The Kodak Retinette 1B is a vintage film camera that has a special place in the hearts of photography enthusiasts. First produced by the German arm of Kodak in 1959, the Retinette 1B was one of the earliest models of 35mm cameras. Its compact size and range of manual controls make it a perfect choice for photographers looking to experiment with film.
One of the standout features of the Kodak Retinette 1B is its F/2.8 45mm lens. This allows for a wide aperture, which is great for shooting in low light conditions or for creating a shallow depth of field. The lens also has a relatively wide focal length, which is perfect for capturing landscapes or street scenes.
While the manual controls on the Kodak Retinette 1B may be intimidating to photographers who are new to film, they are actually quite straightforward to use once you get the hang of them. To change the aperture, you'll need to rotate the black dial on the left side of the camera. The aperture settings can be found on the other side of the camera, so you'll need to take a close look to find the right setting. Adjusting the shutter speed is as simple as turning the dial on the top of the camera.
One thing to keep in mind when using the Kodak Retinette 1B is that you'll need to manually adjust the distance between you and your subject to focus the camera. This is measured in feet, so it's important to be precise. The camera also has a range of arrows on the top that can help you determine the best focus distance for your shot. If you're new to using the Kodak Retinette 1B, it's a good idea to stick to shooting landscapes or urban scenes and avoid shooting portraits until you get a feel for the camera.
In addition to the manual controls, the Kodak Retinette 1B also has a number of other features that can help you get the perfect shot. These include a cable release function for taking photos without touching the camera, a cold shoe for attaching accessories like flash units, and a selenium cell light meter to help you determine the correct exposure settings.
One thing to be aware of when using the Kodak Retinette 1B is that it does not automatically advance to the next frame when you take a picture. This means that you'll need to keep track of which frame you're on manually. It's a good idea to carry some extra rolls of film with you when using this camera, as you never know when you might need them.
There is a self-timer on here that's found at the bottom of the lens. You just pull the element all the way down, and then when you press the shutter and release, it'll count for about 10 seconds, it'll take the shot as well. If you’re big on selfies, then you’re covered. A word of caution, if it's a very old camera it's not been used often, you might find that that function may not fully work.
Overall, the Kodak Retinette 1B is a classic film camera that is perfect for photographers looking to experiment with film. Its manual controls and vintage aesthetic make it a joy to use, and the results are always stunning. Whether you're a seasoned film photographer or new to the medium, the Kodak Retinette 1B is a camera that you won't want to miss.