The Blackbird Camera from superheadz is a twin-lens reflex camera: one lens is used to expose the film, while the other is used like a viewfinder. This style of camera which goes back to the 1920s, typically uses larger 120 format film. The blackbird, fly uses 35mm film – which can be processed at any one-hour photo store. You can get one for $125 from UrbanOutfitters.
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I’ve been eyeballing these for a while, but I think they’re too expensive for what they are, like most of the “hipster” cameras offered for sale at Urban Outfitters.
I tend to agree on that… while the idea of a 35mm TLR is interesting, this one seems to be aimed at the “make photographic art with a ‘toy’ camera” end of things so I’m not sure what you get out of its unique design that would make it worth over $100. (Especially considering that an entry level medium format TLR, with far more flexibility in exposure control, can be had for $159…)
Rob,
The one that comes to my mind is the Seagull. It’s a cool little camera.
One could also purchase a used Voigtlander Brillant, Yashicamat, or Rolleiflex for probably around the same money or less.
To me, medium format is the way to go. I would think the hipsters that use these kinds of cameras would know how to hand-develop black and white film anyway, and it’s very easy to drop off medium format color film at any wal-mart for send-off service.
I recently bought a rolleicord Vb in a camera store for 95 dollars and the images off it are stunning. these are toys. go play. bring your wallet. have fun.
Or get after it with 120 film, gorgeous images, and get creative for real, not just hippy funky cool creative, but for real