35mm TLR Film Cameras

A Different Photographic Perspective Using TLR Film Cameras

Designed so that you look down and into the camera, which is on your chest or at hip height, TLR cameras have a unique functionality that makes them appealing to many. They're not only beautiful to look at, but they offer a different photographic experience and hark back to the earliest years of camera technology. In addition to vintage models of twin-lens reflex cameras, you can also find modern twin-lens reflex cameras with a range of different apertures for you to get creative.

What Is a Twin-Lens Reflex Film Camera?

TLR stands for twin-lens reflex, which is a camera that features two objective lenses that have exactly the same focal length. They evolved from double lens cameras developed in the late-19th century, with one of the lenses used to take the photograph and the other used for the viewfinder system.

• Most twin-lens reflex cameras manufactured used a 120 film that gives 12 square images, although you can find some that use 35mm film and 620 film.
• Some TLR cameras have a pop-up magnifying glass that aids in focusing, while others have a sports finder to follow moving subjects.

What Are the Advantages of a Twin-Lens Reflex Camera?

Compared to more modern single-lens reflex cameras (SLRs), twin-lens reflex cameras are mechanically simple and less prone to failure.

• Twin-lens reflex cameras were popular for photographing dancing and other forms of movement as the moment of the picture is taken much closer to the time the shutter releases, reducing shutter lag.
• Because you can hang a twin-lens reflex around your neck and activate it using a cable release, it is popular for candid photography or situations where you need to be discrete.
• The leaf shutter in the lens of twin-lens reflex cameras is relatively quiet compared to those on single-lens reflex cameras.

What Should You Look for When Buying a Twin-Lens Reflex Camera?

One of the first things you should consider when buying a twin-lens reflex camera is the type of film it uses and how readily available it is.

• 35mm TLR cameras are going to be easy to find film for, but when you want to experiment with medium format film, consider a camera that uses 120 film.
• Avoid cameras that use 620 film if you don't want to pay for a custom-made film, as this has been out of production for a number of decades.
• Always check that the shutter still works and test that the blades snap open and close instantly or are sticking through lack of use.