Taking a temporary departure from the essay-like reviews I normally write for my initial thoughts and review on film cameras, I’m trying out a more minimalist approach that focuses on cleaner review comprising of a paragraph-long description, technical specifications, photos of the camera, and sample photos.
Thoughts:
If a minimalist was given a choice of film cameras, the Agfa Optima Electronic Sensor range would be high on their list. This is a beautifully designed film camera with clean lines, a heavenly large viewfinder, a near-perfect film advance lever, and that beautiful red shutter button. The few buttons and switches are all in the right places. This camera is an artform in itself. The camera operates with ease, the functionality is easy to get used to, and the performance, when done right, can result in some beautifully-framed shots.
Specifications:
Type: 35mm film viewfinder camera introduced in 1976 by Agfa and is part of the Agfa Optima Sensor series.
Lens: Solitar f2,8/40mm lens with 4 elements; single-coated.
Diaphragm: Automatic; f/2.8 to f/22.
Shutter: Paratronic with speeds 1/15-1/500.
Focus: Manual with pictograms and top and meter/feet scale on the bottom of the focus ring; focusing from 3ft/1.09m to infinity.
Viewfinder: Large finder with parallax marks for near focus.
Film loading style: Manual
Film advance: Manual single-strong lever with a ‘R’ button to rewind the film when pressed down and turned.
Film speeds: 25-500 ASA.
Flash: None but hot-shoe with flash selected in focus ring.
Cable release socket: Located on left side of the camera.
Tripod: Located on right side which is also used as a socket for a camera strap.
Case: Leather with camera strap socket hole.
Photos:
Test shots:
Film used: Kodak Ultramax 400
