I Wrote and Published an Art Book

Well, I did something that even surprised myself. I wrote a book.

Okay, it’s technically an art book that covers the initial stages of my preproduction phase of my current 2D-animated augmented reality experience called Lens (AR): The Future. The name isn’t the most creative but I’m pretty proud of what I’ve been able to create. The book printing aspect was completely optional but seeing it in person existing as a physical copy even with its own ISBN is something pretty special.

I could literally write a novel and be able to publish it.

You can preview and purchase the book on Blurb by clicking on the ‘Source’ link below.

The Minimalist's Film Camera - Initial Thoughts on the Agfa Optima 535 Electronic Sensor

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

Lomo-view with the Lubitel 2 - A Simple Review of the ‘Amateur’ Medium Format TLR Camera

Is this a toy? No. For starters, this is a fully mechanical and manual twin lens reflex camera. In fact, the word ‘lubitel’ translated to amateur. The name implies this camera can be wielded by anyone, even a kid! In all honesty, I was a little underwhelmed when I first held the Lubitel 2 but hear me out first. Here was a camera that’s made to look like a toy with its plastic build and simple mechanics and operation. The plastic body may not be to the standards that others might want to feel in the camera, that high-quality ruggedness and sturdiness. However, wielding this camera somehow makes me feel like I’m not afraid to get a bit extra adventurous with it. It’s incredibly light. The operation is extremely simple but effective. It’s also a pretty decent-looking camera! I’m used to the complex number of knobs, flicks and switches of other TLRs and SLRs cameras I have that it made me feel rather lost when holding the Lubitel 2. However, I was too curious to witness for myself the impressive performance that this camera so discreetly tried to hide. The time has come for me to dive in to this.

I purchased my Lubitel 2 for just AU $50 off a local seller on eBay. It arrived safely and was packed well (thank you, seller!). You’ll find plenty of these Lubitel cameras on online shopping sites along with more popular and more advanced Lubitel 166B. I’ve found the prices have varied but usually range upwards of AU$100. I was pretty lucky that I scored mine at half that amount. Otherwise, I would have probably not gone out of my way to buy this camera just because I already had two other TLRs - the Yashica 635 and the Rolleicord III. I’m glad I found this camera at such a cheap price because I wouldn’t have paid any more for it due to a few quirks that I wasn’t too keen about.

Upon further inspection, there was a fairly large piece of the side of the camera missing. However, this was hidden when the door was latched on. In my film roll test, this proved to be no issue and there were no light leaks. I was very lucky with that. The film door itself does feel quite flimsy but does lock into place firmly. Again, I shouldn’t be expecting too much out of this camera given it’s overall plastic-build. If there was one thing I really appreciated about this camera, it was how easy and light to carry it around. I was even happy to throw this in my bag but I would recommend keeping it in its intended case or away from sharp objects like your keys!

On the film door is a red-coloured little window that allows you to see the film number printed on the back of the roll. By forwarding the advance film knob, all you need to do is to stop when you see the number shows up in the window. Unlike other TLRs that I’ve used where the film advance knob will automatically stop when the next shot is ready, you’ll need to rely on your eyesight and good light to be able to see the number. While it may depend on the film roll brand you use, but I struggled so much with being able to see the number through that red-tinted window. As a result, I lost maybe around four shots due to this. A tip: make sure you are in direct light to see the number, otherwise you’ll most likely lose out on a few shots.

Opening up the viewfinder, I was welcomed with a ghastly sight of a scratched up magnifier and dirty glass that reflected a rather awful and mould-infested mirror. Given how old this camera and years of storage it might have had, I was unsurprised by the usual dirt and grime that comes with these older film cameras. However, mould had taken over the mirror. I could see it through the viewfinder. I had a bad feeling that the mirror was beyond hopes of repair. And I was right.

Firstly, I dismantled the top of the viewfinder, which was fairly straightforward by unscrewing three screws semi-hidden on the sides and on the bottom. After unscrewing them, I was able to remove the top part of the viewfinder to gain access to the glass and the mirror. I was hoping that a little and gentle clean with isopropyl alcohol will remove the mould or whatever it was it looked like on the mirror. Sadly, this proved to be the wrong move. The reflective covering rubbed off in my attempts to gently wipe it off. The mirror quality on these cameras were pretty sub-par and not like those you find on other SLR cameras. As a result, I ended up having to toss away the mould-decorated mirror and bought a pack of new ones at the craft store. I can’t say if the original mirror had any particularly special about it, but at this stage I couldn’t tell. Swapping out the mirror with a new square-shaped one from the craft store did work. Now, I can clearly see through the viewfinder. If your Lubitel 2 camera comes with a dirty mirror that’s beyond repair, this is a fairly easy fix. Other than the mirror, there was just a lot of grime and dust internally. I washed the thick glass part with lukewarm water and gentle dishwashing liquid and wiped away the dust and grime with the help of a Q-tip and microfibre cloth. I think I had to do this several times before I felt comfortable with the fact that this camera was in an acceptable condition. Other than the mouldy mirror, the scratched magnifier, the internal dirt and grime, the annoying red tinted window making the film forwarding process difficult unless you are under direct light, I pushed forward with making this camera good enough to use again.

The same thing could be said with the case. Either this camera has seen its fair bit of use, which is great, or the years haven’t faired so well on the material. The case can still be used and, surprisingly, there is no mouldy smell! However, you’ll probably not see me swinging this case around so candidly. I’m afraid the strap might break!

After a clean and overhaul, the camera is now workable! Not that it wasn’t to begin with but the state and condition it was in would have made the experience rather unenjoyable. See that clean and shiny glass?

The question now: how does the camera perform and did the film roll test go? I decided to use a roll of Kodak T-Max 400 but didn’t realise that B&W development normally takes longer and is more expensive than regular C-41 developing. Well, now I know! One thing I found common in all of the reviews I read about this camera was how decent and sharp the lens performed. I had lost a fair few shots due to the issue I had with the red window viewer. In the ones that were successful and despite one of them being underexposed, the photos turned out sharper and clearer than I thought! For a camera that’s made to feel like a toy and operation so simple and basic, I was truly surprised. It is sharp for what we get at face-value. It was easy to compose my shots. While it was a bit hard to clearly see what was in focus due to the scratched magnifier and the spot-focus on the glass, it was easy to compose my shots especially for scenes that were set at infinity. One thing I did find was how easy it was to accidentally hit the shutter when cocked. The shutter is a small little switch that’s incredibly sensitive. I think this was another reason why I had lost a few shots. Other than that, I found the overall lightness made my composition strangely easier and quicker to do than my heavy ones. I used to think using heavier cameras helped with stability, but it was different with the Lubitel 2. Perhaps it was because of the lack of knobs and levers to change this and that setting that made it just that easier to use. Like using a point-and-shoot camera, I felt liberated with using this camera because I felt like I could spend more time composing scenes without having to worry about changing so many other settings. To summarise:

Pros:
- Incredibly easy and light to use and carry around.
- Although the body is plastic-build, it is sturdy.
- The limited amount of settings makes it easy to operate (this may be a good or bad thing for some)
- The lens quality is sharp and you will get pretty nice shots when shooting under good and bright-lit settings.
- These cameras can still be bought for a cheap price. Be warned, you pay what you get.
- This is an inexpensive and fun way to get into medium format TLR cameras as a casual hobby! The films and developing costs will be what costs more in the long run.

Cons:
- The quality of the camera is not that great and is probably a reason why you can get this camera for cheap.
- If you’re after a fully manual experience with various settings like mirror lock-up, multiple exposures, you’re best looking at other TLRs from Yashica, Mamiya, Rolleicord, etc.

The amount of time I spent on the overhaul and cleaning was because of the years of use and eventual storage. Other than that, I cannot fault this on the camera’s quality itself. While I my initial impressions were really less than impressive, I’m thoroughly surprised and happy with the Lubitel 2 overall. For any one that wants a simple-to-use TLR, this is a good option to go for. This may not necessarily be a first choice for those wanting to try medium format because I assume those who want to try this format are already experienced with 35mm and are wanting a bigger format to shoot with. When used in favourable lighting and when wanting to use a casual medium format TLR with little bells and whistles needed, I don’t think you can go wrong with this fun little camera.

I am Titanium! - Initial Thoughts on the World's Most Advanced Point-and-Shoot Camera, the Nikon 35Ti

While I’ve been busy in the typosphere and socialising with fellow typospherians in the virtual world of the internet, I’ve recently come upon an opportune chance to purchase a Nikon F2 - and I managed to negotiate a good price for it. After looking at my previous entry posts, I realised I didn’t post anything about one of my Nikon cameras, the titanium-clad Nikon 35Ti. Hence, the opportune moment arises for me to actually review the photos that I had taken quite some time ago and had full intent to post… but eventually forgot to do. Let’s start with a few photos to get the ions working.

Now you’ve got to take a minute to admire the sheer craft and technical sophistication that is unsurprisingly of Nikon. First off, a round of applause is well-deserved. The Nikon 35Ti has mostly been sparred against the Contaxt T2/T3 as both have just the same number of advanced options available on a point-and-shoot camera. Now, I don’t have enough money to purchase a Contax T2 or T3 so I cannot allude to their performance. But I don’t doubt all the wonderful things I’ve heard about the Contax T series in general. I do own a Contax G1 rangefinder camera and it was my main go-to for a couple of years before I started to explore other cameras.  Let’s go back to the Nikon 35Ti. While some people may not be the biggest fan of its boxy look, it is still a beautiful gem to behold. From the looks alone, you can tell the premium build that this camera has been given. It is solid and reassuring to hold. The leatherette covering makes it feel steady and safe to hold for those with sweaty palms. No more broken film cameras from a lack of a strong grip! I have only just run a couple of rolls on this camera, but I think I have enough experience with the Nikon 35Ti to give my initial thoughts on – the goods and the bads.

Without going too technical here, there’s a quite few neat and especially impressive features that makes this camera such a overachiever for all the good reasons. While not a fully fleshed-out one, this camera has Nikon’s 3D matrix metering system. What this means is that it measures exposure instead of light. The Nikon 35Ti also has one of the most insanely sharp lenses on a compact point-and-shoot camera. I don’t recall any of my photos being out-of-focus. In fact, the autofocus was spot-on every single time. The camera didn’t struggle with it. I believe you can shoot manual focus, but I don’t even think why I’d bother with manual focus when the autofocus works so well - too well! One of the most unique features that this camera has – and I think one of its strongest selling points but the usability of it is still questionable – is the beautiful analog display system at the top of the camera. It’s like looking at an Omega Seamaster dial that’s been slapped onto a Nikon camera. While some may think it’s not as practical because of the fact that you’d have to take yourself away from the viewfinder just to look at what the settings are, but I do like it for its functionality as an advanced compact camera. I think it would be handy for night photography and I’ve some beautiful shots taken with this camera. The analog display system shows you everything you need to know in a very clear and concise manner and I like it a lot.

My only gripe with this camera is the tiny button for a flash that I have to press and hold down every time I want to stop the flash from firing. There are instructions on how to disable the flash by inputting some sort of binary code but I don’t know if this resets every time I turn the camera off and on again. I have pretty small fingers but I find it quite cumbersome to have to hold down that iddy bitty button every single time. I normally don’t use flash in a lot of my photography so I’m not too pleased about this. Had they made a bigger button or made it a toggle on/off situation, it will tick the boxes of a lot more people. Another little thing which doesn’t really bother me but may bother others who like their quieter cameras is how the lens noisily extends and retracts via electric motors. It’s a tad bit clunky for such a small thing.

The Nikon 35Ti matrix metering system, crazily sharp lens, titanium build, and unique analog display system makes it one of the finest choices for an advanced/premium/top-quality/top-of-the-line/insanely-priced-but-for-good reason point-and-shoot camera. It’s an expensive camera and you will definitely be able to get cheaper alternatives that may not necessarily have all the whistles and bells like this one does but will still give you some damn good performances. It is sort of like a middle-man between a very basic point-and-shoot and a manual SLR camera. Whether you need that in-between option is entirely up you. It’s a fantastic camera and heads will be turning because of that beautiful analog display.

Quirky QWERTY - Retail Therapy? Get A Typewriter

One more hour to go before I finish work for the day. It's hard to ignore that small clock on the bottom right corner of one's computer screen. For something so small, it can incite a lot of anxiety. Okay, breathe. I need to focus on getting work done. I can't afford to let work pile up. I switch on my headphones and plonk it around my ears. I open Spotify and select a playlist with lots of energetic beats and the occasional belting that still carries a tune. Noise-cancelling mode, here we go! One hour later, I stop my music, switch off my headphones and close my laptop. I'm finished for the day! Pleased with myself for my determination in the last hour, I swivel to my right where my work bench connects to my main work desk and there it is, gleaming at me as if it was smiling. It's my typewriter.

I don’t have experience with more popular, medium-sized typewriters like the Olympia SM3, the Smith Corona Stirling Silent and Super Silent variant, the Underwood Champions, and that coveted Hermes 3000 that’s on my bucket list. However, I have collected four portable typewriters and I can already tell, feel and describe the differences. I now understand why people get so hooked on buying typewriters now. Not only is it a great collecting hobby like collecting film cameras, it’s the journey of finding the one that feels right for you. I’ve had someone compare a typewriter to a computer keyboard - let’s not even go there. I’m starting to understand that it is a search for the one typewriter that truly connects you to your typewritten story by giving you a contraption that speaks to you - or your fingers. It’s the same relationship I have with cameras where, from a broad perspective, a camera can take a photo. But the journey involves whether you’re using a point-and-shoot camera or a medium-format camera. It can depend on the film you use. So many variables to take into account. Why must I be so fascinated in an expensive hobby?

Recently, I’ve been doing therapeutic typewriting sessions every Wednesday after work. It’s a great time for me to relax after the working day and to give my typewriters the attention they need. I’ve really enjoyed the slowed-down process of typewriting on fascinating contraptions that have, once again, stood the test of time. As I’m constantly focused and concentrating on tasks at work, typewriting let’s my mind rest and wander. With a stack of paper next to me, I could write the next bestselling novel for young adults!

This is the Olympia Splendid 33. For something so small, it weighs heavier than my other typewriters. It rarely slides when I type. The carriage shift is a hefty task for my little finger. When I was still practicing my typing, my left little finger would occasionally slip because it landed on the corner of the key and would eventually slip. Again, this is another difference I’ve come to learn is quite common in the Olympia typewriters. Some people say it’s almost a cumbersome effort to lift that carriage and, even more, when that carriage comes crashing back down. In my case, it’s a smaller typewriter and it has a heavy carriage shift. It doesn’t get in the way of momentum, regardless. The typing experience is also quite different from, let’s say, the Hermes Baby typewriter. My Hermes Baby typewriter types with a spongey but sharp feel but a a satisfying shack-shack sound of the slugs when they hit the paper. It has a lighter but quick typing experience. The Olympia Splendid 33 feels like more force is needed to strike the keys. It almost feels like the slugs are also shorter. It feels like you don’t need to push down all the way but the key tensions seems to be tight enough for you to want to put some effort in typing. However, the result is quite wonderful as it has a high-pitched but really snappy snuck-snuck sound to it. I feel this would compare somewhat to the typing experience on a medium-sized typewriter. Whenever I type on the Hermes Baby, I sometimes find myself slightly preferring the typing feel of the Olympia Splendid 33. I don’t know what it is and I love my Hermes Baby typewriter. The Olympia Splendid 33 has a wonderful typing feel that feels really snappy and will compare to the bigger typewriter that are intended for desk and not travel.

I bought this typewriter off Facebook Marketplace from a person in South Australia. Upon its timely arrival, it was in a good condition that required quite a bit of cleaning and several sunbaking sessions to try and kill that mould smell. However, the back sections where the case connects has rusted. I feel like this typewriter must have gone through a flood or something similar. I figured the typewriter must have been in a standing position which is why the bottom part is the only section that’s rusted. It took me some time to clean the internal sections. Armed with a crappy paint brush with thick bristles, cotton buds, cloth and rubbing alcohol, I managed to get this to a good-looking condition. I have plans to try and remove some of that rust, but that will probably have to wait for the weekend.

The only other gripe I have with this typewriter as it would have been made it perfect is the missing ‘Z’ slug. The seller failed to mention this in the description. When I asked him about it, he said even he wasn’t aware of it as it had belonged to his mother. I think to myself, “Hey, at least it’s not one of the more popular letters.” I seldom use the letter word ‘z’ but it’s an inconvenience. I can’t type cool words like my name, jazz, zoo, zoomies, zipper, etc. I’ve learned to live with it but it has made me want to look for another same model. So far, I haven’t been able to come across a Splendid 33 with the same colour scheme. I should be happy with what I’ve got, right?

Type-à-tête - The Olympia Splendid 33 Typewriter

A jazzy preview of the new addition to my small but growing collection of typewriters - the Olympia Splendid 33.

Quirky QWERTY - My Non-QWERTY Hermes Baby Typewriter

Now I can’t recall what it is exactly that made me suddenly want to own one, but the idea came across my mind about a month ago. I knew it was the beginning of something beautiful. Three typewriters later, I am a happy bygone-era hunter and quite satisfied with my small and oh-so-ultraportable haul so far.

My favourite, by far, is my quirky non-QWERTY Hermes Baby typewriter. My version is from the mid-to-late 1950s. It boasts the beautiful sea-foam green keys and lovely mint-coloured crinkle paint. It comes with a cover that doubles as a carry-case with a handle. I had to fix the handle because the previous owner had patched up what looked like a broken handle but it was no longer resting straight once it was locked in place. Plus, the brown goo or whatever variant of glue used was not visually appealing at all. Something had to be done. It took a bit of time but I was able to re-break the handle but patch it up again with super glue. I did wipe off a bit of the colour so the area near the handles look a bit faded but not noticeable.

Initial inspection: The body was a bit dirty, probably from the hands smeared with ribbon ink and God-knows-what-else that handled this little baby over the years.

Initial inspection: Can you handle it? ‘Cause I don’t think it can.

Initial inspection: The keys are alright and will be easy to clean one-by-one.

This typewriter is also quite light and fairly easy to carry around - living up to its ultraportable name. I simply slide it into my backpack and it fits comfortably. Despite the dust, cobwebs, fluff and occasional hair I had to flush with air cleaner out of the interior from all the years of being tucked away in storage, the previous owner did a good job taking care of it over the years.

After: I think it cleaned up really nicely (and yes, they’re my sloth slippers, thank you).

My quirky typewriter has a Latvian alphabet, hence a QWERTZ keyboard. It’s an enjoyable difference to type with it. I have to be aware of where the letter ‘Z’ is positioned and that little warning flash alerts me to remind myself that ‘Z’ is where the ‘Y’ is at and that’s that. But you can't help it when you're on a roll and your fingers can’t keep up with your head. The ribbon doesn’t turn when the side latches holding the spools are locked down in place. It’s most likely blocked by the latch but I don't want to try fixing it in case I might exacerbate it. I think I'll leave it the way it is. Nothing wrong with giving that ribbon some breathing space. I like the short and sharp punchy thuck-thuck sound it makes when the typebar hits the paper. It’s short and sweet and reminds me to be concise with what I’m saying.

Oh, that beautiful sound.

Just imagine, the keyboard we use on our PC, laptop, tablet, and smartphone were all a culmination of the history of the typewriter. Thank you, Mr. Scholes and Glidden, for making the very first commercially successful typewriter. They are the founders of how written communication has evolved and changed the way we write, send, share and read information today. I would also like to thank Tom Hanks for introducing me to the Hermes typewriter brand. Thanks, Hanx!

May with Film - Logo-dentity

I’ve finally created my brand-spanking new logo for my website. Not only is it a logo, but it’s an animated one, too! While not perfect, it’s another step in the unveiling of my vision board. I wanted to put a lot of myself into the logo. I thought about revolving around the image of a camera. And that’s what I did for a long time. As I’ve given myself more time to explore, focus, observe, and dabble into what I see through the camera lens, the end-product is, really, my perspective of what and how I see things. It’s a unique view because it’s my own - and I’d like to think I'm a unique creature of this world.

How did I create my logo design? You know it. I went back to basics and put pencil to paper. While digital illustration’s opened up some many exciting new artistic ways to design, I can't but help that that genuine feel of pencil scratching on white drawing paper is a feeling that cannot be authentically and truly replicated. Technology can come close and our minds can tell us to think it is as good as the real thing. But it’s still not the same. Or at least I’m being a bit too old-school. Afterwards, I transferred the physical sketch to Procreate, the drawing application I use on an iPad Air (4th generation) with an Apple Pencil 2 (and a really cute pastel pink silicon case to protect the pencils super clean and dirt-magnetic exterior). I traced the sketch onto a screen-sized canvas. Once that was all done and I had my completed sketch converted digitally, I transformed my art with colour and animation.

During this part of the drawing process, I felt like I created over fifty layers for this small part of sketch for me to realise I wouldn't be able to get it to animate or move seamlessly enough. I think i went through this thought process at least twenty times. I know what I'll need to improve on next time - efficiency. The animation was particularly tricky to get the hang of because each part that you wanted to move had to be drawn in its own layer. Once that was done, I had to go through trial-and-error and see if it actually looked good translating to animation. The animation segment was straightforward as long as you got the layers right. This was the really fun part because it gave me the chance to really know what it’s like to draw simplified 2D animation. After a few settings were tweaked and, several adjustments and replays and more adjustments, I finally had a finished product. A really cool thing about the Procreate application. I use is that it automatically creates a time-lapse video of your progress, which allows you to watch your progress in the entire process. You can even save a copy for your unashamed replays. I’m really glad that I've the tools I need to be able to create and explore art through a device that's accessible and portable. Check it out in my brand-spanking new YouTube channel below:

7 Frames - The Grand Budapest Hotel

Why not eight? Why not six? Elizabeth Hurley throws the question back to Brendan Fraser’s character when he asks her why he only get seven wishes in the comedy Bedazzled. Why seven frames? In one of my previous posts, I had the extravagant idea of wanting to write a review as well as capture my favourite screenshots from all of Wes Anderson's movies. Why Wes Anderson, you ask? Coupled with genius cinematographer Robert David Yeoman, this duo creates some of the visually pleasing, perspective-tickling and angle-galore camera work and, yeah, cinematography. This is the kind of visual aesthetic I've aimed to capture in my own film photography. I’m so happy that I have an inspiring collection of works by these two geniuses to dive into and watch how they do it so well. Going back to my ambitious plan, I have to admit the writing part takes the longest. In another way, it doesn’t seem to align with what my website is all about and that's really showcasing my portfolio, achievements and visual aesthetics that inspire my work. Instead, my plan is to select seven of my favourite scenes from each Wes Anderson movie chosen in no particular order. More so chosen on which one is my favourite and working my way down the list. With those seven frames, I will aim to replicate those scenes in my own photography using things I see around me and nearby places. It will be an achievable and fun challenge where I can hopefully see myself improve. I will aim to set realistic but spaced deadlines for when they are started and finished. For the time being, let’s get started with The Grand Budapest Hotel.

The Grand Budapest Hotel is a visual treat for sweet-lovers. It is also a comedic tragedy that uses an alternate past, an establishment, and a few loveable characters to explore deeply emotion ideas in humanity. Any fan of Wes Anderson’s work will find all the distinct direction, style, cinematography and character development present in this film. However, The Grand Budapest Hotel takes it up a notch. It creates a fictional past that’s not so different from our historical past that makes it incredibly relatable and poignant. The main hero, M. Gustave H., is an incredibly admirable character that stays true to his principles from start to finish. I wonder if I will ever meet someone like M. Gustave H. in my lifetime.

The movie primarily takes place in, you named it, The Grand Budapest Hotel, a highly reputable institution filled with cultured guests of a certain privileged class who frequent the establishment. The story is told in a framed perspective by Zero who, in his late years, confides his story and the wonderful story that takes place at The Grand Budapest Hotel. When Zero takes up the new lobby role at the hotel, he is taken under tutelage of Monsieur Gustave H. who oversees the operations of hotels. They try and solve the murder mystery of one of the guests of the hotel, which leads to train rides, escaping from prison, a sled chase through snowy alps, and the theft of a rather expensive painting. It is the story of a story of a story, and it’s beautifully executed an almost nostalgic way as if you’ve known those characters in some way.

Note, I did write up almost half the review before realising I could go on and on for hours and write a critical analysis the selected film. I will make the choise of writing a succinct paragraph-long review of them or not at all. Let’s not be harsh on ourselves and roll on o the next paragraph.

The story is told by an older Zero, played by F. Murray Abraham, who oversees the narration of the story in an enchantingly bittersweet manner. The story is told to a young writer, aptly named the Author, and is played by Jude Law and later played by Tom Wilkinson. A much younger Zero by Tony Revolori, who start employment at The Grand Budapest Hotel as a lobby boy, is taken under the wing of Monsieur Gustave H. and becomes his confidante and accompanies him on all the adventures. Ralph Fiennes brings an effortless charm in his fantastic portrayal of Monsieur Gustave H., the renowned concierge of the Grand Budapest Hotel, meticulous in his work and anticipates the needs of guests before guests are even aware of it. Upon the mysterious death of the one of the hotel’s frequented guests, Madam D., son, Dimitri, played by Adrien Brody, a recurring cast member in several of Wes Anderson’s films, does whatever it takes to make sure that Monsieur Gustave H. has no part in the will with the assistance of Willem Defoe’s character Jopling, Dimitri’s hired assassin. Gustave and Zero’s adventures include the help of Zero’s love interest who is an apprentice at Mendl’s named Agatha, played by Saoirse Ronan, and has a distinct scar on her left cheek. Edward Norton, another regular name in Wes Anderson’s films, plays the police investigator of Madame D.’s murder as well as well as French actor Matthieu Amalric who plays the shifty butler of Madame. D. Other enjoyable cameos to see include Bill Murray, Jason Schwartzman, Owen Wilson, and Léa Seydoux. The Grand Budapest Hotel is another star-studded group of talented actors, some of whom have recurring roles in Anderson’s other great films. While refreshing to see new faces and names on the silver screen, it’s also just as pleasing to see when a director continues to work with the same group of actors because something just seems to work and that translates and is evident in the end-product.

Watching the film is like opening a present only to find another present waiting inside, and when you unwrap that present you find yet another present. The story’s telling is unravelled in a similar manner and its execution is top-notch from a director’s already-great story-telling technique.

All screenshots are from the film The Grand Budapest Hotel, directed by Wes Anderson, Foxlight Search Picture, 2014.

August with Film - Five Frames with Wes Anderson

“You know how I think better in the shower, get all those positive ions flowing.” Owen Wilson’s character Gil says this to his fiancé, Inez, played by Rachel McAdams in Midnight in Paris. I wholeheartedly agree with this statement. It’s true. God knows how many ground-breaking, life-changing decisions have been thought of or revolutionary ideas that have sparked whilst being dowsed by hot water. For I had just this happen to me.

Recently, I’ve been on a roll with film photography. It’s probably one thing I do almost every single day: read and research about film cameras that have become cult classics, why they’ve amassed a fandom of dedicated film enthusiasts nostalgic for the grain and not the pixel, and if I want to be a part of than fandom and relive it for myself. Within the last ten years I’d say, there’s been a strong resurgence in film photography and enthusiasts alike. I’m one of them.

I grew up having my photos taken by my parents, mostly by my Mum and the Minolta 5000 Maxxum. To this day, I see these photos and I still see the richness of the colours, the clarity of photo, the careful alignment of subjects against backdrop. The meticulous process of taking a photograph has become non-existent. This is the process I have fun with the most. Like most of those getting into film photography, we can all agree that film photography allows us to breath with the process, to live in the moment, to observe, analyse, and snap the moment. It makes us expert observers. Film is limited to 24 or 36 shots and it shouldn’t be wasted on multiple shots of the same subject, but instead the one almost-perfect one.

A director that evokes nostalgia in such visually eye-pleasing colours and perspective with the recognisable lateral panning cinematography work of Robert Yeoman is the genius that is Wes Anderson. My photography work leans heavily on colour, lines and perspective. I tend to shoot subjects like buildings and structures that won’t object to my photo-taking. I still find it hard to take photos of people, another thing I can develop and get more confidence (but for another time). It will be a great experience to work on a project where I choose a select number - at this stage, it’s five - of favourite frames or scenes from key Wes Anderson movies, discuss them in further, and then aim to take photographs similar to or inspired by each frame. It’s sort of recreating Wes Anderson but using what I have within access and within reach. Melbourne’s got the goods so why not?

I haven’t really thought about what the timeframe will look like but it will essentially look like a weekly post of the review. What will make it rather challenging will be to get the time and opportunity to shoot photos and develop them. Until lockdown has been lifted and shops are back in business, there will very limited chances to get out. However, it will be a good chance to take photos while there’s barely anyone to have to deal with. As long as the review is completed and the photos taken, I can probably jump on to the next movie. Like jumping from moving train to another, it will a rocky ride with unpredictable results and that’s something I’m excited about.

To end with a quote I really liked because it summed up just how likeable and gracious this character to have graced the silver screen in a long time is Mr. Moustafa’s beautiful statement regarding M. Gustave H.: “There are still faint glimmers of civilisation left in this barbaric slaughterhouse that was once known as humanity... He was one of them. What more is there to say?”

Feature - I Travel Between Quiet Train Stations... in COVID times on FilmNeverDie

I used to loathe taking public transport during peak hours. An office worker who abides by the 9-5 regimen and has no choice but to join the sardine nation and squeeze in. it was almost always terrible and I used to get to work and start the day already grumbling by how unpleasant commuting was then. These days, train stations are almost always empty except for the new normal peak hour, which resembles the number of people taking public transport at 5 o’clock in the morning. Trains are almost always on time. I am able to easy isolate myself from anyone else and can usually score a carriage all to myself for those essential trips. It really does feel like I’m hoping between empty stations and being able to appreciate the small details in their architecture. I most certainly will add this to my stories.

Feature - Isolation Film Photography Challenge

Isolation has brought me home these days, and I am friends with time and my camera again. I became fascinated with film for its effortless capability to take photos with creamy tones, inviting warm hues, fluorescent greens and yellows, and pastel blues and greens. Subdued colours yet they reflect richness and sharpness at the same time. I find inspiration from the colours of certain subjects – namely natural light, wheat fields, flowers, animals, knitwear, boots, and pastry. I use this palette as a basis for my photography. For my series, I am expressing a feeling of contentment and serenity. I focused on what I saw at my most comfortable and relaxed. My subjects were autumn leaves and my dog, Maya. Both were well-behaved and happy to have me around more often.

Light Bulb Ideas - Square Dance with Medium-Format

Isolating and working from home, not having to waste time commuting on public transport to and from work, and planning to work out whenever it suits me has freed up so much of my time. I now have time - yes, time - to dabble in my creative research and projects and medium-format cameras have been on that list for a long time. For $300 bucks, I scored myself a well looked-after, second-hand Yashica 635, a twin-lens reflex medium-format camera made in the 1960s that not only shoots 120mm but also 35mm! How versatile is that for a half-a century year-old camera that’s lasted this long and looks like it’s still going strong for a good few years? While the square type film and viewfinder will appeal to instagrammers, there is something quite beautiful about a square image. While I don’t think this format suits landscape photography, I think it will be brilliant for non-moving subjects, flowers, stationary objects, architecture, and things that will allow you time to compose and shoot. Although I’d love to take photos of my dog, Maya, I may have to wait until she’s asleep - the only time I can have her sit still.

December with Film - The End of a Decade

The 1920s is one of my favourite decades for the music, the dancing, some new-found freedom for women at that place in time, and a new age of modern art. When I started focusing heavily on fine and visual arts during my years 11 and 12, I was constantly inspired by the 1920s, and focused on topics such as flappers and lamps and art deco architecture. It was the period I wanted to explore further through, not just art itself, but also through other mediums like music, films, books and the famous celebrities of the time. I like to think it was where pop culture was truly born. Although things weren't as jolly and it was a time of the Great Depression, I find that the wilder side of the Jazz Age amusingly juxtaposes the deep economic crisis everyone felt. When life gives you lemon, make lemonade. That’s why 2020 is an especially important one for me. It marks one hundred years after my favourite decade so I feel I must honour it by reconnecting with what brought me to the 1920s - through art.

The festive season is upon us! The smell of real Christmas trees, baubles and nutcrackers appearing everywhere, the shopping madness that involves food and gifts and Christmas wrappings. The holidays seem to be so stressful and chaotic, but its festive remains. The mad rush everyone goes through is a fun subject to capture on film.

It’s also a time of self-reflection and look back warmly on the achievements and little milestones in my photography journey. I’ve successfully managed to keep a website running for a whole year! It’s been a real joy to see my own work displayed on a platform that’s easily accessible to anyone. I now have a digital portfolio of my work, which is something I’ve always wanted to be able to spend time to create. As I scroll through the photos I’ve published online, I see trends and styles that constantly appear, and it makes me get to know myself better. Now, I’ve pinpointed the kind of shots I’m after and how I want to frame the shot to be able to tell the story the way I see it. It’s nothing ground-breaking, but it helps me to get to my niche way of photography. I’m finding a bit more of myself throughout this journey and it's a fulfilling feeling. It brings me joy and I'm sure the joy I feel is felt amongst others (at least I hope it does).

Photography has slowly reconnected me with my creative side. As part of Christmas presents, I sketched each member of the family in a Chibi anime style, and everyone loved it. If I can get back to sketching and make it a healthy and regular habit, I will be able to have a portfolio of sketches in no time. Every time I draw makes me draw better. I’ve also started reading again, although the progress is a bit slower than I’d like. The holidays really gives me the time I need to be able to do these creative projects that are time consuming. The holidays’ gift to me is, literally, time. Whenever I draw, I get so engrossed in the process of what I’m creating and I love that feeling that I am creating something out of nothing and that the end-product is something I can enjoy. I’ve got all the tools I need. All I need is to be friends with time and for time to work with me. A positive mindset is my new mantra - work with what I have, work to my best abilities, learn and try again. These are the things I will constantly remind myself, all with a positive mindset.

A new decade dawns upon us. Like the Roaring 20’s, we should celebrate with a swing in our hips and the beat in our feet and Charleston our way to 2020. To tell myself to do more photography and drawing this year is exciting and empowering. I am responsible for my content and my creation. As my yoga instructor’s quote of the day demonstrates, keep your eyes on the stars and your feet on the ground.

Light Bulb Ideas - 52 Rolls

This year is drawing to a close. That means this website is almost a year old! While I’ll save all my reflections and thoughts on this in another post, I feel a sense of accomplishment overall.

Running a website was my year-long project. I’m close to ticking that off on a high note. What next? A photo project makes absolute perfect sense, am I right? I haven’t really put too much thought in it nor have I done any extensive research. I stumbled across this idea when I was researching on film photography-related websites to follow to be able to find various channels to help continuous flow of film-related ideas. In a list of websites, I read one about 52 roll where one attempts to use a roll of film every week for a year. The project challenges the creativity process - when you’re on creativity overdrive and when you’re a blank slate - while learning better techniques, better ways to handle your camera(s) and many more good things. It’s a bit daunting to think that I have to use up a roll of film every week for an entire year. Could I, perhaps, shorten it to six months? Could I stretch it out to a roll of film every two weeks given my full-time work? In addition to shooting film, developing and scanning photos, there’s also the blogging aspect. Time and me have to find a way to work together.

Well, this is one idea at least.

November with Film - Documenting PAX Australia with a Film Camera

It’s 4:30am on a Wednesday morning and I have three more hours to go before my alarm goes off and to start getting ready for work. At this rate, I don’t think I’ll be able to go. To give you a brief context, I picked a bad cough which turned into a throat infection a week ago. Last Saturday, I lost my voice completely and have been struggling to get it back. For the past three consecutive nights, I’ve been having sleepless nights due to a persistent and stubborn dry cough. Heck, I’ve had to buy a triple-action cough suppressant syrup and even that’s not helping in addition to the honey and lemon combo remedy and the countless throat lozenges I’ve had to help me last through the day. So, that’s that. Enough of me. It’s time to start recounting all the exciting things I got to see at my second PAX Australia event.

Three days of non-stop immersion, curiosity, and cyberpunk realness - as well as a heck load of walking. My smartphone picked up at least 25,000 steps within the 4-5 hours of walking I did at the event. This is what PAX was and is about. Spread over three glorious days, is a series of gaming culture festivals that started in Seattle, Washington. When I studied and lived in Seattle back in 2011, little did I know this emerald city was already home to an already well-established and growing hub of gaming companies and studios. PAX was born in Seattle. Another thing to add to my list of things I should have done when I used to be there.

Last year, I bought a Saturday and Sunday pass, which I felt was sufficient enough for my first time. This time, I ended up getting a three-pass, which got me in on all three days. The first day was all trying all the games we could get our hands on, and scope out the entire area, which was spread across three sections. PAX Rising was the first section one would entire, and this where all the up-and-coming and local video games are on show for consumers to try out. I particularly liked how I saw a couple of games that were also at last year’s PAX, along with the new ones.

The second section was the area where all big names in gaming were situated – all decked out with the latest tech, interactive areas, lights displays, competitions, and – of course – the merchandise. Cyberpunk 2077 had its own dedicated section where people could line up and watch all the trailers and game plays on a humungous 8k-resolution Samsung tv with blasting speakers in your face that made my ears ring after it was done. My partner and I were lucky enough to line for only five minutes before we got in to a session and scored free posters for it. One can’t deny that warm and fuzzy feeling when you’ve laid your hands on a prized possession for a while now – in this case, it was a Cypberpunk 2077 poster. Aside from the big brands, Nintendo and Square Enix were the next highlights for me. Nintendo had a a massive section where they displayed the new Switch Lite among the many switches available for people to play. There was also the line to play the demo for Luigi’s Mansion 3 – however, I did find it pointless to line up given the game was going to be released in about three weeks at that time. Square Enix had a competitive line up of PCs for people to play the online MMORPG of Final Fantasy.

The third section of PAX Australia was the tabletop and board game area, with plenty of seats for people to play games like Dungeons & Dragons, paint figurines, or build waffle towers. A highlight for me was the retro area, where pinball machines, old consoles and games from the 1980s and 1990s were on display. As a fan of nostalgic items – such as cameras – this was really a fun and enjoyable area for me. I did manage to play a Back to the Future-themed pinball machine, which was absolutely gorgeous to play on, but it wasn’t long at all before my turn was already up. I’m really bad at pinball. The virtual reality and LAN section were at the last area, but we didn’t bother to line up for these.

PAX Australia was also were I would be giving cosplay a go for the very first time. Despite all the nervousness and anxiety, I plucked up the courage and bought my cosplay outfit. This was the best time I could live in the shoes of a character, have fun with it, and build confidence. It took me up to an hour just to get the make up right as well as having to face with the fact that my skirt was a tad bit shorter than expected. It was an absolute blast of a day! I had people walk up to me and ask me to take a phot with them or take a photo of me. I got plenty of kind nods and comments my way. I truly felt so popular and it certainly was a great feeling! My partner took lots of amazing photos. I’m still thinking if I should post them in my ‘Games section’ or just create a blog entry for it. Either way, this content will be coming up shortly!

The third and final day was all about making sure we checked out every single section, nook and cranny, corners, hidden easter eggs (just kidding), and grabbing as much freebies and merchandise as we wanted. This was the same day we scored those Cyberpunk 2077 posters, as well as lanyards, enamel pins (paid for them), a hand-drawn Avengers poster by an Australian artist, and some pretty cool Playstation game CD coasters – these were really cool and definitely took me in a short rollercoaster ride to the days I used to play these Playstation games at my grandparents place. This was also the day that I took the most photos. I knew the low lighting was going to be the tricky aspect, despite the massive second section full of flashing lights. I decided to focus on capturing anything neon and Cyberpunk-inspired. I couldn’t find a lot of these themes, so it wasn’t as successful a theme to go for.

PAX Australia, once again, was incredible. I learned more things about my camera than before, and this does nothing but make me a better film photographer. Now, the wait for next year’s PAX begins again.

October with Film - Notes on the Contax G1

It’s a beautiful and warm spring afternoon in Melbourne. Sitting in a cafe with my coffee by my right side and my laptop ready to face on my ferocious typing. I’m looking out the window and observing at the scene outside. Cars and people are going about their business in a slow, fuzzy yet steady pace. This is how I rediscover my friendship with time. Time has been my enemy these past months, but it’s about time I change that. With time on my hands, I can start to do the things I want to, like writing!

A couple of months ago, I finally plucked up the courage – and I didn’t even know I had to have this – and bought the coveted Contax G1 35 film camera as my main film camera. Set aside the luxurious status, the stunning lens, beautiful titanium satin finish, and overall appeal of it, it was a long and arduous journey to buy it but it was worth all the effort. Why did it take me so long to succumb to it? The main obstacle was justifying the hefty price tag and whether or not I could use a cheaper camera and achieve similar, same or better results. I also knew I had to be realistic with my skills and that I am and still am learning the quirks and perks of film photography, various film types and various camera bodies. My entry point was the disposable camera, which I covered in my previous blogs. Eventually, I wanted more quality photos and bought a cheap Pentax point-and-shoot camera. My little Pentax is a hidden gem and its results have impressed me very much. You don’t need an expensive camera to be able to take great photos. Ultimately, I found myself wanting more out of my point-and-shoot camera. That’s when I decided it was the right time to dive in and snap one up for myself.

A couple of months down the track, it’s been a curiously enjoyable journey. I’ve been able to take the camera with me to a few outings or events where I know I wouldn’t be too bummed out with not taking fabulous photos. Every time I’ve taken it out, I’ve learned something new about it. For one thing, I’ve found the light meter in the camera itself is really your friend. It won’t fire unless it knows it will be able to take in just enough light and isn’t too nose-close to your subject. Despite it being an expensive camera, I’m surprised to find it a cost-effective film camera. It won’t take the photo, but it’s only trying to help you. The last time I was at this cafe, I took a photo of my empty coffee cup. About a few weeks ago, I finally developed the film and the result is stunning:

See for yourself. This was literally just a quick close-up snap of my empty coffee cup. The tone, lighting, and softness of the photo sets the entire mood of the setting. Relaxing, cosy, and warm.

I needed this courage once again to bring the Contax G1 to PAX Australia, the biggest event my camera’s been to, and put its limits to the test. The biggest battle I faced was the indoor light and how well the photos would look. Composition was also another tricky aspect to put into practice due to the big crowds. However, I went in there and focused on shooting with a particular theme and that was capturing the lights, shadows, and neon-colours, anything that screamed cyberpunk. I’ll be sharing more of my thoughts and experience at PAX Australia in another blog entry, but the Contax G1 held itself really well. Although my camera didn’t really pick up much of the neon vibrancy that well nor were my compositions that great, I did manage to capture a few stand-out moments.

It’s been a great two months of learning with new camera and I’m thrilled that there’s still more learning to do with it. I haven’t reached any stage where I regretted buying the camera and am thankful that I have plenty yet to learn.

Light Bulb Ideas - The Mannequin Project

A few months ago, I had coffee with one of my managers from work where we talked about his upcoming trip to Europe. Recalling a funny story in his last European trip in Greece where he and his friend found the various mannequins wherever they went quite amusing. This became a little photo blog and what he showed me was quite hilarious, from the stranger poses to the mix ‘n’ match of colours that will yourself stand out in a big urban jungle but somehow works in a paradise like Greece. It’s so easy to find ideas in the most obvious and common things. Looking at things from a different perspective and evoking a feeling is what every photographer would want their photos to do. One just has to have the eye for it. This mannequin-manic phase sparked a little idea to take a couple of rolls of film and focus on a common subject, like a mannequin, something that’s easy to find in the most common of places. Subjects could be anything like lamp posts, a certain colour or theme, books, cameras, hats, you name it!

I’m starting to like this concept. Easy to do, achievable, exciting, and just fun!

More on this later.

August With Film - Initial thoughts on the Contax G1

In small hands, this is a descent-sized film camera. Despite the weight, it’s a mighty beast of titanium build with a luminescent glow. It took me almost two years to give in to the Contax spell. This isn't a review yet so I'm going to say i’m already captivated by its beauty.

Pentax-tic Gem - Initial photos of the Pentax Espio 120Mi

Pentax-tic Gem

Initial photos of the Pentax Espio 120Mi

I saw this camera sitting at around $30 on eBay. I got excited. From all the blogs, articles, forums, and camera websites relating to film cameras and film photography, I recall coming across this particular Pentax Espio 120Mi camera being one of those cameras to look out for. At the time of release, this camera retailed for a whopping $200 dollars. I’ve been pretty lucky with the eBay sellers I’ve been dealing with, because every camera I’ve bought from there has been meticulously taken care of over the many years of its camera’s lifetime. This is no exception. I will aim to write a more in-depth reaction of the camera and my experiences once I have had more time to bring it around with me. For now, enjoy these juicy photos.