The rhythmic click of the shutter, the anticipation of capturing a fleeting moment, the thrill of unfurling a freshly developed roll of film – these are the joys of analog photography. And what better way to rediscover these pleasures than by embarking on a photographic exploration of a vibrant city?
One of my little analogue secrets is a draw full of ebay film cameras in need of attention. I'm afraid I often get sucked into purchasing cameras that back in the day I simply couldn't afford or have owned at some time and feel a nostalgic need to own again. Of course I have plenty of other reasons to save yet another film camera, which is why I have recently added a second draw and doubled my capacity and investment (As I prefer to think about it). This week the Konica FS-1 caught my eye and after a little cleaning and light seal replacement she was ready to go!
So I took my trusty Konica FS-1 on a photo walk through the bustling streets of Birmingham, UK. This unassuming, yet capable, 35mm film camera became my companion as I documented the city's diverse tapestry – from its historical landmarks to its contemporary buildings. I worked in Birmingham for over ten years but a change of jobs took me away from the city and it's only since retirement that I have had the opportunity to resume my documentation of the city.
The Konica FS-1: A Reliable Partner in Exploration
Released in 1979, the Konica FS-1 marked a significant step in SLR (Single-Lens Reflex) camera technology. It boasted several innovative features, making it a perfect choice for both novice and experienced photographers.
One of the camera's most notable features is its Konica Autoload System. This ingenious mechanism simplifies film loading, allowing you to focus on capturing the scene rather than fiddling with film canisters. The motor-driven film advance further adds to the convenience, especially when shooting fast-paced scenes - Just don't leave your finger on the shutter!
Beyond its user-friendly features, the FS-1 impresses with its solid build quality and reliable performance. The camera feels reassuringly weighty in your hands, positively brick like after compared with my Fujifilm X-e3. However there is a sense of craftsmanship that is often missing in today's digital world.
This isn't a technical guide to the camera so suffice it to say that the 40mm Konica Hexanan lens paired with the camera has been positively reviewed. Given the nature and quality of expired film its certainly not going to be a facture here. For exposure the lense is set to auto (AE) and the film speed is selected from a dial on the top plate. The camera selects the correct aperture for you which is indicated in the viewfinder. Lots of led lights flash if the camera cannot make a good exposure with the selected shutter speed. To do any of this the film speed has to be set using a small dial on the top of the camera. Today I'm using some expired Ilford HP5+ 400 ASA.
I have to say that focusing the FS-1 is very easy. The bright viewfinder with a split-image focusing aid makes manual focusing a breeze, allowing for precise control over image composition. This type of arrangement is very common and you soon get the hang of it.
Analog Photography: Slowing Down to See More
In the age of instant gratification and digital filters, there's a certain charm to the deliberate pace of analog photography. Unlike snapping endless digital photos, using film forces you to be more selective with your shots. Each frame becomes precious, encouraging you to compose thoughtfully and capture moments with intention.The rhythmic click of the shutter, the anticipation of capturing a fleeting moment, the thrill of unfurling a freshly developed roll of film – these are the joys of analog photography. And what better way to rediscover these pleasures than by embarking on a photographic exploration of a vibrant city? As I wandered through Birmingham, the Konica FS-1 I quickly became accustomed to the Konica FS-1. I found myself slowing down, observing the people and buildings and the fleeting patterns of light and shadow cast by the sun.
Birmingham: A City Revealed Through Film
My exploration with the Konica FS-1 led me all over the city. Looking at my Lightroom catalogue I can see that the last time I did any serious photography in the city was back in 2016; and boy have things changed. Yet, amidst the rapid pace of change, Birmingham has managed to retain its unique identity and sense of community. Historic landmarks like the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery stand as reminders of the city's storied past.
Beyond the Images: A Journey of Rediscovery
So for me this photo walk with the Konica FS-1 was more than just capturing images; it was a journey of rediscovery. It reminded me of the joy of slowing down, appreciating the nuances of the world around me, and creating tangible memories through the lens of a camera. I reflected on my ten years working in the city and the many memories I have of people and places.
If you're looking for a way to reconnect with the simple pleasures of photography and explore your city with fresh eyes, I highly recommend picking up a film camera and embarking on your own photographic adventure. The Konica FS-1, with its user-friendly features and reliable performance, makes a fantastic companion for such an exploration. You might just be surprised by the beauty and stories you discover along the way.
Tips for Exploring Your City with Film:
Choose a theme or focus for your walk. This will help you narrow down your shots and ensure you're capturing what truly interests you about the city.
Start early or late in the day. The softer light of sunrise and sunset can create more evocative images.
Don't be afraid to experiment. Try different angles, compositions, and film stocks to see what works best for you.
Embrace the unexpected. The beauty of analog photography lies in its unpredictable nature. Sometimes, the best shots are the ones you least expect.
Most importantly, have fun! Enjoy the process of exploring your city and capturing its unique character through the lens of a film camera.
As the morning draws to a close the clouds start to gather and that's my call for lunch. The Konica FS-1 may, like myself be a relic of the past, but it's lessons are timeless. The camera works as well today as it did back in the late 1970's.The camera was the height of technology in its day and I wandered who first owned it and how they used it.
Conclusion: A Farewell to Birmingham
And now, it's time to share the fruits of my rediscovery of Birmingham. Below, you'll find a selection of photographs taken during my walk from urban shots and buildings to candid street scenes, each image captures a slice of life in this eclectic city – a testament to the power of analog photography to evoke emotion and tell stories.The unique aesthetic of film photography and the nature of expired film added a distinctive character to my images. The subtle grain and black and white HP5 lent a timeless quality to my shots, capturing the essence of the city in a way that digital photography often struggles to replicate.
So, grab your camera, load it with film, and head out to explore your city. You might just discover a whole new world waiting to be captured.So here's to analog adventures, to capturing moments in time, and to finding beauty in the everyday. Until next time, keep shooting and never stop exploring.
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