TLRkameroita

TLRkameroita refers to Twin-Lens Reflex cameras. This type of camera uses two lenses that are positioned one above the other. The top lens is primarily used for viewing and focusing the image, while the bottom lens captures the actual photograph. The viewing lens is typically connected to a mirror mechanism that reflects the image onto a ground glass screen, allowing the photographer to see a life-size, inverted image of what the taking lens will capture. This design offers a distinct shooting experience, as the photographer looks down through the top lens to compose their shot.

Many classic medium format cameras utilize the TLR design. Some of the most well-known TLR camera manufacturers include Rolleiflex, Yashica, and Mamiya. These cameras were popular for their relatively compact size compared to other medium format systems, their ease of use for composing shots, and the high-quality images they produced, often on 120 film. The waist-level viewfinder, while different from modern eye-level viewfinders, allowed for stable shooting and precise framing.

Despite the rise of digital photography and single-lens reflex (SLR) cameras, TLR cameras maintain a dedicated following among film photographers. They are appreciated for their unique aesthetic, the tactile experience of shooting with them, and the distinctive look of medium format film. Many TLR cameras are still functional and available on the used market, offering an accessible entry point into medium format photography. Their mechanical nature means they often require manual focus and exposure settings, which can appeal to photographers seeking a more deliberate approach to image-making.