Sunday, April 29, 2007

Panorama Workshop (alias Beirax goes Panorama)

Today we look for a non-destructive way to convert the Beirax (Beier) 6x9 from 1938 to convert into a 135 Panorama camera. All we need is some double-sided sticky tape and hot-glue.
Preparation: We prepare an empty 120 film roll width 2 pieces of cut plastic providing the with of 135 film, Hot glue comes handy since it dries fast and is pretty hard.

1) Use the new converted roll for the loaded film, the glued plastic gives some guidance.
2) Load the film in the middle, anything like crushed paper can be used as distance piece.
3) You must find out with a test film, how many turns are required to forward after each shot to the next frame without overlapping (since there is no visual control or counter).
4) The film size: 90x24mm (aspect ratio 3,75)
5) Use some black cardboard to create an estimation of a panoramic viewfinder.
6) Dont forget to tape something over the 120 counter window !
Have fun with your new old panorama camera ! In principle this works with all kinds of old 6x9 cameras, e.g. like the Billy Record. It would be possible to create a mask to avoid exposing on the holes and eventually create a more flat film.

Dont sue me if you screw your collectible vintage cam ;-)
Over and Out, on the way to Sydney now for 8 days. When I am back I will post some results.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

In the next workshop I would like to see how you get a 220 middle format rollfilm into a spy minox ...
have fun - thierry

Mr Sanguine said...

Funny you are modding this Sven. I just got myself a modded Kodak Art Deco 616 converted to use a 135 roll for a 24x108mm neg. Can't wait try it out.

jannx said...

Sven, I'm wondering if the 'count' of 'turns' to advance the film changes as your take up spool becomes "wider" due to film rolling up and widening the diameter of the take-up.

What's your experience?

Sven Hafner said...

correct, the counting changes.
its more guessing ! I dont use that setup very often though.