The Fortunate Marriage of a Minitar-1 Art Lens and the Babylon Kino B&W ISO 13 Film

Soft-edged focusing and vignetting are two of the biggest characteristics of the Minitar-1 Art Lens. When paired with a low ISO film such as Babylon Kino B&W ISO 13 film, the result is simply dreamy.

Like many soft-edged lenses, the Minitar can convey that allure of suspense. Rightfully so, when we look for a lens, the word sharp is synonymous with quality. However, with the Minitar, having the soft-edged focus as a crucial feature will challenge and widen the idea of a perfect photo.

Focusing

Once you get accustomed to the zone focusing, and get out of that mental stillness of wondering if things are in focus or not, you enter in a sort of dance with your camera. The distance from your subject becomes more philosophical. Rather than a question of clear vision is the evocative effect that this lens provides which helps that final aesthetic.

Getting out of your comfort zone and engaging in the more realistic aspect of photography can be quite freeing. When choosing the instruments for your next shoot it is worth asking yourself, what are the key features of the lens? Those specifics will have you approach a photo session differently.

The compact size of the Minitar, which almost disappears in your camera, makes this lens the perfect partner for street photography. It is a discrete and delicate lens that favors a composed posture when shooting; allowing the photographer to be more as the proverbial "fly on the wall" (or on the street for that matter.) However, it is the soft-edged focus and the compact size of the lens, which is light to carry in your hands, that, pairing the Minitar with a low ISO, in a non-street related environment, makes such a drastic change in the final results.

The Low ISO

Babylon Kino film has a personal allure of fine grain and dynamic range. When shooting black and white, our eyes can focus on shapes and forms rather than colors. To enhance the contrast, when working with a slower ISO speed, bright daylight will most surely be of help.

Many times as photographers, we must consider the environment, specifically the weather, if we're shooting outdoors. When the conditions do not seem favorable, we can easily get discouraged. However, knowing the strength and the weakness of the tools in our bags can turn unfavorable conditions to our advantage.

Backlighting will increase your contrast, as it tends to be softer in shades, permitting a lively monochromatic tone with the scale of gray achievable in your pictures. Proving that Babylon Kino film can be a great film choice regardless of the season you find yourself in when shooting.

Bearing this in mind, your new motto might be: never be afraid of weather but always be mindful of your equipment.

Have you ever shot with a low ISO film and how did you like your pictures? Did you ever try the Minitar lens and for what purpose did you use it? Share with us your experiences in the comments below.

written by eparrino on 2022-05-03 in #gear #minitar #low-iso #babylon