Nikon Lite Touch Zoom AF

The Nikon Lite Touch Zoom is a pocketable, good looking zoom lens point & shoot with several nice features and a few drawbacks. I've had the Lite Touch for several years and have taken it out often. The image quality is good, the lens is sharp and the zoom provides flexibility. 

Based on my experience here are the camera's advantages / nice features and drawbacks.

Advantages:

• Sharp zoom lens - 35-70mm f/3.5-6.5 zoom
• Panorama and normal mode
• Adequate flash with multiple modes
• Zoom lens only extends 1-1/4"
• Readily available CR123A battery
• Quick focus
• DX coding (ISO 100 - 1000)

Disadvantages:

• Very small viewfinder
• All buttons are small, rubberized and surprisingly hard to push. The shutter release button (at least on my camera) has to be pushed quite hard to activate.
• No lens cap or cover
• Unable to manually set ISO
• Zoom lens is "stopless" (doesn't stop at 35, 50, etc.). It can be stopped anywhere between 35 thru 70mm. However, except at 35mm or 70mm you don't know what the zoom is set at.

One weird feature of the camera is that the film is loaded "backwards". Looking at the back the film door opens R to L. The film is also loaded "upside down" compared to most cameras. 

Overall, a nice camera for everyday snapshots, street photography or vacation / traveling. Here are a few shots using a roll of Ultrafine Warehouse Finesse 400 developed with Kodak D-76.

  

Status of Film Photography – Why You Should Consider Film

I recently gave a presentation at a local camera club. The club is primarily digital focus, but they asked me to give an update on the film photography genre and why a digital photographer might consider film photography. Here's an overview of the presentation.

Why you should try film again or give it a try?

• New films to try
• Harman Phoenix 200
• CineStill 400D
• CineStill 800T
• Kodak Ektachrome (relaunched)
• Film Ferrania Orto 50
• Wolfen NC500
• Kodak Gold 200 – 120
• Santa Gold
• Polaroid 600 & iType
• Film Photography Project repackaged films
• LuckyPan SHD400
• Various Vision3 repackaged films
• Others

• Trending / hot on social media
• Heavily impacted by young social media influencers
• Uses YouTube, TikTok, BlueSky & Threads
• Not afraid to edit
• OK to fail / just snapshots
• No rules
• Share easily online
• Boutique physical and online stores (just a few) that are active on social media promoting the genre & photographers.
• Bellows
• Film Photography Project
• Brooklyn Film Camera
• Lomography
• Roberts Camera & Used Photo Pro
• KEH Camera

• Film photography compliments your cell phone / digital photography

• Allows you to slow down & get back to basics

• A new source of inspiration and if you are burned out

• New life to old equipment

• Lots of cool cameras at reasonable or low prices

Q&A about the current status of film photography 

• Question - Are film cameras still available / where can I get one?
• Answer - YES
• Family & friend's stash (cameras they own that are not being used)
• Online & physical stores (both new and used)
• KEH
• eBay (be careful as descriptions are often inaccurate / misleading & prices may not reflect the market)
• New cameras are available (Pentax 17, Rollei 35, Leica M6, disposable point & shoots, etc.)

• Question - Is film still being produced and available?
• Answer - YES
• Color, B&W, instant and slide
• 35mm, 120, Polaroid, Instax, large format & bulk
• Vision3 motion picture film in bulk and repackaged

• Question - Where to buy film?
• Answer - Many places
• Mass market stores like Walmart, Meijers, Target, etc.
• Fujifilm & Kodak almost exclusively
• Roberts Camera / Used Photo Pro
• Freestyle Photo
• Ultrafine Warehouse
• B&H Photo
• Adorama

• Question - Can I still get film developed? Where?
• Answer - YES both labs and at home
• Developing chemicals are readily available and affordable
• Its normally cheaper to develop film at home
• Labs (to name a few)
• Roberts Camera
• CVS / Meijers / WalMart
• They send it to a 3rd party lab and it's typically the most expensive option
• The Darkroom
• Boutique Film Lab
• Citizen Photo
• NJ Film Lab
• Dark Slide Film Lab
• Boutique Film Lab
• Art centers / public due it yourself photography labs

• Question - Is film photography expensive?
• Answer - it's all relative but YES, relative to digital (after the camera is purchased) film is more expensive. A roll of film costs $6-25 before tax and developing $10-15 per roll.

• Question - How do I lower the cost of film photography?
• Answer - many options
• Home develop your negatives
• Bulk roll film
• Use less expensive cameras - there are MANY options
• Less expensive films
• Arista EDU, Harman, Fomapan, Vision3, Ultrafine, etc.

• Question - Is film or digital better quality?
• Answer - eye of the beholder, but overall digital is better and more flexible

My Workflow

• First, I always carry a CAR camera
• Normally, a point & shoot

• Select a shoot theme, project or location for each non-casual photoshoot
• Primarily street photography
• Recent locations: Indianapolis, Colorado (4 times), Chicago (3 times), Cincinnati, Louisville, Columbus, OH & NYC
• Past projects:
• "Small town Indiana"
• Vision3 remjet removal and testing different types of Vision3 types
• Used Photo Pro camera tests
• Try new films
• Expired film tests

• Select a camera and film

• Do the photoshoot

• Update film / photoshoot worksheet

• Develop & scan

• Post on social media or write blog post

During the meeting which is primarily attended by photographers with previous experience with film photography most have kept one or two of their film cameras. However, only one of about 20 members at the meeting still routinely shots film. I'm not sure if anyone has plans to go out and try film in 2025 but if so they now have information bringing them up to speed.

Yashica Electro 35 GSN Battery Options

The Yashica Electro 35 GSN and the MG-1 are fine rangefinder cameras. If you've wanted a Leica M version rangefinder but don't want the high price then you can consider the Electro 35 or MG-1.   

The big problem with both cameras is the battery which is no longer available. The original battery was the mercury 5.6V Mallory TR164 or Eveready E164

Although both cameras work without a battery you really get the value of Auto mode, the light meter and shutter speeds with a battery. As such, you have 3 options. They are:

• A 6 volt similar sized PX32 styled alkaline battery
• Stack a CR123A / LR44 battery for 4.5V
• Use an adapter with 4 x LR44 batteries for 6V

I've tested all 3 versions, and all 3 work. The light meter compensates voltage from approximately 4.5 - 6.4V. Therefore, all 3 options work without negatively impacting exposure.  

Here is how you stack a CR123A / LR44

Both batteries are readily available and this is a simple solution. I shot a roll with this battery setup and it worked fine.

The test battery setup was using an inexpensive adapter that I purchased on Amazon with 4 x LR44 batteries for a total of 6V.

Amazon PX32 adapter

4 x LR44 batteries

4 x LR 44 batteries stacked in the adapter

+ end pointing out

Battery check light works

Here are some photos from both battery setups:

CR123A / LR44 combo with Ilford HP5+:

Battery adapter with 4 x LR44 batteries with Fujifilm 400:

Either option that you use provides good results for your Yashica Electro 35 GSN or Yashica MG-1

Canon Sure Shot M

I recently used my Canon Sure Shot M (also called the Autoboy F in Japan and Canon Prima Mini in Europe). It's a very pocketable, simple point & shoot 35mm camera. The Canon Sure Shot M is an attractive, smooth edged camera with minimal features. This makes it perfect for snapshots, street photography or as a basic everyday camera.

Here is an overview of the basic features:

• 32mm f/3.5 lens
• Built in flash with on / off button
• Recessed on/off button
• Slow sync exposure compensation button (EV3 f/3.5 at 2 sec to EV7 at f/3.5 at 1/10 sec) 
• Auto focus
• Full auto with speeds 1/60 to 1/250 second (no manual or aperture priority mode)
• Auto aperture from f/3.5 to f/22
• DX coded with ISO from 25 to 3200
• Contemporary CR123A battery
• Self timer
• Date mode feature on back

The only downside in my experience is that there is no lens cover as with many similar cameras. 

I shot a roll of Fujifilm 400 through the Sure Shot M in downtown Indianapolis on a sunny afternoon. Here are some photos:

Bottomline, in my opinion the Canon Sure Shot M is an excellent point and shoot 35mm camera for everyday use.

 

Vision3 Film without Remjet - How to Make Your Own!

Kodak Vision3 motion picture film is an excellent option for color photography. It’s available in various ISO ratings and color balances, including 50D, 200T, 250D, and 500T. You can find it in 35mm cartridges or bulk rolls (100', 400', and 1000' lengths) from Kodak or resellers—both in physical and online stores.

What You Need to Know About Remjet

One important consideration when working with Vision3 film is the remjet layer. Remjet is an opaque, black carbon-based coating applied to the back of the film.

• Impact on Shooting: The remjet layer does not affect the process of shooting with the film.
• Remjet Removal: However, it must be removed during development (unless you buy pre-removed film).

The main issue with Vision3 film is that most commercial labs cannot develop it due to their inability to remove the remjet layer. So, you have two options:

1. Home-develop the film (a relatively simple process).
2. Use a specialized lab capable of processing Vision3 film.

Removing the Remjet Layer Before Shooting

An option for those who want to eliminate the remjet before shooting is to remove it ahead of time. While this step is optional, it can streamline the development process later on.

I’ve developed a workflow to remove the remjet using a Paterson daylight developing tank and a 3D-printed, light-tight film dryer. The process isn’t difficult, but it requires complete darkness for several steps.

Here’s a high-level breakdown of the workflow for removing the remjet layer before shooting:

1. Load the film onto a Paterson System reel (or another compatible reel system).
2. Remove the remjet layer using a prebath solution (e.g., Kodak DIY or Flic Film remjet removal).
3. Transfer the film into a 3D-printed film dryer for drying.
4. Dry the film for 3-4 hours with a fan to ensure it's thoroughly dried.
5. Reload the film into reusable 35mm cartridges.

Steps 1, 3, and 5 require a black film-changing bag or a darkroom to ensure complete darkness.

Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s a list of the necessary equipment for this workflow:

• Vision3 film (any type)
• Daylight developing tank (I prefer the Paterson System), including reels, changing bag, scissors & tape

• Remjet removal prebath (Kodak, Flic Film, or a DIY solution)
• 3D-printed film drying tank
• 60x60mm computer fan with a 12V charger (I found mine at Micro Center)

• 35mm cartridges for reloading the film

You can find the 3D-printed drying tank here.

Here's a video assembling the film dryer:

The assembled film dryer:

And for the remjet removal prebath I use, check out this link to my guide. The guide includes the formulary for the prebath and the process.

Here's a video of the remjet removal step:

The Step-by-Step Process

If you want to remove the remjet layer before shooting, follow these steps:

1. Prepare the Film: Cut off the leader from the roll(s) of Vision3 film, leaving a straight edge 
   
   
   
2. Unload the Film: In complete darkness (using a changing bag), remove the film from its cartridge. Leave about ½” of film on the cartridge.
3. Load the Film: Load the film onto the developing reels and place the reels in the daylight developing tank. Secure the tank with its lid and set aside the cartridges for reloading.
4. Remove the Remjet: Use your chosen prebath solution to remove the remjet layer from the film.
5. Transfer to Drying Tank: In the changing bag, transfer the reels from the developing tank to the 3D-printed film drying tank.
6. Dry the Film: With the fan running, dry the film for about 3-4 hours until it’s fully dry.
7. Reload the Film: In the changing bag, reattach the film to the original 35mm cartridges (or bulk loading cartridges). Tape the leader end of the film to the cartridge, ensuring the emulsion side is positioned correctly.
8. Final Touch: Once you’ve reloaded the film into the cartridges, remove everything from the changing bag. You’re done!

Important Notes

• Remjet Prebath Options: There are various prebath formulas available to remove the remjet layer, but I’ve found the one I use to be the most effective.
• Commercial Development: Even if the prebath works well, I would still recommend not sending your film to a standard lab. There’s always a chance small amounts of remjet could remain, potentially affecting the final image quality.
• When to Use This Workflow: This process is only necessary if you want to remove the remjet layer before shooting the film. If you’re okay with the remjet layer staying on the film, it can be easily removed during development.

Enjoy experimenting with Kodak Vision3 film!

Camera Stores I Use - Online & Physical

As you might know I actively purchase digital cameras (new and used), film cameras, studio equipment, film photography supplies, film, etc., etc. VERY actively. I enjoy visiting and buying in store, but I also buy online. I tend to buy from a the same list of online and physical stores. 

Roberts Camera and Used Photo Pro is my primary place to purchase all my photography needs because they are local and actively support the community.

Here is the list of retailers I've visited or purchased from regularly:

B&H Photo Video

Location: New York City, NY

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/

Bellows Film Lab

Location: Atlanta, GA; Chicago, IL; Miami, FL

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://www.bellowsfilmlab.com/

Central Camera Co.

Location: Chicago, IL

Physical Store / Online: Physical

Website: https://centralcamera.com/

Camera Film Photo

Location: Hong Kong

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://camerafilmphoto.com/

Film Photography Project Store

Location: Fairlawn, NJ

Physical Store / Online: Online

Website: https://filmphotographystore.com/

Freestyle Photo & Imaging Supply

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://www.freestylephoto.com/

Midwest Photo Exchange

Location: Colombus, OH

Physical Store / Online:  Both

Website: https://mpex.com/

REFLX Lab

Location: Shenzhen, CN

Physical Store / Online: Online

Website: https://reflxlab.com/

Roberts Camera / Used Photo Pro

Location: Indianapolis, IN

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://robertscamera.com

Website: https://usedphotopro.com/

Samy's Camera

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://www.samys.com/losangeles

Ultrafine Online / Photo Warehouse

Location: Oxnard, CA

Physical Store / Online: Online

Website: https://www.ultrafineonline.com/

Victory Camera

Location: Boulder, CO

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://www.victorycamera.com/

The following are retailers that I have not purchased from or visited however they support the community or are community recommended. 

Adorama

Location: New York, NY

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://www.adorama.com/

Analogue Wonderland

Location: Loudwater, Buckinghamshire, UK

Physical Store / Online: Online

Website: https://analoguewonderland.co.uk/

CineStill Films

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://cinestillfilm.com/

Brooklyn Film Camera

Location: Brooklyn, NY

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: https://brooklynfilmcamera.com/

Don's Photo Equipment

Location: Dallas, TX

Physical Store / Online: Both

Website: http://www.donsphotoequipment.com/

Japan Camera Hunter

Location: Tokyo, JP

Physical Store / Online: Online

Website: https://www.japancamerahunter.com/

If you have other retailers that you'd like me to add, just drop me an email or comment. 

Canon FT QL

I recently used my Canon FT QL ("quick load"). It's a robust SLR with an FL / FD lens mount and a reasonable TTL light meter. I mounted the FT with a Canon FD 35mm f/3.5 lens. As always this isn't a technical review but if you'd like more information here is the manual.

Here are the things I like and dislike about the FT:

What I like:

• Convenient shutter release lock under the shutter release button
• Good shutter speeds from B to 1/1000 & X setting for flash sync of 1/60
• Quick load mechanism that eliminates / minimizes film mis-loading
• Convenient battery check switch
• Wide range of affordable / high quality lenses

What I dislike:

• Loud shutter slap so the camera is not stealthy 
• Cold shoe versus hotshoe
• Metering lever is next to the lens and somewhat awkward to use
• The lens stops down when the meter lever is activated so the viewfinder darkens making it hard to see the light meter needle in the viewfinder
• The light meter needle is very small so somewhat difficult to see in darker settings
• requires a 1.3V battery for the light meter which are not readily available
• The FT is heavy

Even with the camera's negative features I enjoy using the FT QL. My version is clean & I have a good range of FD lenses. Also, even though the camera uses a 1.3v battery I used a standard 1.5v button battery successfully. The light meter reads hot, so I simply adjusted the aperture by a stop whenever I used the meter. This seemed to work OK. The rest of the time I simply used sunny 16.

Here are a few images from a recent shoot using Fujifilm 200 and home developed with CineStill C-41.