Getting into 6x9 Film Photography sharing my thoughts and composition Ideas

In this video I went to the Farm with a AGFA Record II 6x9 Folding Camera and an expired roll of AGFA APX 100. I show more of my thought process.
Looking to get into Medium Format Photography? See this video
• Get Into Medium Format...
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EQUIPMENT USED IN THIS VIDEO
CAMERA - AGFA RECORD II
FILM - AGFA APX 100 EXPIRED 2009
DEVELOPER - RODINAL 1:50
STOP & FIX - ILFORD/FOTOSPEED
ENLARGER - DURST M605
PAPER - ILFORD MG RESIN
DEVELOPER - ILFORD MG
STOP & FIX - ILFORD/FOTOSPEED
PRODUCTION GEAR
Leica Q2 Mono, CANON 6D, GOPRO 7 BLACK, Gopro 10 Black, TASCAM DR10L MIC, SENHEISSER SHOTGUN MIC,
NEEWER LED PANELS, GVM COLOUR PANELS, Valoi 360 Film Holder System for scanes, Zeapon Micro 2 Motor Slider,
Editing - FCP, PHOTOSHOP, LIGHTROOM,
ABOUT MY VIDEOS
If my videos inspire, create ideas and help others in film photography and darkroom work then it's worth making them.
I always welcome comments that are useful towards the video subject that will help others understand the process within.
Keep shooting and thanks for watching.
MUSIC CREDITING
KZbin Studio Music

[@Webpromotions]

Geez, you're costing me a fortune. I was happy shooting digital until I found your channel. It started with 35mm, then I moved to 120. Now I'm starting large format, full plate! $20 quid per shot now. Still its cheaper than drugs. 'just' Love the channel!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

😂😂 and don't worry about wasting water. Just don't bath or shower 😉

[@Webpromotions]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss no danger of wasting water, Im originally from Yorkshire and we're famous for hiding our money under the soap!

[@I-SelfLordAndMaster]

Wait until you get hooked on 5X4 it works out at about £10 a sheet of film. At least we’re not harming anyone are we?

[@AdrianBacon]

My all time favorite medium format camera to shoot is the Fujica GW690, otherwise known as the Texas Leica. It is awesome with an awesomely sharp lens. I love the 2x3 aspect ratio and with the 690 it makes shooting Ilford Delta 3200 in 120 format a low light no brainer. With a negative that is more than 4 times the size of standard 35mm film, Delta 3200 grain is present, but subdued. It's great.

[@luc5798]

The problem today is that with this configuration it is necessary to be able to spend without counting...

[@AdrianBacon]

@@luc5798 Shooting film is a luxury. If you want to be able to shoot without keeping track of how much it's costing you, then shoot digital, but even then, if shooting professionally with pro bodies and lenses, if you do the math of the cost of the setup over the life of the shutter, that isn't free either.

[@luc5798]

@@AdrianBacon The price of film has just become nonsense...

[@liveinaweorg]

On the light leak front, make sure to close the cover over the red film window. Might not be that but the longer exposure might just allow enough light to get through to the film.

[@alvinbirdi6502]

Yes - my guess too. I use black tape over the counter window with these kinds of cameras.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yep. Found. Three tiny pinholes shining in the dark! The red window cover is spring loaded and closes after opening.

[@SilntObsvr]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss Yep, don't forget, guys, the image is inverted, so that leak in lower right of the image was upper left when in the camera. It's only on some frames because it would take direct sun on one of the pinholes in the bellows to expose the film in less than several minutes. Sometimes you'll even see a projected image, like a pinhole camera inside your folding camera.

[@nuwanda923]

Maybe a little laser distance metre could be useful for determining the focus 😊 4:24

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Many rely on those. Cheers

[@whfowle]

As a boy growing up in the 50's, the first camera my dad loaned me from time to time was the Brownie Box 616. The contact prints we got from that simple camera were quite sharp. They beat the socks off the plastic wonders which followed in the 60's. The large negatives could hide the faults of a plastic lens just fine.

[@JohnnyCashavetes]

When there's no chart for reciprocity failure, I've found that multiplying the exposure time by 1.3 always works perfectly. Most P-factors are around 1.2-1.4, so it's the perfect middle ground. LOVE doing long exposures. Totally therapeutic.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Nice tip cheers! (Apart from Fomapan!)

[@IncendiaHL]

Shouldn't that be, putting the exposure time to the 1.3rd power?

[@Flburr99]

The reciprocity formula is metered time in seconds ^1.31 = adjusted time. 4 sec^1.31=6.15 sec

[@dickviddicus]

With these old cameras I’ve started using a laser measure I bought off eBay. It works perfectly every time.

[@lesliewalters3896]

Hi I have an agfa Billy that had stiff focusing. To fix this ,wind out the lens to infinity, then cut some knitting wool into 8 inch lengths and dip the centre of the wool in lighter fluid, then floss the exposed helical focusing thread to get the green gunge off. Wind the lens back in and out and repeat. Do this a few times and problem solved!, Worked for me.

[@Resgerr]

What about using dental floss instead of wool dipped in lighter fluid?

[@lesliewalters3896]

@@Resgerr yes could try that, but when the lighter fluid mixes with the old grease it thins it out and you need something absorbent to soak it up so maybe the dental floss first aid then the dry wool.

[@Resgerr]

@@lesliewalters3896 I was just thinking cos I don’t have lighter fluid but I understand know why you use it

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Amazing. I shall try that cheers 😊

[@Resgerr]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss you can even covert the photo into b&w on your iPhone to see better as well.

[@peinmilan]

13:50 The shutter and the film advance mechanism are totally independent. These type of cameras are actually the ultimate multi-expo cameras: you can do whatever you want. :)

[@lensman5762]

If the shutter release button on the body is used, then the double exposure prevention feature prevents the shutter button being pressed again, unless the film is wound up to the next frame. But double exposure is possible if the release point on the shutter itself is used, in which case all is needed is to recock the shutter. For this reason, I always use a cable release on the shutter itself. I have 7 differnt folders from Zeiss, Voigtlander, Ensign and Franka and they all behave in the same manner. I don't have anything pre 1st world war, so the double exposure prevention mechanism may not exist on those.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

It won't let me take another shot without cable release unless I advance. You hear a little click when it advances which unlocks the shutter.

[@peinmilan]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss OK I see. Mine is a Bessa and I never use the shutter release on the body. So there might be differences indeed...

[@colinricardo157]

The light leak could be in the bellows and depending on the focus is only noticeable when you fully extend the bellows, or it could be the light trap in the camera and the amount of ambient light that is hitting the camera...try sticking some camera tape around the hinge and body next time you shoot a film see if its still there.. But I guess you know all that ?? PS. it could be the film on the take up spool is not tightly wound so light is sneaking in the gap in the spool. BTW love the results you are getting light leak or no light leak.. Thanks for sharing the shoot with us. Hope your cold gets better soon .😷

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Cheers Colin. Cold has now kicked in 😩, and Yep. Found Three tiny pinholes shining in the dark!

[@erichstocker8358]

I have a Zeiss Ikonta 6x9 also a 1950s camera. I love the 6x9 size and you are right about contact printing 6x9 photos for folks. It is amazing the information contained in a 6x9 negative and your sample shots give an indication of that. Another super video. Thanks!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks Erich. Yes the 6x9 negs, although only 8, are amazingly filled with detail

[@Lesterandsons]

I also own one from my grandma, Incredible fluid rendering of tones and details it makes crazy portraits

[@MrThestokers]

Thanks for this video Roger. I shoot 6x9 with a Bessa Il camera I picked up on ebay and it gives a distinctive look to my images, like stepping back in time, very rewarding when I get it right. I struggle sometimes with the faint numbers on some manufacturers backing paper through that little red window.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I just replied to another comment saying how these old cameras have their own look. Nice.

[@rickyzagalo]

When I decided to try medium format, choose a Yashica 124, because there's something about the square format that suits me. Enjoy the camera a lot, it gives very good sharp and contrast images. Then, heard about this folder camera with a nice coupled rangfinder on a big finder and get a Wester Autorol, also a great lens that gives very good images. Don't shoot with any of them for about 6 months so, after this inspiring video, I will pick one and go look for a farm.

[@smitbar11]

Nice one Roger! That silver fence at the side of the LR Defender really jumps out to us as silver, this is one of the marvels of B & W photography. I have a Mamiya 6 x 4.5 and a Minolta 6 x 6 TLR and Durst enlarger, the enlarger I have yet to use.... The film carrier can accommodate those negative formats, not sure about 6 x 9. I have several 35mm and 120 rolls to enlarge, not done any developing since that 40*c heatwave we had, must get to it! 😊

[@Frank.Gosebruch]

Thank you for this great video. The 6x9cm format has been my ideal format for over 30 years - and by the way, in my opinion it is completely underestimated. And especially folding cameras are particularly useful for this format because on the go most of the time I don't take photos and so I don't want the camera to be a burden on me. Only when I have found my subject do I open my camera, which is folded to save space, and take my photo. My little black Linhof Super Technika V 6x9 folding camera has never let me down and has been with me since 1987. The reason for my decision was - in addition to the very precise rangefinder - the large range of lenses available and the possibility of using smaller formats in addition to 6x9 (Super Rollex 6x6 and 6x7).

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I can't easily print 6x9 unless I set up another enlarger and do a whole bunch in the same day. I am thinking of shooting more and contacting printing for an album book of small prints.

[@AndrewHenderson]

Hi Rodger, another great video, I have the Fugi GSW690II and I read that the Japanese loved that 6x9 format for school photography, class and year photo's. My version has the 65mm wide angle lens. It's a beast of a range finder but well useable with a monopod, keep up the good work.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Wow 65mm on 6x9 nice!

[@espenbjrkvold5119]

This was interesting. I was just looking into getting a camera and trying 6x9 right before this video came online. 😊 Thank you once again for letting us join your outings. It is very inspiring.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks espen!

[@markmalasics3413]

I would really like to find the person that coined this ".....like a boss" comment and, well, YT won't let me say it.

[@Netcom27]

“Photography is all about light” I couldn’t agree more! Especially in black and white, a good light can really make a scene out of thin air. I’m grateful this hobby taught me to pay attention to light and impact it has in general.

[@davefaulkner6302]

Very nice shots. I'm not familiar with the camera or film but you got some nice sharpness and detail and beautiful tonal range. Agree that farms and industrial sites give you many compositions to discover and are rich that way. The 6x9 format is the same aspect ratio as 35mm (3:2) but is nearly 6 times the film area and thus 6 times the resolution. As and alternative to buying a new camera for this format, try using a 6x9 Graflex film holder on your 4x5 -- for $100 you can re-use all your 4x5 gear to make 6x9 negs with super sharp focus 'cause you're using those beautiful 4x5 lenses. Same goes for formats 6x7, 6x12 and 6x14 - although 6x14 is more expensive -- a $100 Graflex adapter can morph your 4x5 into all kinds of MF format cameras. Downside is that using the 4x5 with a Graflex adapter is only about landscape or still life or similar, because most 4x5 cameras don't have a viewfinder.

[@Narsuitus]

Thanks for the video. I like to pair my Ansco Viking 6x9cm medium format folding camera (fixed 105mm f/6.3 normal lens) with my Fuji 6x9cm medium format rangefinder camera (fixed 65mm wide-angle lens).

[@tomsun3159]

around 6:50: "because i have only 8 shots it slows me down" yes thats the difference between photographing and just taking pictures. Its a difference of beeing on a fixed iso, and adjusting aperture and timing manually, after carefully metering the scene vs. just point and shoot and hammer to the SD-card. There were also the point and shoot 1m-to infinity sharp with perhaps 3 aperture setting if any (sunny, cloudy, dark) pocket cameras 110 Format andif i remember right 126, or the minox format.

[@liveinaweorg]

Just added a 9x12 Voigtlander Bergheil to my collection after selling the Isolette. It's got a lovely 15cm Heliar lens so I am looking forward to shooting it once I get some plate and film holders.

[@picnet]

place some luminescent tape or plotter film inside the camera and leave the shutter open. no need to develop anything. take the luminescent film out and eyeball the glowing light leak.

[@Lesterandsons]

Loved big 6X9 folding big medium format But film has ended for me for decades 🙁 Panoramas are a way to mimic the MF look (modelé in French, dof, perspective...)

[@ZOMBIELUIS666]

If money wasn't an issue I would shoot nothing but 6x9. Love my Fuji G690 BLP and you get the same aspect ratio of 35mm

[@RicardoRMedina]

A couple of drops of cigarette lighter fluid works fantastic to loosen dry grease.

[@cecilsharps]

I took a moscva 5 with me on my deployment to iraq. Like all soviet gear you can find the year of production by looking at the serial number. I'm not surprised it has a like leak. That camera has to be pushing 70 and it's got bellows.

[@NandR]

I have a Voigtlander Bessa I that I need to use. Looks like it’s in great shape just need to tighten the lens down so the shutter will work.

[@Mucklegipe]

Possibly the one that has camera shake is caused by the fact it was the double exposed frame? Thank you for sharing.

[@theoldfilmbloke]

I have several 6x9 folders - never used f32 with them -- I'm EXCITED to use that 120 KENTMERE i WON but it still has NOT ARRIVED -- must be 2 weeks in the Post ----

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Crikey Pete!! Keep me updated mate

[@anthonylovesey1137]

At 10:27 you took a photo where the fence is in front of the tyre. Next time you at the farm maybe place the fence at the side of the photo. Maybe that strange light you talking about at the end was lens flare.

[@GirdHerd]

I really like all of the images, especially the Land Rover shot.

[@fringie69]

Is Agfa Record II and Agfa Billy Record II the same camera?

[@practive65]

Is there anyone that produces modern shutters/lenses for these older cameras?

[@tgchism]

May I ask how your AGFA is holding up and what is your take in how the lens and shutter do against the other medium format cameras you have in quality of images? I have been looking at a ANSCO Viking (made by AGFA) which looks to be nearly the same as your AGFA Record. It has the same lens and shutter. Thanks so much for the info you share on the videos!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I find they all have their own unique look, at least these old folders do compared to more modern MF cameras such as Bronica and RB/RZ, Hasselblad. Often very sharp lenses I find and some a bit soft around the edges. I like this one.

[@johnmckenna8989]

....2nd last shot (wobble) was your double exposure....a hair movement from one to the other......maybe ? ........I did a lot of work wit a 4x5 Crown Graphic many years ago, sometimes with a 6x9 roll film back........John (west coast, Can.)

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Possibly John! Cheers.

[@tumaprints]

The nice thing of doing everything manually is it makes you slow down and think....when I got my first dslr all the thinking I did when shooting color slide film went out the window and I turned into a 'machine gun' shooter. For awhile it was awesome....I didn't use auto mode ata ll, however so my settings were set manually but I quit using my handheld light meter and used the cameras, which took awhile to learn how to use it effectively. I started using both my hand held and in camera meters together. I still use my dslrs but have went back to B?W film to regain my total manual, and composition chops and to relearn to SLOW DOWN and think my shots through. Great job Roger!! Even with an AAS in photographic Imaging you have taught me alot through your videos. Maybe I'll email you a couple of my shots...get another critical eye on them.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Sure email any time. I used to cover my DSLR screen, set it to 3200 iso, no raw, just mono jpg and limit myself to 36 photos. Lol

[@tumaprints]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss Now that's an ingenious idea!!

[@dafonk1973]

Great video and pictures! I especially like the third one. I got the Agfa Record II myself and I was always a bit disappointed by the sharpness of the lens. After watching your video I realized I never took photos at f16 up to f32 (mainly at f5.6 or below) - so I learned from your video to close it down to gain very nice sharpness. I experienced the same difficulties when first using the viewfinder. My approach dealing with this problem (for the Voigtländer Bessa I as well): I'm composing kind of "from the middle of the frame to the outside" - which basically means that I leave enough space around my actual composition and then crop the image when printing.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

The old rule for lenses is they are best 2 stops down from their widest aperture. Not that I've tested all lenses but just a heads up

[@kdj.imagery4317]

Hey, I wanted too ask if you've ever shot with the Holga 120 wide angle pinhole camera? I'm thinking about getting one on the count that you can shoot 6x4.5, 6x7, and 6x9's. Just wandering what your thoughts on that camera would be? Also, I'd highly recommend not going around kissing bulls mate, even if you survived, the Misses would probably wouldn't be kissing you anytime soon...Ha Ha! Cheers

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I've never used one but I do shoot pinhole and I enjoy the results and challenges. Mostly 6x6

[@mdjsalter]

Light leak is probably a pin hole in the bellows. Shine a torch inside the camera in a dark room and you can see any that are there. Quick repair with liquid electrical tape should sort any you find.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yes it was. I have a bit of tape over it now, cheers.

[@williamorford6966]

I’ve not read all of the comments but here’s my take on the light leak. First check bellows by shining a light in. I would suspect pinholes. If you want replacement bellows use Custom Bellows in Birmingham. They know what they are doing and I think they offer a replacement service. Ask for Keith Lowe. From what i did read in the comments some suggested running lighter fluid. Be careful it can get in every where. I’ve seen this as well as putting oil in shutters cause many problems. Personal I would strip it down and clean out the old grease. I’m lucky I’m a retired camera grease monkey 😂 so I do it myself. Any questions please ask I’ve not worked on one of those for years.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks. Yes there are pinholes in the bellows! I wouldn't attempt to take it apart I'm not good with tiny parts!

[@devroombagchus7460]

Thanks! I admire your eye to finding the right spots and your composition. Why do you use such high diaphragm numbers? I aim for f8 to f16, just because I heard that that is best for even sharpness.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

You're correct. Generally a lens sweet spot is two stops below its fastest. So legend has it. I'll drop to wider apertures if I need the light or want a shallow dof.

[@matthewhunter8971]

The light leak is most likely the red window + long exposure, noted the leak is more prominent on the longer shots and hardly visible in one shot when the camera isn't pointing towards the sky. Just my 2 cents but could wrong of course.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Bellows Matthew. But granted. The Red window I have seen issues with in the past in other cameras.

[@lerpack455]

For the sky situation you could use a yellow or orange filter accentuate. Super for B&W shots. Superb shots by the way!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

And a polariser on top! Thanks.

[@guillermoperezsantos]

I love 6*9 its like 35mm on steroids XD

[@kdj.imagery4317]

On the image you passed over due too lack of light (front of the tractor), have you ever tried doing some light painting with a torch?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I have before at night on seascapes. Not very successfully though

[@robhosailor]

Light leaks? Tiny pinholes on the bellows? I had light leaks in my 1937 Voigtlander Bessa - bellows is OK, but tiny rivet missed... What lens your camera has? I have Agfa Isolette I with simplest Agnar and IT is great indeed ❗ Great photos as usual! Regards 😁

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yep. Found. Three tiny pinholes shining in the dark!

[@robhosailor]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss It's a pity, but that's how it is and that's how it looked in the pictures. Can you fix it? Can you find tutorials on KZbin? Some people use a small brush and a few drops of thick black paint, and some people cover these pinholes with drops of nail polish, allowing them to dry well.

[@corgis6801]

I have been giving 6x9 a go over the last year. Found some good folding cameras from the 1910's and 1920's which still produce excellent images. Some of them even outperform the DSLR I scan them with! Others produce unique pictures because of the 2 element lens that they have. Sharp in the middle but massive distortion in the corners which creates images that no other smaller camera can produce.

[@georgeosier5459]

I have the Zeiss Nettar 517/2 and LOVE 6x9 .... the Novar 105 f4.5 is a SHARP lens ... got it on EBay for $75 and it looks new ... I have a rangefinder that goes in the accessory shoe and makes focusing a breeze !!!

[@MikeStAmand]

I loved this video. One of my favorite cameras (in 6x9 format) is my Zeiss Ikon Nettar 517-2. It is fairly light and takes up very little space in my bag. My copy is very sharp and in very good condition. It is just loads of fun and very satisfying to use. I also get surprisingly good results (for a meniscus lens) with my Kodak Brownie #2F but I only shoot about 1 roll/year in the Brownie. I shoot plenty of 6x6, 35mm and 4x5 but my favorite all-around format is 6x9. That aspect ratio is very pleasing to my eye. Even when I'm out with the latest in digital kit I'm carrying my 6x9 folder. Good luck with the light leak issue.

[@SebastianOakley]

I'm currently shooting my Fuji GW690 for street and landscape. The 8 shots are limiting, but also make you think about what you are shooting, and when you nail a shot it makes it all the more exciting when you see the negatives!

[@c.augustin]

I have only one thing to add: Agfa Record III - you never again forget the rangefinder … 😁 (not coupled) And it comes with an Agfa Solinar lens, better than an Apotar. Most Agfa folders have small punctures in the corners of the bellows - hard to find, often only visible with light from the "right" direction (it took me a while to find two such small punctures with my Record III).

[@davecarrera]

GWS690iii here and really do enjoy using it. Been scanning mine rather than making contact sheet but when it warms up a little im in my shed to make a few and see what i get. Wishing you and yours a very merry Christmas.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks Dave. Awesome camera that is! Yes I wanted to make contacts but like you in the shed

[@Lesterandsons]

Caméra made to shoot big groups of tourists...

[@gerardodalchielelueiro6818]

Very good work I say only as a coment the 6 x 9 size is the only who is under the gold number proportion Congratularions from ARGENTINA

[@257squadron]

I wonder if light leak is from bellows or red film number window Rog. Nice images as always!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

It's the Bellows mate.

[@carbonejack]

Wonderful images. Nice tones. Your guesstimates were right on. I've got a Moskva-5 6x9. I haven't had anything developed from it yet. I need to get on the stick and do it.

[@andrewinaustintx]

If you want to check the bellows for light leak - while in the darkroom with the lights out, hold an old-school electronic flash unit that has a manual test button up against the film gate. As you view the front of the camera, trip the test button on the flash unit that is behind the camera. On very old bellow, the light leaks appear at the edge of whatever corners of the folds.

[@timothyplatt6053]

Do you pre-wash with just water from the tap? Or bottled/distelled?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Just tap water. I mix powder chemicals with de-ionised

[@kdj.imagery4317]

What kind of cameras do you use for 6x6's...apart from the TLR's? Also, is it just me or has everybody stopped producing the 620mm film all of a sudden?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

You can still get 620 film if you shop around online. My 6x6 cameras are a Franka Solida, Zeiss Ikon, Pinhole Camera too. I'd love a 6x6 back for the RZ67 but they are mega pricey!

[@kdj.imagery4317]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss Yeah, pretty much anything photo related is expensive anymore! All the places I had bookmarked that sold the 620 have since removed them from their sites even the places that would still develop it has since stopped or rather don't have it listed. Be safe...Cheers!

[@maxencelemoine4190]

I developped my first 6x12 negatives last week, impressive negatives ! When you scan those big negs with your camera, do you take a single shot from a distance or do you come closer and stitch several shot, like a pano ?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Just single shots Max. Look forward to seeing the 6x12 on insta if you post.

[@maxencelemoine4190]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss I will, next week maybe

[@PieterBreda]

I've got two of those cameras, a Agfa Billy and a Zeiss Icon. I'm clueless how they work

[@letmebereal]

No need to be clueless with you tube on hand.

[@PieterBreda]

@@letmebereal True. It's that I didn't take trouble. These old cameras are decoration.

[@BalmBeach1]

Great video as always Roger, seen light leaks like that on some of my old cameras so check the bellows, you could have a pin prick on one of the folds

[@amosk24]

Great job, Boss. You can find photos anywhere 🙂

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yeah thanks

[@RobBob555]

I know this a year old video, but I hope you are feeling better 👍

[@richardsisk1770]

Nice. How did you know I been thinking about 6x9!?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

My angels told me ha ha

[@Resgerr]

If I didn’t know with scene to take a picture from a good idea is to take a picture with my iPhone or a little compact digital then I can see right away which is best .

[@helgividar]

Looks like a successful shootout to me. I would like to try something like this myself, by that I mean the medium format.

[@erwindegroot8760]

The Agfa's from the era where yours is from have a reputation for light leaks in the bellow. Go in a dark room, open the back of the camera and put a strong flashlight in the back of the camera. You should be able to see if there any light leaks in the bellow.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Done.... pinholes! Ouch

[@erwindegroot8760]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss Bummer

[@odukar2315]

A big motivation to go outside with an old 6x6 or 6x9 AGFA camera and a tripod making great images.

[@captaindebug]

Given it's age a hole in the bellows is a distinct possibility... with a touch of fabric paint it'll be as good as new.

[@nickmatthews4939]

Another 👍🏻s up video. We probably want the same team to win tomorrow 😉

[@Answersonapostcard]

Light could be coming through the bellows. Exposure spot on!

[@rawalker666]

wish i had some Medium Format film in stock to try out my old folding cameras not used them for ages might get some kentmere 400 to try in them

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

You should mate. That film is a bargain price

[@rawalker666]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss yeh may do soon it will be good in the Holga 120 too

[@soulclaimedking]

Sorry if I missed it but what was the reason for stopping down to like f32 and using a slow shutter?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

More depth of field. Get more in focus

[@soulclaimedking]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss i get that but would you have enough depth of field at f16?

[@Chillarn23]

Merry Christmas from Sweden ☺ Great as always.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Happy holidays!

[@CalumetVideo]

I mostly shoot 6x6, I do have a GW690 and use it to shoot 6x9.

[@Quark.Lepton]

Echoing the quite positive sentiments of others here and to say I find your vids just plain fabulous and amazingly helpful! Recently I’ve been torturing a Voigtländer Perkeo | - putting it through all sorts of contortions as you’ve prescribed to test its metal (and mine) and am quite proud of myself re the results I’ve achieved-all thanks to yourself! Gods but I’d love to trek about the countryside with you for a day! Unfortunately I’ve determined that the consistency and quality of the negatives developed by the local shop is far from satisfactory, so I’ve decided to learn to process them myself. I live in a tiny town called Lake Stevens in the state of Washington-nestled in the foothills of the Snohomish foothills and hauntingly beautiful. Anyway, thanks so much Rodger-can’t wait for further trips through your wondrous land of Medium Format!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks Quark. If you're ever my way let me know

[@digitalrex5]

I’ve been struggling with medium format recently…. I have a 645 folder that is old and does ok but I feel like if you are going to shoot medium format you want a better lens…. On the other hand I have a G690 which is a tank to take around…. And once you get the scans on Instagram or wherever I’m not sure how much you can tell it’s 6x9…. I keep tempting myself with a Pentax 645 or a TLR but I have too much gear as it is XD

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Depends if you are looking for top quality. I like shooting older cameras for their look, same as Holga and Pinhole too.

[@n9iui]

I feel sure that you’ll find that the light leak is from the bellows. Agfa/Ansco medium format cameras are known for having bellows made out of a cheap paper material and sooner or later, they ALL develop leaks. I love this line of cameras but have quit considering Agfa or Ansco. I have 3 or 4 of them and they all leak. Ive tried all kinds of products to try to repair them without success. I’ve found that Voigtlander and Ikon bellows are much more dependable.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yep. Found. Three tiny pinholes shining in the dark!

[@CarlB558]

Great video! Just shot 6×9 for the first time yesterday!

[@liveinaweorg]

Love my Agfa Isolette II but I gotta say my Mamiya C3 just makes me smile every time I look down into the viewfinder. I do like the look of the Record. Cheers Roger. Looks like it might need a service though, that Agfa Glue only gets worse.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Someone had a great idea of flossing with lighter fluid into the thread. But I think it needs to be taken apart and the grease totally taken off

[@mickcookson8009]

Great shots Roger, I have 3 6x9 camera's two folders and a GWS690111, like you I take them out and shoot them as much as I can, keep up the good work.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

The GWS appears to be popular in these comments. I've never used one

[@Vintage35MM]

Hi Roger, really impressed with the sharpness and exposure from that camera. If you find light leaks in the bellows what is the remedy. Are bellows repairable or do they need to be replaced? If replacement is even possible. Is is what keeps me away from cameras with bellows.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Fortunately these bellows are easy to replace if you find another broken camera cheap and take the bellows off! Failing that a bit of Liquid Rubber. I'll soon see.

[@tadeusz11000]

Any old film camera with bellows in first shoot can deliver great results, but a few uses down the line and the fabric of the bellows will reveal wear and tear and light leaks. It happened to me on my Mamiya 7, but sorted after a new bellows was fitted. Coincidentally, that light leak event was when I was in the IOW a few years ago and shooting that old windmill you are familiar with, Rog

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yep. I got pinholes! Lol

[@jonnoMoto]

@7:35 you were metering your own shadow

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

May have looked like it. The neg wasn't over exposed

[@Readbetweenthelines1]

Great vid! thanks for the focus on medium format. I got myself a very similar designed German camera off eBay and it will arrive in a bit. Super stoked to give it a go.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Enjoy!!

[@neilwalker9438]

Great video, thinking about your light leaks, maybe the aperture blades are sticky, just a thought. Keep up the great work 👍

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks Neil. I found three pinholes shining in the bellows!

[@Analogbrain]

Interesting video, and some really nice ideas and pictures, Roger! I should use these cameras more. Tomorrows gonna be a dream final for me! 👍

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Enjoy the final!

[@Uwe_Ludolf]

Fujifilm Provia also has no reciprocity failure until 120 seconds I believe.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Cheers. I don't know much about colour film

[@lensman5762]

Congratulations Roger. Beautiful photographs indeed. This is what photography is all about. None of that 100 MP sensor malarky, autofocus this and autofocus that, no iso zillion nonesense, no fly on the cow's arse focus mode. A simple mechanical film camera of over 70 years vintage, a roll of film and a lot of talent for good photography. This was my kind of photography, so I thank you. BTW you can regrease the focus helicoil. It is not difficult at all if one was willing to put a bit of time in it. Just make sure you measure the height of the lens cell to the base ( using a digital caliper ) when you have set it at infinity and after having removed the distance scale ring ( usually held by two small screws on the side of the ring ). You then return the cell to the same height that you measured ( that would be infinity focus ), and set the distance scale ring to infinty and lock up without turning the cell. I use loctite synthetic grease quite sparingly, just a smear and no more, This way grease stays where you have put it and doesn't travel along on to the shutter mechanism or cause haze on the lens elements. Sorry for another long winded post.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks Lensman. To be honest I doubt I'd be able to re grease it without messing it up! I tried it once in a Nettar and it never focused properly after that. I gave it away to a friend who could fix and keep it. And got another for £20! 😂

[@lensman5762]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss The trick is to make sure that the lens is set to infinity and is then reset to infinity and those two grub screws are correctly set, so the focusing ring does turn in synchro with the lens cell. I had to redo one of my Ensign Selfix 820s a few times before I got the knack of it.

[@l10industries]

Love the look of medium format with Ordinal. Nice and crispy 😋

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yes I've been enjoying the Roddy lately

[@klausmoritzpeitzsch690]

Great content as usual. Since I own several folding cameras but only one has a shutter working half way properly at least in warm temperatures, do you have any tips or contacts how or who cleans old shutters? The grease inside has hardened and the long exposure times do not work and are stuck or off by a lot. Do you know if it is worth a try to ask an horologist/clockmaker?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Have a look on KZbin you'll find a lot of people fixing cameras maybe message someone on there.

[@klausmoritzpeitzsch690]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss Yes, sure. But I trust you, not them ;-)

[@brineb58]

I love 6x9!!! It's hard for me as a Yank to think in meters, but I muddle through it ... hyperfocal is your best friend!!!

[@robbiemer8178]

I was taught a long time ago to use my height as a rough measure. And I am also in the US so I don't generally think in meters. But I know how tall I am--in feet and meters--and for medium short distances, I can estimate pretty well by thinking about how many times I could lay down between the camera and my subject. That gets me close enough that I can then use the DOF scale to make acceptably focused photos. For the last several years I have been using a small clip on rangefinder unit. Not sure about brand but it's from the 50s and was made in Germany so it reads in meters. Not very expensive.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Same as Robbie. I'm just under 6ft so I imagine laying down for feet measuring ha ha. And meters I have a meter stick I use a lot for cutting frame mats so I know the size.

[@chesslover8829]

Wonderful compositions!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks

[@tumaprints]

Oh, here in US Rodinal cannot be shipped. You have to go pick it up from a supplier. Tried Freestyle and B&H but neither will ship it. I currently use Arista and Illford developers.

[@l10industries]

Adorama will ship it from my experience. You can ship just about anything in the US with the right paperwork. I work for a DHL subcontractor, you would be amazed at the sort of stuff we move.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

That's tough! Why won't they ship Rodinal?

[@tumaprints]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss I guess there are a couple sites who will ship it, Thank you for the info David Masson Not sure why a lot of them won't.

[@Guairenito]

Freestyle ships Rodinal by ground. I always buy it from them and just checked again to confirm and yes, they ship it.

[@erikehrling4715]

Is the light leak in the position of the red window?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

No Erike. Found Three tiny pinholes shining in the dark!

[@RickMahoney2013]

Wonderful job Mate

[@gregorywalker4997]

lovely and inspiring!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thank you so much!

[@aristoioannidis7490]

Thanks Roger. Your segments 120 and this 6x9 are wonderful.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks