Exploring Unique Camera Innovations and Creative Projects
As camera enthusiasts, our passion for photography extends beyond just work hours. It often shows up in unexpected places, like on social media where we come across fascinating content created by other passionate individuals. This weekend, we thought it would be fun to share some of the most interesting videos we’ve seen with our audience.
Review of I’m Back Film
One of the more unusual products that caught our attention is the I’m Back Film. This film-shaped canister promises to transform traditional 35mm film cameras into digital ones by slotting into the film spool and placing a Four Thirds sensor behind the shutter. While the company wasn’t able to provide a review unit for the launch, YouTuber Clint Basinger, known as LGR, backed the Kickstarter and received the I’m Back Film kit in January.
Although LGR is best known for reviewing retro computers and games, he provided a detailed look at how the I’m Back Film works. The results, however, were less than impressive. He struggled to get the device to fit in a wide range of film cameras and encountered significant issues with image quality. Despite this, his review was thorough, and we would still be interested in testing the product ourselves. If anyone from I’m Back is reading this, we’re eager to hear from you.
Unorthodox Cinematography in 28 Years Later
Another intriguing project is the cinematography used in Danny Boyle’s new movie, 28 Years Later. We’ve previously covered how the film was shot using iPhones, but Sony Pictures Entertainment has released a new video that offers even more insight. In this video, Boyle and his longtime collaborator Anthony Dod Mantle discuss using drones to capture untouched landscapes, the decision to use a smartphone, and the complex rigs they developed to turn the iPhone into a proper movie camera.
This trend of studios releasing deep-dive videos on filmmaking techniques continues to grow. We hope to see more of these insights, perhaps even for the next Christopher Nolan movie, which is reportedly the first feature-length blockbuster shot on IMAX film cameras.
A DIY Battery Solution for Cameras
Most photographers have wished their camera batteries lasted longer, especially during long shoots or when away from a power source. YouTuber Evan Monsoma took a different approach by creating a DIY battery solution for his Sony a6600. Instead of purchasing a commercial video battery, he used a 20V power tool battery and built an enclosure to mount it on his camera.
The result was impressive: he managed to record over 15 hours of video with a 5 Amp hour battery, compared to just 3 hours with the original battery. While the project is fascinating to watch, it’s important to note that this is not something everyone should attempt. It’s great to see someone who clearly knows what they’re doing take on such a challenge, but it’s probably best left to experts.
These creative projects and innovations highlight the ever-evolving world of photography and filmmaking. Whether through unconventional tools or DIY solutions, there’s always something new to explore and learn.