5 Frames with a Nikonos IV-A – By Ivan Mendez

Film was the beginning of my love for photography. About eight years ago, and already working 100% digital, it happened. I went back to shooting film. I have a humble assortment of cameras, a Polaroid m80, a Mamiya c220, a Rollei 35s a couple of Nikon and recently received a Nikonos IV-A

Brooke Sterling made me reflect on the importance of embracing your own process so I decided to embark myself in understanding the Nikonos IV-A during our Christmas break. This is the classic Nikon underwater camera, built like a tank and needs no additional housing for depths to 160 feet (50m).

The 35mm lens, which I found awkward at the beginning, is sharp and may be used on land, sea or air. Its been great to use it in the dirty, dusty and wet environments found in our island.

Submerging such a simple, basic piece of equipment was a hard decision to make, but as I read “seal and pressure tested by KEH camera-1998 ”, I was filled with courage and proceeded.

One interesting part of the process is that you really cannot see through the lens. You must pre-select your focus distance and your aperture, as working in a range finder.

I was reassured as I got incredible results, shooting near the sea, following a different set of rules in terms of framing and composition.

Thanks for letting me share these pictures with you. They might not be Pulitzer pictures, but I really enjoyed the experience.

If you’d like to see more of my work, please follow me on: www.visionfotograika.tumblr

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