I shot a roll with a twin-lens reflex camera (TLR) for the first time this month. But long before I used a TLR in real life, I loved the idea of it – so much so that I thought the reality was almost bound to disappoint. What camera could possibly live up to such high expectations. Enter: the Minolta Autocord.
There are two types of film cameras for me that hold a really special experience, Rangefinders, and Twin-Lens Reflex’. I find that especially the latter offers me a very unique perspective, not only on photography but on reality itself.
Being in photography for more than 50 years, I’ve had the pleasure of using many cameras. For years, whenever I wanted to shoot with a twin-lens reflex camera, my camera of choice was always my Rolleiflex. Recently, a Voigtlander Superb became available to me, and the price was fantastic, so I immediately jumped on the offer.
I have a Microcord & Rolleiflex; two fully functioning Twin Lens Reflex (TLR) cameras, with one of them being ‘influenced’ rather heavily by the other. I’d like to introduce you to each of them and to highlight the differences, similarities and practical features of both.
I had purchased my Minolta Autocord CDS cameras about three months ago. The previous owner didn’t know if it was working, even after giving them some tips to check. However, I took a chance and bought it. To my surprise, when it arrived, the shutter worked great, and the aperture moved as it should. A good friend told me the focus was notorious for hanging up, but It moved smoothly and focused well. The meter didn’t have a battery, so I purchased a battery for the light meter. When I installed the battery, it took some time for it to react to light. Eventually, it did and seemed close to accurate. My wife and I planned a few days away so I was excited to take it for a test drive.
