In a digital age where mirrorless cameras boast almost too-perfect image quality, many photographers yearn for the charm of film photography’s imperfections. If you're drawn to the allure of the film look, vintage vibes, and the aesthetic of grain and grunge, this guide is for you. Here, we'll walk through creating a 35mm vintage look lens for Sony E-mount cameras—a fun project that blends the old with the new.
Supplies You'll Need:
Before we dive into the steps, here are the supplies you'll need. These are affiliate links, which means if you use them and make a purchase, I may earn a commission.
Kodak Funsaver Camera (NEW): https://amzn.to/4agrKZj
Mini Phillips Head: https://amzn.to/3vLZtum
Sony E-Mount Body Cap: https://amzn.to/4cJybWr
Super Glue (Gel): https://amzn.to/4czrpCB
Hole Saw Drill Bit (the RIGHT kind): https://amzn.to/3J2Z4XF
Best Gaff Tape: https://amzn.to/4aEs9UY
Snips: https://amzn.to/3vASPXX
Prefer to watch the video instead?
https://youtu.be/85anPWgMwaQ?si=YAU2P3o_Gab8Tqj-
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Acquire a Kodak Funsaver Camera: Either buy a new post-2015 Kodak Funsaver disposable camera or obtain a used one from a local film developing shop.
2. Remove the Film (if necessary): If the camera is new, cover the lens with tape to avoid exposure, and shoot the entire roll down to one. This prepares the camera for disassembly while saving the film for later use.
3. Open Up the Camera: Carefully open the camera by detaching the tabs around the outside. Avoid touching any metal parts to prevent electric shocks from the flash's capacitor. (Ask Me How I Know 😄)
4. Extract the Lens Housing: Locate the lens housing secured by two tiny screws. Remove these screws to free the lens housing.
5. Prepare the Sony E-Mount Body Cap: Find the center of the body cap. Drill a hole to fit the lens, preferably by drilling in reverse to avoid damaging the cap.
6. Modify the Lens Housing: Use snips to trim around the housing, leaving enough flat plastic to glue to the body cap. Ensure it fits within the outer ring of the body cap.
7. Attach the Lens to the Body Cap: Apply super glue to the housing's edges and affix it to the body cap. Hold firmly to ensure a strong bond. For an extra vintage flair, consider adding gaff tape around the body cap.
8. Enjoy Your New Lens: With the lens securely attached, your DIY vintage look lens is ready for use. Embrace the imperfections and unique aesthetic it brings to your photos.
Tips for Using Your New Lens
- The lens has an approximate aperture of f/10 to f/11, with an angle of view close to 35mm.
- Expect some fuzziness and vignetting, especially at the frame's edges, adding to the vintage character.
- For optimal focus, position subjects between 4 and 11 feet away.
- The simplicity of use allows anyone to capture images with a distinctive aesthetic without worrying about focus or aperture—just adjust the shutter speed and ISO as needed.
Creating this lens might not be for every professional assignment, but it's a delightful experiment that adds a unique tool to your photography kit. Whether for personal projects or particular client work, this vintage lens can provide a refreshing break from the clinical perfection of modern digital imagery.
Remember, this is a creative project that involves some risk, especially when handling electronic components. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
We’d love to see the results of your DIY vintage lens project! Share your experiences and the images you capture with this charming addition to your photographic arsenal.
