How to Build Your ObscuraFlex™ Kit

Confused about where to start? Not sure what the benefits of a smartphone viewfinder are? The explanation below should help familiarize you with the various modules required to start shooting the ObscuraFlex way. 

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    What is ObscuraFlex?

    ObscuraFlex™ is a viewfinder adapter system that lets you harness the power of your smartphone or digital camera when shooting with large-format cameras.

    For Film Photographers

    ObscuraFlex replaces the traditional composition and focusing method of using a dark cloth and magnifying loupe. Think of it as a more flexible and powerful replacement for the Polaroid test shot.

    For Digital Photographers

    Use the system to shoot digital stills or video with an expanding range of vintage large-format cameras that might otherwise be gathering dust. Capturing (not imitating) the look and feel of vintage photography.

    For Everyone

    Whether you want to shoot film or digital, ObscuraFlex can make large-format photography easier and cheaper. As a smart viewfinder when shooting film or digital the system can provide a right-side-up image to aid in composition, a higher level of focusing accuracy, and digital record keeping to help reduce wasted exposures. It can also be used to shoot endless digital images... when you've run out of film, or when you just want to shoot for fun. Either way, it will change the way you think about working (or playing) with your vintage camera.

    From the historical term "CAMERA OBSCURA" the names incorporates the FLEXIBILITY, POWER, and CONVENIENCE of the modern smartphone into large format vintage photography. 

    With custom designed hardware manufactured to order, and cutting edge focusing screen technology, your phone captures the image projected from the lens exactly the way a sheet of film will see it, with all its optical characteristics retained. 

    For Polaroid Land Camera Lovers

    For these cameras which simply do not have film available today, ObscuraFlex has stepped in to allow Polaroid lovers to continue shooting with their prized vintage Land Cameras.

    The ObscuraFlex™ system consists of three basic elements: 

    Camera Adapter Body 

    Designed from the ground up to fit each type of vintage camera, this is the core of the ObscuraFlex™ kit. 

    The ObscurFlex™ adapter body is the "camera obscura" or in English, the "dark chamber" where the magic happens.

    Made to order from solid Nylon with a textured finish, parts are made using high-end rapid prototyping technology, not consumer level 3D printing like many DIY camera accessories.

    Twist-Lock Cradle

    If you have a smartphone or compact digital camera on the ever expanding list of supported devices you will need a Twist-Lock Cradle to match.

    This will lock into the adapter and is held securely in place with a locking screw.

    If your device is not currently supported, read this FAQ to test for general compatibility before attempting any DIY solution.

    ObscuraFlex™ Focusing Screen

    The "secret sauce" at the heart of ObscuraFlex™.

    The proprietary hand crafted focusing screens harness the image projected by your vintage camera's lens and allow it be photographed by your digital device. This screen technology is constantly being refined, researched and improved.

    Photographers shooting 4x5 film may choose to use a camera-specific ObscuraFlex with their existing ground glass or fresnel screen. This method is less suited to digital image capture (due to the grainy image and extreme vignette) but provides a more traditional focusing option at a reduced startup cost.

    Other Accessories

    As an avid photographer myself I have created a number of accessories to complete your ObscuraFlex kit. From my custom Twist-Lock bayonet lens mount system and traditional lens boards, to grips, bluetooth remotes, and optical viewfinders.

    I'm always tinkering and exploring new ideas, so check back often. And if you have an idea for an accessory you can't find anywhere, shoot me email.

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