Lomo Smena 8M

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Lomo Smena 8M

The Smena Hold ...

This a Russian consumer camera made by LOMO. It is mostly constructed of plastic. This Smena 8M was given to me by a friend who knew I collected cameras. Well, I couldn't resist of course and had to run film through it. It was kind of fun going out with this camera. I had the feeling it was just a toy. It as some "programs' or settings for different situations.

The Smena is marked with icons around the lens assembly. Cloudy, sunny, landscape, people.... You learn fast enough to use the Smena grip... That is, you have to hold it so the shutter doesn't accidentally hit your finger while travelling up. Funny, no? Well, it hurts.... the exposures.

When I received the prints from the lab I was impressed. That little - diminutive - coated T-43 lens turned out to be a big performer. This "toy" can take very nice pictures. There were a few double exposures though. This camera has no lock to prevent double exposures, you can trip the shutter as often as you want. You have to remember to advance the film immediately, and cock the shutter later, you know, keep track of things.

Amazing how my opinion of this camera changed after using it. It requires some precautions but produces very, very nice pictures - overall a nice little snapper. And it's kinda cute too. I will post some pictures as soon as I can scan them...


















Last photo at bottom shows the film advance thumb-wheel on the right. 
Surprizingly it is very comfortable, quick and smooth. On the left the frame counter.

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