The mesmerising smoothness of photos by Rolleiflex 2.8D TLR

It’s Christmas Eve and I got a half-day off work. So I will spend some time updating Film Look and tidying some photos for more blog posts. For the last two years, the frequency of me going out for shoot had decreased dramatically. Hence, the number of blog posts has dropped from twice per week in 2016 & 2017 to once per month at best to once per several months…I hope I can blog more in 2020!

While looking through my piles of unpublished photos, I found a few nice ones taken by my Rolleiflex 2.8D a few months ago.

Although it is expected of medium format cameras to generate sharp and smooth images, I am still mesmerised by it. I believe the look is something current digital cameras cannot achieve without looking overly ‘digital’ or artificial.

Fuji Pro400H 120mm

Rolleiflex TLR does not have double-exposure function. The image above was an accidental double-exposure. I did not know how it happened. After owning this camera for almost 2 years, I still do not know how to intentionally create double-exposure with it. Except to reload the exposed film back in.

It’s so rare to see vintage car/motorcycle in Singapore! When I spot one, I am sure to capture it.

After a prolong period of hibernation from street photography, I have lost all the grit to stand in front of the subjects to take photos of them. If you are currently into street photography, never stop the momentum. Otherwise, you will be like me, and have to pick it up again. Other good and crowded places for street photography in Singapore are Chinatown and Little India. In these two places, you will be able to be discreet.

Just enjoy the bokeh. Twin-lens reflex is not the best camera for portrait but it is more suitable for quick street shots. I think Hasselblad is better for very sharp and 3D subject and distinct bokeh effect. For example, the photo below was taken by Hasselblad 500C/M. Can you see the subtle difference?