Testing out cameras has become a way of life for Meghan and I, as such a variety pass through the store. Everything from odd little ones to “higher end” sought after ones – we always find ourselves with an abundance of different cameras and curiosity about their performance. Trying out the delicious snacks that Vancouver has to offer is also a way of life for us and generally we try to incorporate the two outings as much as possible. We are always seeking out the best croissant in town, but we try not to limit ourselves to only this particular pastry….
Recently-ish (well, February…) we decided to Hot Chocolate Festival our way around Coal Harbour and downtown. I felt this was the perfect opportunity to test out the Tower 50, which is a sweet little 1950’s 35mm point and shoot. I have always been a Tower camera enthusiast. There is something about Art Deco influenced design that keeps attracting me to cameras of this period. This Tower has an aperture range of f2.8 – f16, so the darkness and clouds we were subjected to did not present a problem. As far as ease of use I felt this camera to be very straight forward – when using some of these old cameras it can often take many steps to get from one exposure to the next. However, this one was simple; dial in your settings, push the shutter, then advance using the advance wheel – it even stops at each frame for you.
When I got my photos back I did find they looked under exposed. So perhaps upon reflection the shutter speeds were a little off. Despite this I did have fun using this camera but do regret not sticking to my own rule of this camera belonging to the ‘fair weather camera’ category, meaning do not use it on anything but a sunny day. Though if I stuck to that rule I’d never get to try any of the vintage point and shoot cameras that cross my path – Vancouver does like its cloudy rainy days.
Now is perfect timing to try your hand at a using a vintage point and shoot, the sun is showing itself more and more every day. If you are not in possession of one of these cameras we have a few here in the store for purchase. A similar type camera that we currently have and needs a home is the Agfa Silette 35mm, which sells for $40.
Here are a few photos I took with the Tower 50…(and one Meghan took of me!)
