Well, I’ll admit, I should have seen this coming. We’ve seen a good number of Kickstarters hit the market attaching Instax backs medium format cameras to cameras like the RB67 and the Hasselblad 500 series; it was only a matter of time somebody would make one for 4×5 cameras. Leave it to Lomography to fill that gap. On Wednesday, September 2nd, Lomography announced the LomoGraflok. A Graflok styled film back to convert your 4×5 camera into a tack sharp instant film camera.
Now, instant film is no stranger to 4×5 cameras. Photographers often used peel-apart film such as the beloved Fujifilm FP-100c (#savepackfilm!). With continuous efforts from Doc Kaps and the Instant One, I believe Pack film will have difficulty reclaiming its place in the world. However, I believe this is a fantastic compromise.
How Does the LomoGraflok Work?
Lomography partnered with large format camera professionals in the industry and designed a 4×5 to Fujifilm Instax wide back that is compatible to support Graflok designed holders. According to the how-to video, Lomography includes an additional focusing plate to adjust for the additional 19mm flange distance for the Instax film plane. Then, when the photographer has achieved focus and locked, the film back is loaded, and the film slide is removed. The shot is fired, then at a button press, the Instax Wide film is ejected with an electronic motor.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
- Film Type: Fujifilm Instax Wide Film
- Exposure Area: 99 mm × 62 mm
- Mount type: Standard 4×5 Graflok Back
- Film Ejection: Motorized
- Batteries: 6 V (4 × 1.5 V AA)
- Focusing Mask: Includes built-in frame
- Focal Plane Shifted: Approx. 19 mm backward, compensated by focusing mask
- Dimensions: 181 mm (H) × 120 mm (W) × 50 mm (D) Weight: Approx. 500 g
LomoGraflok Sample Images
Where Can I get the LomoGraflok?
Traditionally, in these types of releases, Lomography announces with a Kickstarter. However, this product is available as a preorder directly on Lomography’s online store. Right now, the LomoGraflok is discounted 10% off with an introductory price of $134. Its retail price will be $149. Lomography expects to have the LomoGraflok in photographers’ hands by April 2021.
As a result of the recent popularity in 4×5 cameras, due to 3D printing, builders are jumping on this opportunity to design new products to go along with new LomoGraflok. Steve Lloyd of Chroma Camera, has come out with new designs to support the LomoGraflok.
I currently own a Shen Hao, and I was told my camera is compatible with this back. So I intend to get my hands on this! If you’re just as excited about this product and considering to purchase a 4×5 large format camera, please consider using our affiliate link through KEH Camera.
Images Courtesy: Lomography
Bill Manning
Host and Executive Producer for Studio C-41
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