This article shares personal musings captured through the lens of a vintage Nikkormat FT2, showcasing urban moments in July while using Kodak Tri-X 400 film.
After some time away from using my vintage cameras, I decided it was the perfect opportunity to dust off my Nikkormat FT2. Equipped with the Nikkor O 35mm f/2 lens, I set out for a walk downtown, driven by a short errand with my brother related to managing our mom's estate. Once that business was done, I hit the streets to capture the essence of the urban environment in July.
This summer has primarily revolved around shooting with 100 ISO films. However, I switched gears for this outing, opting to shoot with Kodak Tri-X 400 film. The FT2, an analog icon from the mid-1970s, felt like the right companion for the day. The feel of mechanics clicking into place, the tactile nature of film – all of it enhances the experience of capturing images compared to digital.
Camera and Lens Specifications
The Nikkormat FT2 is known for its solid build and reliable performance. It features a full-frame 35mm format, with the shutter speed range from 1/1000 to 1 second plus B for bulb exposures. Photographers will appreciate the large, bright viewfinder and the ability to use a variety of Nikkor lenses, making it versatile for different shooting styles. On my outing, the Nikkor O 35mm f/2 lens delivered impressive sharpness, particularly for street scenes and portraits alike.
When it comes to utilizing the FT2's manual settings, understanding your light exposure is crucial. A typical starting point for shooting black-and-white film like Kodak Tri-X 400 is an exposure setting of f/8 at 1/500 second in bright daylight. It allows a good balance to capture detail without overexposing highlights. However, with film photography, consider carrying a light meter for precise adjustments.
Capturing Urban Moments
Throughout my excursion, I focused on urban environments and the people within them. These moments were inspired not just by the architecture, but also by the emotions and stories playing out in front of me. The Nikkormat, while simple and straightforward, allowed me to be fully immersed in the act of shooting rather than getting distracted by complicated settings. I often switched between different aperture settings to achieve either a sharp focus on subjects or a beautiful bokeh.
For instance, while capturing a view of the Osgoode Station entrance, I positioned myself to include some foreground elements. I shot at f/4, which softened the background while keeping the entrance crisp and detailed. This approach not only adds depth to the composition but also tells a story of movement and transit.
Among the many stops, the Campbell House Museum provided a beautiful historical contrast to modern buildings nearby. The soft light against the brick facade created a perfect backdrop for experimenting with shadows and textures. For this shot, I used a slower shutter speed at f/8 to pull in more ambient light, which is something I often do when the sunlight is a bit harsh.
Technical Insights and Final Thoughts
The joy of using film like Kodak Tri-X 400 lies not only in capturing images but in the process itself. Developing the film can result in surprises; I used Ilfotec HC in a dilution of 1+31 for processing. This combination gives remarkable contrast and sharpness to the final images. It’s important to keep notes on your development times and temperatures, as consistency results in better prints.
My experience with the Nikkormat FT2 left me with a longing to explore more of the city and capture its spirit through film. The weight and mechanics of the camera felt satisfying, allowing me to immerse fully in the art of photography. The final images carry a nostalgic quality, reminiscent of moments frozen in time, inviting viewers to imagine their own stories within them.
As I look ahead, I plan to return to these scenes with a deeper understanding of composition and light, continuing my journey through the lens of this remarkable camera. The vintage aesthetic, combined with the beautiful Tri-X film, invites a slower, more thoughtful approach to photography. This lovely balance sets the stage for meaningful storytelling through street photography.
Here’s to more urban adventures with the FT2 and finding beauty in the everyday.
