ttv for....

I was going to say for dummies but how 'bout for the girl or guy who doesn't bother with the logistics of ttv photography and just goes at it?
I want to mention again that I'm not an expert on ttv photography. I do not know the history or where it originated but I'm sure you could find out by the powers of Google. I learned about ttv from this tutorial. I would highly suggest you go there for a legit learning on the subject. :)

It begins with an old camera.
I use an Argus 75. I found this guy at my favorite little shop here in Anchorage. I know I spent more than what it was worth on Ebay but I like the idea of supporting the local guys rather than an iffy deal on Ebay....not that Ebay is a bad idea. I've gotten a couple of really great cameras on the web. It's the shipping time versus instant gratification and a little human interaction.

Brought him home and clean him up a little. The viewfinder was in super condition with the perfect amount of "dust" or "noise". It's the little black spots you find around the viewfinder, all the nitty gritty goodness that makes ttv shots even better. What I don't recommend is a dual lens camera that has scratches in the glass. I purchased a Kodak Duaflex that seemed to be in good condition but after topping it with a contraption and taking a few photos, I noticed a weird blur that distorted my image in a way that was not appealing, to me at least. After looking closer at the glass, I noticed a few deep scratches. That camera now sits nicely on top of some books to be admired.

Let's talk contraption.
Mine is not pretty. Be warned.

I did not measure the poster board. I couldn't be bothered with a ruler since I was so excited about taking my first shot. I took argus, laid it on it's side on top of the paper and encased the camera on all four sides. This left me with some what creased lines, which I further creased with a bone folder after removing the camera from the paper. I also cut away the excess paper, vertically. Leave your contraption which should resemble a rectangular tube, long for now.

Before taping the rectangle together, I wrapped it around argus and stuck my digital camera down into the tube and started (automatically) focusing in on a subject. I could tell right away my tube was too long, so I snipped a couple of inches away and tried focusing in again. (This is where you should head over to Russ' tutorial). The total measurement of my contraption is 12 1/2". After finding my focus, I cut my tube down and went to town with some black linen tape I had in my drawer. I would think any good tape would work. You'll certainly want something stronger than scotch tape.
The cutouts around the lens and side circular knob where after-thoughts, hence the jagged cuts.

Let's take some photos.
So now you've got your contraption made and fitted to your camera. Find a subject, and shoot!
Try a variety things, people, places. You'll quickly learn what works and what doesn't.
 

I think the reason why I love ttv so much is the whole learning process. It opened my eyes to different things, sort of made me see the world differently. I paid more attention to details.
This is why my tutorial is some what vague. I'm sure you were hoping for the exact science but the beauty is the process. I encourage you to spend more time behind the lens with your face stuck down in your contraption than researching on the web and worrying too much if you're doing it correctly. Snicker at yourself when you notice people looking at you funny because you will get looks. :)

If you have any more questions, I'd be happy to answer them.
Here's some ttv links I suggest you check out.
Russ Morris Ttv Tutorial
Through the Viewfinder Flickr group
If you're crafty with layers in Photoshop, you can easily turn your photos into fake ttv's.
Here's a Flickr groupthat has a ton of ttv frames you can use. Just be sure to credit that person properly.

Have fun! Keep me posted on your progress.
Happy weekend-
Tina

Comments

[Rita]

Great info Tina! I'm not brave enough to try tha yet (maybe with an action, lol) but I love your photography!

[Francine C]

I recently scored a TLR at the flea market and am really starting to get into TTV. I still need to make a contraption though.Your stuff is pretty awesome! Thanks for the tutorial :)

[vee]

my contraption looks terrible but i need to update it so it is more portable...
have a great w.e chick :)

[charlane]

I need to get one but I feel the same way about ebay...I would rather support a local place. you all have such great fun with them.

[Jacqueline]

Gina i never knew what Ttv was till i found you on etsy and i just fell in love with your Ttv photos! You inspire me! I love your tutorial and will go through all the links and read every detail tips you have here. Thank you soo much for making this!

I don't know much about cameras or photography. In fact, i'm still trying my best to improve my picture taking skills. Im looking into this twin lens refeclt camera call Blackbird fly.

Have a lovely merry happy weekend and lots of love to you!

[Kelly R]

WOW!! So cool!

[kristi]

i want to make out with you.

[Jaime Lee]

Tina...what a great info, at least now I have learn something new :)

Have a great week ahead!

[Lisabeth]

you're awesome Tina. love, love, love the way you see the world.
nice tutorial.

[mR]

oh I think you have pushed me to finally rig mine up and give it a whirl.
Thanks!
I am super excited!!

[Alicia]

This post is exactly what I needed to read to understand how to use this type of camera! I'm on the lookout... trying to decide if I should just get one off of ebay, because vintage is almost always overpriced in nyc... I cannot wait to get and follow your steps! Thanks for sharing! Beautiful pictures also!