Oh boy. I’m unintentionally becoming a camera nerd. Meet my new friend, the Diana F+ camera! I LOVE IT! Created in 2007 by Lomography as an homage to the cult 1960′s version of the same name, the Diana is considered essential to analogue photography. It was reproduced by the company with all the classic features of the original: a plastic body, simple shutter, colour dripping lens, and a soft focus. It looks like a kid’s toy, doesn’t it?
If there is one thing I discovered from the research I did on the camera, it’s that the Diana F+ is capable of producing absolutely stunning lo-fi photos. Really, they are SICK. The images you can obtain are raw and gritty, and you can achieve amazing effects like multiple or partial exposures, panoramic, pinhole, and colour wash. As far as I know, you can’t create these kind of images with a digital camera on it’s own (ie. without photoshop).
I love the amazing retro flash and colour wash option. The camera came with a rainbow of gels for the flash (thrilled) as well as instructions and a book of short stories and images using the Diana F+. I’m still learning how to use this camera, and it kills me that I can’t ”check” how my photos look instantly. I’m excited to develop the film! The camera needs 120 film, however it is capable of using 35mm film (normal film) or instant film (ie. FUJI instax film which my other sweet camera uses) with the purchase of specific attachments. Seriously, my mind is blown from all the things I can do/attach to this sucker. While the price of film for this camera isn’t bad ($12 for a box of 3 rolls), there’s also the cost and hassle of finding a place to develop the 120 film which I predict will baffle the local Shoppers Drug Mart photo clerk. But hey, I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it. For now, photo-taking time!
If you don’t like the classic colour design of the camera, you’ve got some crazy alternatives. Um, zebra or neon pink anyone? Or maybe a mini? The original Diana F+ sells for $89.99 and the reason why I didn’t spring an extra $10-20 bucks for a more unique one was because I got this entire set for $32 USD. Yes, that is insane. I was surfing camera sites a month ago and was fortunate to be in the right place at the right time. I love when that happens!
If you ask me whether I love the Diana or Fuji Instax more, I honestly couldn’t choose. They are both fantastic. The Diana is much more complex and there is a steep learning curve. I’m more confused than not right now. But if you are looking for a unique camera, I’d definitely suggest you buy either one!
Visit the Diana F+ by Lomography site here.
