Blind Photography Podcast: Episode 4 Notes:: The Kodak Retina IIIc Saga and Comparing Classic Cameras as a Visually Impaired Photographer

Duration: 30 minutes

Host: Jefferson Davis

Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the trials and triumphs of working with vintage cameras as a visually impaired photographer. The spotlight is on the Kodak Retina IIIc, where I share my journey of combining two units to create one functional camera. I also compare the Retina series to the Voigtlander IIa, weighing their pros and cons for visually impaired users. Plus, a surprising moment at the park when a local resident’s question catches me off guard.

Key Topics:

1. The Kodak Retina IIIc Saga
   • The challenge: Working with two Kodak Retina IIIc cameras to build one reliable unit.
   • Insights into the repair process, including sourcing parts and troubleshooting vintage camera quirks.
   • Why the Retina IIIc remains a beloved choice for film photography enthusiasts despite its complexities.
2. Kodak Retina vs. Voigtlander IIa: A Visually Impaired Perspective
   • Kodak Retina Series:
     • Positives: Compact design, sharp Schneider-Kreuznach lenses, and reliable light meters (when functional), and built in rangefinder.
     • Negatives: Fiddly controls, complex folding mechanism, and the cocking rack that seems to be their achilies heel.
   • Voigtlander IIa:
     • Positives: Intuitive controls, larger and brighter viewfinder, and robust build quality.
     • Negatives: Less common lens options, no rangefinder, and no light meter.
   • Accessibility considerations: How tactile feedback, button size, and viewfinder clarity impact usability for visually impaired photographers.
3. Blindsided at the Park
   • A lighthearted recounting of an unexpected question from a local resident while shooting at a park.
   • Reflections on how public interactions shape the experience of photography as a visually impaired person.
   • Tips for navigating curiosity and misconceptions with confidence and humor.

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https://www.blindphotography.us/blog

In this episode, I discuss the perils of ordering vintage cameras on eBay, Film Camera News, and life updates. The Kodak Retina IIIc is a beautiful piece of photographic history, a folding camera from the 1950s that promises sharp images and a nostalgic shooting experience. With its sleek design, Xenon f/2 lens, and uncoupled light meter, it’s a gem for collectors and film photography enthusiasts like me. However, my journey to acquire a working Retina IIIc has been nothing short of a rollercoaster, filled with anticipation, frustration, and a few hard-learned lessons about buying vintage cameras online that I should have already grasped. Let me take you through my saga, from the thrill of clicking “Bid Now” on eBay to the heartbreak of a broken cocking rack.

In this episode of Blind Photography, I take some time to discuss what has been happening in our lives here in the stunningly beautiful and vast state of Arizona. I delve deeply into the experience of becoming legally blind and the myriad aftereffects that accompany such a significant life change. The support I have received from my family, friends, and strangers has truly surpassed anything that society itself has offered in terms of assistance and understanding. The fact that I am now legally blind is something that cannot be understated—it has reshaped my entire world. My cane, much like my phone, has become an essential tool that accompanies me everywhere I go, helping me navigate this new chapter in my life.

I want to pose a thought-provoking question to you, my audience: If your family and/or loved ones had to choose three meaningful things to place in a box that truly represent who you are, what do you think they would select?

After catching up on the realities of being blind, I transitioned into an exciting discussion about cameras, film, photography, and our little vacation to the breathtaking Grand Canyon, as well as our visit to the stunning Bryce Canyon in Utah. Of course, I took along the Zeiss Ikon Super Ikonta with me; that camera chewed through medium format film faster than I could load it! I also brought my Proud Chrome Six, which I will be reviewing soon, and my beloved Voigtlander Vito IIa, an essential tool that has become nearly indispensable for this blind photographer.

I may not need to see the exposure settings, but I can feel the reassuring clicks and know precisely where the shutter speed and aperture settings are. I set it to infinity for most of my work, cock the shutter, and press the button. While it may not boast the best lens in the world, it is indeed fantastic for its time and does a remarkable job for a four-element lens.

In next week's episode, my lovely wife, Deana, will be joining me to answer some funny questions about what life is like with a blind man, or rather, her blind husband. It promises to be a wonderfully entertaining episode. If you have not subscribed to our channel already, I encourage you to do so! We have some incredibly exciting news coming your way soon that you won't want to miss.