Manual Photography: PENTAX K1000

Many months ago I acquired a manual camera from a neighbor who was moving.

I used a 35mm black and white film and finally received my prints back.

The prints processed by Fuji in a plant in South Carolina, came with a note that said that I had light leak (fog) and that I should be more careful when loading and unloading film. Not surprised because while doing both those tasks, I felt very shaky and unsure of what I was doing even though I had watched you-tube tutorials over and over again.

It was almost comical learning about the PENTAX K1000 because it is so incredibly manual. Everything is loaded, clicked, moved, focused, etc. by hand. My digital-photo loving self was rather surprised and excited by the prospect of so much manual-ness.

Even with such grainy quality and bad lighting, all the prints feel so satisfying. Almost artsy.

That’s my sister up there with sparklers at night. And really excited to see this lovely rose that Dev grew; I think it was red.

This first film was an introduction to the camera. She told me how she works and what her particular likes and dislikes are. I have another B&W film that’s almost ready for processing. That one might not be much better though because I hadn’t seen these prints when I took most of those pictures. Nonetheless, I am excited to see the results.

Overall, I am happy to have discovered this lovely camera. With the amount of money it costs to buy the film and develop it, it certainly makes me pause before I click. And let’s not forget the waiting that goes into seeing just how the picture turned out. I feel so virtuous all of a sudden. ha! The kids are learning also that not all pictures are ready as soon as they are taken.

Can’t wait to share more in the future.