Sputnik (medium format stereo camera)

[tjaded]

I just got a Sputnik camera. I've been wanting one for some time now--I really like 3-D/stereo photography but was never really happy with the half of a 35mm frame size. Unfortunately, the Sputnik is leaving a lot to be desired. I knew I was in for some modification, but frankly the thing is really not made well at all. I ran a roll through today...we shall see if the results are any good. I'm hoping it will be better than I am expecting (I've read really good things about them). Anyway, this is one of my typical posts with no real point. I guess if there are any APUGgers that have a Sputnik I would love to hear any tips/thoughts/etc. I really do wish there was a quality medium format stereo camera!

[ntenny]

Nothing to add, but I'm curious to hear about how it works out for you when you do get to review the results of the first roll. I feel the same way---the world really needs stereo medium format---and I've long had a bit of gadget lust towards the Sputnik for that reason.

-NT

[Marco B]

This company makes a stereo camera, although it is probably not what you are looking for (wet plate I guess), but still nice to see:

http://www.starcameracompany.com/

See the "Scovil Style Stereo Camera" in the index on the left on this page:

http://www.starcameracompany.com/index2.htm

Marco

[edp]

I have a Sputnik, and I think it is my favourite camera, despite its flaws.

The first thing I did when I got mine was take it entirely to pieces, clean everything, adjust the shutter times, lubricate the self-timer... This thing came out of a Russian tractor factory fifty years ago, and it shows.

I've added some self-adhesive flocking material inside to reduce reflections, and I've added a pair of lens hoods. The biggest flaw is the light trap around the back doors: it doesn't trap much light. I stuck thin strips of the same flocking material all around, but it's not perfect. I might try gluing a length of black wool into the groove some time.

[tjaded]

If I had the knowledge, I would adjust the shutters and re-lube everything. I did the flocking paper yesterday and I have a few ideas for the body light leaks that I assume are there. I'm working on getting the lens shades, should have them soon!

[edp]

Take care to ensure the film is lined up properly with the guides next to the rollers; the first roll I put through mine got a bit mangled.

[edp]

I really do wish there was a quality medium format stereo camera!

There's the Chinese made "3D World" camera, yours for just $1,795: http://home.att.net/~sales3d/WMFcameraRedesigned.htm

[tjaded]

I saw that Chinese camera...a bit high of a price. That's why I went with a Sputnik. Last night I spent a good many hours thinking about how to make one that shoots onto 4x5 film...we shall see if I ever get past the day dreaming phase!

[gandolfi]

... Last night I spent a good many hours thinking about how to make one that shoots onto 4x5 film...we shall see if I ever get past the day dreaming phase!

but that's easy...

here you can buy stereo lenses:
http://www.mwclassic.com/acatalog/On...LENSES_37.html
(scroll down a little)

put them in front of a normal 4x5 (or larger) camera - make a septum to devide the inside of the camera, and you're ready to go...

OR

find something like the attached image ;-)

(I have a Sputnik, and I love it - difficult to use, but there is nothing wrong with it...)

[tjaded]

I just got back the first roll--amazingly there was only one instance of a light leak. Unfortunately, one lens is not focusing properly and the shutter on the same side is slower than the other. Anybody know who works on these in the USA? Assuming I can get those issues figured out, it might be a somewhat usable camera.