Bell And Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye
The Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye is a vintage camera that was first produced in the early 1970s. It quickly became popular among amateur and professional photographers alike for its advanced features and ease of use. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide to the Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye, including its history, technical specifications, and tips for using it.
The History of the Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye
The Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye was first introduced in 1971 as the successor to the company's highly successful Super 8 camera line. It was designed to be a high-end camera that would appeal to professional photographers and serious enthusiasts, while still being easy enough for beginners to use.
The Optronic Eye was notable for its advanced features, including an automatic exposure system that adjusted the camera's settings based on the lighting conditions. This made it much easier for amateur photographers to take high-quality photos without needing to manually adjust the settings themselves.
The camera was also known for its rugged construction, which made it durable enough to withstand the rigors of outdoor photography. It quickly became a favorite among outdoor photographers, who appreciated its reliability and ease of use.
Technical Specifications of the Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye
The Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye was a high-end camera with a range of advanced technical specifications. These included:
- Automatic exposure system
- Manual focus adjustment
- Zoom lens with a focal length of 8.5-25mm
- Maximum aperture of f/1.8
- Shutter speed range of 1/60 to 1/1000 second
- Built-in light meter
- Compatible with Super 8 film cartridges
These technical specifications made the Optronic Eye a highly versatile camera that could be used in a range of different settings. Its automatic exposure system and built-in light meter made it ideal for outdoor photography, while its manual focus adjustment and zoom lens made it well-suited for more controlled indoor photography settings.
Tips for Using the Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye
Using the Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye is relatively straightforward, but there are a few tips you should keep in mind to get the best results:
- Use a tripod: Although the Optronic Eye was designed to be a handheld camera, using a tripod can help you get sharper and more stable shots.
- Be aware of lighting conditions: The camera's automatic exposure system is designed to adjust for different lighting conditions, but you should still be aware of how much light is available and adjust your settings accordingly.
- Experiment with different lenses: The Optronic Eye was compatible with a range of different lenses, which can give you more creative control over your photos.
- Take advantage of the camera's manual focus: Although the automatic focus system is reliable, manually adjusting the focus can give you more creative control over your shots.
Conclusion
The Bell and Howell Super 8 Camera Optronic Eye was an advanced and versatile camera that quickly became a favorite among amateur and professional photographers alike. Its automatic exposure system, advanced technical specifications, and rugged construction made it well-suited for a range of different settings and environments. If you are interested in vintage cameras or are looking for a reliable and versatile camera for your photography, the Optronic Eye is definitely worth considering.
