Three's Company, Eight's a Lomo Celebration
Oktomat by The Lomographic Society
By Drew Nikonowicz
10 May 2009
I pondered for a long time as to how I might introduce what I like to call "The Arachnid of Cameras." Finally, I concluded in my mind that there is no proper introduction for something so exquisite. The eight lenses and a playful toy-like appearance make the Oktomat stand out from the rest. It was created by the Lomographic Society and emulates their creativity flawlessly.
This camera screams unconventional creativity. Its eight lenses open in a sequence creating a small two second mini-movie. It separates one slide of film into an eight image movie. With just the twist of a lever and the push of a button, you have your own miniature production. Now, it is time to round up the gang and start making your own Lomographic creations.
The first time I saw the results that people received from this camera I knew I had to have one. The way that the images told a small story instantly appealed to me. I loved the way that the images captured those moments in time. Instead of giving you a one image story, it gives you an entire sequence of photos. When I look at the images captured with my Oktomat, I always see a beautiful array of moments; it really does tell a story.
Everyone is probably wondering about the cost of this minx. Seeing as this camera is such a quirky beauty, it must cost a lot of money, correct? Wrong! It is my pleasure to inform you that it costs a humble 40 dollars. This is where you throw the magazine into the air and dance over to the computer to order one. Just type in http://shop.lomography.com/oktomat/ and click "Buy Now." The rest is quite self explanatory.
This beautiful camera is not only cheap but easy to use. Since it uses 35mm film, it is available to everyone. I suggest either 400- or 800-speed film when using this camera. The 400 film was slightly more consistent, but 800 film works well, too. I also suggest that you make sure to have sufficient sunlight, because if you do not, your pictures will be grainy. Almost anything indoor turns out slightly grainy. For the best results, shooting outside is the best bet.
The Oktomat is a camera that must be taken seriously. Do not be mistaken by its adorable and cunning appearance. Use caution when handling this beautiful brick of Okto-power. The results will be a blast that only a Lomo camera could produce. It is definitely a camera everyone can enjoy. Without a doubt this camera will be in my camera bag for many years to come.
3 responses
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Erika Barker said (11 May 2009):
I'm sold, dude. I saw one of these on fredflare.com and was wondering how the photos turn out.
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peggy gardner gave props (1 Jul 2009):
neato, thanks for sharing.
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Roger Blease gave props (8 Jul 2009):
Love to try this! Great explanation. Question for you: are you shooting print film and developing as slides, or vice versa? Thanks for the piece!
