Unveiling the Mystery Behind Old-School Photo Booths: A Lens by Lens Journey
Photographer Mathieu Stern, a vintage lens enthusiast, embarked on a captivating quest to uncover the secret lenses hidden within old-school analog photo booths. His goal was to recreate the unique look of these booths at home, but the path to discovery was far from straightforward.
Stern's journey began with a simple question: What lens is inside those vintage photo booths? However, finding the answer proved to be a challenging endeavor. The lens was only exposed during shooting, making it impossible to identify without disassembly. Despite extensive online research, Stern's quest yielded little success.
The story of photo booths dates back to 1925 when Anatol Josepho invented the Photomaton, one of the first fully automated photo booths. It revolutionized portrait photography by making it accessible and affordable for the masses. Over time, photo booths became ubiquitous in various locations, offering a unique and memorable experience. Yet, with the rise of instant film cameras and digital photography, analog photo booths began to fade away.
Stern's investigation led him to a 1940s patent describing the Wollensak portrait lens, an f/2, 3-inch lens with deep focus capabilities. This lens, according to the patent, required no focusing for sharp shots. However, further research revealed a twist. A video of a restored London photo booth showed a different lens, a Dallmayer 75mm f/4.5 enlarging lens.
The mystery deepened as Stern discovered a Nikkor 35mm f/2.8 lens inside two French photo booths. Armed with this newfound knowledge, Stern set out to recreate the classic look. He shared his findings and techniques with other photographers, demonstrating how to achieve a similar effect using modern digital cameras.
Despite the technical achievements, Stern emphasizes that the magic lies in the experience and nostalgia. Analog photo booths offer a distinct and special photographic experience, capturing a unique moment in time. It's not just about the lens; it's about the entire process and the feeling it evokes.
Stern's journey highlights the allure of vintage photo booths and the challenges of preserving their essence. While the lenses and techniques can be replicated, the true charm lies in the nostalgia and the artistic approach that has been somewhat forgotten in the digital age.
