Lomography is once again expanding the options available to fans of quirky film photography by announcing the HydroChrome Sutton’s Panoramic Belair Camera: the world’s first 35mm format panoramic camera with a liquid-filled lens.
The new camera builds on the liquid lens idea that Lomo debuted with the cardboard LomoMod No.1 camera, which was universally panned by reviewers. But while that camera suffered from some frustrating build issues—the decidedly plastic HydroChrome Belair should have no such issues.
Really, the HydroChromme is a hybrid of two previous Lomo creations: you get the Sutton Liquid Lens debuted with the LomoMod No.1 alongside the panoramic experience offered by the Belair body, allowing you to experiment with various liquids and panoramaic film photography all at once. And if you’re stuck for ideas, Lomo has even released a “Liquid Guide” for inspiration:
“The HydroChrome makes experimenting easy. As well as a totally unique lens, this camera comes with a further two built-in features to explore: sprocket holes and panoramic exposures,” explains Lomography. “Artistic minds can let their imagination run wild as they craft panoptic shots complete with lo-fi dreamy aesthetics, authentically analogue perforated edges, and extraordinary liquid effects, all on easy-to-use 35mm film.”
The camera takes standard 35mm film, exposing 104mm x 35mm in each frame. For the aperture, you get the choice between the lens’ built-in f/11 opening as well as four interchangeable aperture plates at f/16, f/22, f/32, and an f/168 pinhole. Shutter speed is limited to two options: N (normal), which comes in at 1/100, or B (Bulb).
Here’s a closer look at the camera and lens:
And some sample images provided by Lomography. As you can see, the sutton lens allows you to expose the sprocket holes in addition to the 104mm x 35mm frame:
The HydroChrome Sutton’s Panoramic Belair Camera (say that 5 times fast) is available to order now for $79 through the Lomography online store. Estimated delivery is listed as “End of November.” To learn more about this camera or pick one up for yourself, head over to the Lomography website.