Zeiss Netter 515/16
This camera is another early result of hanging with the FIlmwasters. Sometimes when you hold something for the first time, it just sort of fits. This camera is by no means one of the must have models, but it is one of those cameras that when you start using it and get the results it’s like WOW
I was looking for a 120 folder to slip into my pocket when Iwas out and about with the C220. It meant and short notice I could load a different speed film into it and carry on shooting. I started carrying it in my satchel whenever I went to work and would whip it out for some street photography.
It sits well in my motorbike kit set up and it has holidayed regularly with me. Many times I have gone to get another more advanced folder and just haven’t gone through with the purchase as I didn’t think I was missing out on anything.
I have gotten very good at eyeball focus measurement. Very easy to handle, very easy to live with, can be on station in a flash.
Some general information
- Does it have an industry nickname – not really
- Why was it the darling of the camera scene – it was so simple to use, was built using high end parts so gave a wonderful clear sharp result
- Pigeon hole it sits in – breast pocket folders
- Special feature – simplicity!
What is my connection to the camera?
- Why did it catch my interest – I had never used a folder before so was looking for the most basic yet usable model out there
- How did I acquire it – one of the early annual camera fairs I visited, I had been in the pavilion about 5 minutes and spotted it, a very reasonable and encouraging price was quickly agreed. This surprised the store holder so much he gave me a roll of film to get started.
- What uses have I put it to – street and travel photography
- Why this particular unit – I guess some days the stars line up. You have money in your pocket appearing through the fog and noise of distraction there is was.
- Unique things I discovered – folding the lens back gives it a slight lensbaby feel
- Where does it sit in my level of obsession – out of the few folders I have, this one gets packed the most as its overall footprint is quite low so easy to travel with or take on a days walking
- Overview of camera form and functions
- Loading – Very simple and straight forward
- Focusing – GTF “guess the focus”
- Exposure adjustment – Manual shutter and aperture controls
- Light meter – one must use a separate hand held
- General handling – Light, solid, easy to operate
There is obviously something wrong with the camera, I have had magnificent results out of it over the years, but when I got the rolls of film back they were all like this.
This was shot during winter 20/21 and thus I haven’t been able to get near a technician to have it resolved. I am still a massive fan of this camera.