Oscar-winning actor and accomplished photographer Jeff Bridges, along with his co-founders at SilverBridges, has unveiled the first prototype of the WideluxX, a modern revival of the classic Widelux panoramic film camera. This marks a significant step in bringing back a beloved analog photography tool.
Key Takeaways
- Jeff Bridges co-founded SilverBridges to revive the Widelux camera.
- The WideluxX Prototype 0001 has been officially unveiled.
- The new camera is a film model, handmade in Germany, aiming for longevity.
- It incorporates small improvements while maintaining the original Panon Widelux F8's essence.
- The project seeks to bridge analog photography's history with its future.
The Return of a Photographic Icon
More than a year ago, Jeff Bridges announced the formation of SilverBridges. This company's primary goal was to reintroduce the Widelux, a unique panoramic film camera that holds a special place in Bridges' personal and professional life. The recent unveiling of the WideluxX Prototype 0001 confirms the project's progress and dedication.
The prototype was presented last Friday at the International Association for Panoramic Photography convention in Minnesota. A video featuring Jeff and Susan Bridges introduced the project and the camera. This video is expected to be released online soon, offering a closer look at the new device.
Interesting Fact
Jeff Bridges famously used his original Widelux camera to capture behind-the-scenes moments on many of his film sets, creating a unique visual archive of Hollywood history.
A Passion Project Born from Loss
The original Widelux camera factory ceased operations two decades ago after a fire. This event not only stopped new camera production but also made repairs for existing models extremely difficult. This loss spurred the Bridges and their partners to action.
"20 years ago, the Widelux factory burned down, so we decided that rather than letting our favorite camera die, we'd bring her back to life," Jeff and Susan Bridges stated in their video. "We're keeping it old school; it's a film camera handmade in Germany, built to last generations."
This commitment to traditional craftsmanship highlights the team's vision for the WideluxX. They aim to create a durable, high-quality instrument that honors its predecessor while offering modern reliability.
SilverBridges: A Collaborative Effort
SilverBridges is a partnership between Jeff Bridges, his wife Susan Bridges, and the team behind SilvergrainClassics magazine: Charys Schuler and Marwan El Mozayen. The company name itself, SilverBridges, combines elements from both the magazine and the Bridges family name.
Schuler and El Mozayen have been instrumental in the technical development. They describe the process as a bridge between the past and future of analog photography. Their dedication ensures the new camera stays true to its roots.
Background on Widelux
The Panon Widelux is renowned for its unique swinging lens design, which captures a wide panoramic image with a distinct aesthetic. Its mechanical nature and the specific look it produces have made it a favorite among dedicated film photographers and artists.
Re-engineering a Classic
The development process for the WideluxX involved extensive reverse engineering. Since no original parts are available, the SilverBridges team had to recreate every component. This was a significant undertaking, but the prototype demonstrates their success.
Charys Schuler and Marwan El Mozayen confirmed that while there will be small improvements, the core DNA of the Widelux F8 remains. They emphasized their role in preserving the art and craft of camera manufacturing.
This approach ensures that the WideluxX will deliver the familiar panoramic experience while benefiting from contemporary engineering and materials. The goal is to provide a new generation of film photographers with a robust tool for creative expression.
The Future of Analog Photography
The WideluxX project represents a broader trend in photography: the renewed interest in analog methods. Many photographers are seeking the tangible quality and unique aesthetics that film cameras offer, distinct from digital photography.
The dedication to handmade German manufacturing underscores the project's commitment to quality and longevity. This focus on enduring craftsmanship aligns with the values of many film photography enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile experience of analog cameras.
Photographers interested in following the WideluxX's journey can find updates on the project's official website. The introductory video featuring Jeff and Susan Bridges is expected to be posted there shortly, providing more insights into this exciting revival.
Key Design Principle
The WideluxX maintains the swinging lens mechanism of the original Panon Widelux F8, which is crucial for its distinctive panoramic image capture.
Impact on the Photography Community
The reintroduction of the Widelux could significantly impact the analog photography community. It provides a new option for those seeking a high-quality panoramic film camera, a niche that has been difficult to fill since the original factory closed.
The involvement of a figure like Jeff Bridges also brings considerable attention to film photography. His passion for the Widelux highlights the artistic value and unique qualities of analog processes, potentially inspiring new photographers to explore film.
This project is more than just launching a camera; it is about preserving a legacy and fostering a connection between past and future photographic arts. The WideluxX embodies a commitment to enduring artistic tools in an increasingly digital world.
What Comes Next
With the prototype now unveiled, the next steps for SilverBridges will likely involve refining the design, moving towards production, and establishing distribution channels. The goal is to make these handmade German cameras accessible to a global audience of film enthusiasts.
The project website will be the primary source for updates, including details on availability and pricing. The team's transparent approach, sharing their progress from concept to prototype, keeps the community engaged and invested in the WideluxX's success.
This revival is a testament to the enduring appeal of specialized analog cameras and the power of dedicated individuals to bring beloved tools back to life. The WideluxX promises to be a significant addition to the world of film photography.