The Lomomatic 110 Golden Gate, presented by Lomography in March 2024, is a pocket film camera and the third of its kind for the compact film format, after the Fisheye Baby 110 and the Diana Baby 110. Two variants, Metal and Golden Gate, were introduced at launch.
The Golden Gate is sold by Lomography with and without flash. Without flash, Lomography charges 99 euros in Europe. If you want the camera with flash, you pay 119 euros.
With its design, the camera is reminiscent of the Ritch-Ratsch models from Agfa and Co. Thanks to the small film format, it is extremely compact and fits comfortably in a trouser pocket.
Features of the camera
The camera is equipped with a Minitar CX 23mm f/2.8 lens, which is not interchangeable and does not allow filters. Nevertheless, Lomography promises sharp results thanks to the glass lenses. The focus is set manually via a slider that allows different distances: 0.8 m, 1.5 m, 3 m and infinity. There is no rangefinder; the distance to the subject must be estimated.
Unlike many other pocket film cameras, this model has an exposure meter and supports films with ISO 100, 200 and 400 sensitivity. The aperture can be selected between f/2.8 and f/5.6 via a switch, while the camera technology automatically selects the exposure time between 1/250 second and 30 seconds.
For fans of long exposures, the camera offers a bulb mode in which the shutter can be opened for a variable length of time, up to a maximum of 30 seconds. Another creative feature is the multiple exposure mode, which makes it possible to expose a frame several times and create interesting image compositions.
A tripod cannot be connected to the camera, but there is a connection option for a hand strap. An external flash can be connected to the camera if required, and small colour foils can be placed in front of the flash to colour the images.
There is no self-timer and a cable release cannot be connected to the Lomomatic 110 Golden Gate.
A CR2 battery (eBay / Amazon*) is required for the light meter, which is easily available on the Internet.
Films for the Lomomatic 110 Golden Gate
The Lomomatic 110 Golden Gate uses pocket films, also known as "110 films". These are smaller than normal 35mm films and come in an elongated plastic cassette. Although the film format was not as successful as medium or 35mm format, Lomography now offers some films for this format.
A recommended film for beginners is the Lomography Tiger 110*, a colour negative film that delivers solid results and is also forgiving of slight exposure errors. Lomography also offers more experimental colour films and a black and white film.
Development of the films
The aforementioned film is developed using the C-41 process, which is offered by most photo labs. However, not all labs offer the development of pocket films, so you should enquire beforehand.
Developing in your own laboratory is possible and recommended, especially if the film format is used frequently. The necessary accessories and the right chemicals can be purchased online.
The user must advance the film format manually, as the camera does not have an automatic motor.
