The La Sardina Lee is a limited edition camera. It was designed in collaboration with the Lee brand. It was introduced by Lomography in the early 2010s.
Design
The camera has an unusual design that is reminiscent of a sardine can. The housing is covered with a denim fabric that is reminiscent of jeans. The brand name “Lee” can be seen on both the lens ring and the lens cap.
Functions of the Lomography camera
The La Sardina Lee has a fixed lens with a focal length of 22 mm and a maximum aperture of f/8. Focusing is manual, with a minimum focusing distance of 60 cm.
The camera has no light meter and offers a fixed shutter speed and a bulb mode.
A tripod thread and a connection for a cable release are available. In addition, a flash unit can be connected via the Fritz the Blitz connection. A flash is included in the delivery.
The camera works completely mechanically and does not need batteries.
Films for the La Sardina Lee
The La Sardina Lee uses 35mm films, which are still readily available and can be developed by most photo labs. Recommended films include the Kodak Ultramax 400* for color images and the Kentmere 100* for black and white photos.
Color films are developed using the C-41 process, which is offered by almost all photo labs. Black and white films require a corresponding black and white developer.
The negatives of the Lomography camera have a format of 24 mm x 36 mm. The film is transported via a wheel, and at the end of the roll the film must be rewound manually. Make sure that the back panel is only opened after it has been completely rewound.
The camera is a limited edition and is no longer in production. Used examples are available on the second-hand market, although prices may vary depending on condition.
Lee
Lee is an American company known for its jeans. It was founded in 1889 and is headquartered in Merriam, Kansas. Lee is a well-known brand in the jeans industry and offers a wide range of denim products, including jeans, jackets and shirts.
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Viewfinder camera |
| Film format | 35mm |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Film transport mechanism | Rotary knob |
| Picture format | 24 mm x 36 mm |
| Focal length | 22 mm |
| Widest aperture | f/8 |
| Minimum focus distance | 60 cm / 1.968 ft |
| Focus | Fixed |
| Exposure times | 1/100 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Auto DX (Film sensitivity) | No |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | Connection only suitable for Fritz the Blitz |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Self-timer | No |
| Connection for camera strap | No |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | China |
FAQ about the La Sardina Lee
What type of film does the La Sardina Lee camera use?
The La Sardina Lee uses standard 35mm film, readily available and processed by most photo labs. Both color and black and white films are compatible.
Does this limited edition camera have any automatic features?
No, the La Sardina Lee is fully mechanical. It lacks an exposure meter and has a fixed shutter speed, relying on the user for complete control.
How is the focus controlled on the Lomography La Sardina Lee?
Focusing is done manually on this unusual camera. It has a minimum focusing distance of 60cm.
What is the lens specification of the La Sardina Lee camera?
The camera features a fixed 22mm lens with a maximum aperture of f/8. This wide-angle lens is ideal for capturing expansive scenes.
Is the camera still in production, and where might one find it?
The La Sardina Lee is a limited edition and no longer in production. However, used models can be found on the secondary market, with prices varying according to condition.