Attaching Enlarger Lenses To Cameras: A Step-By-Step Guide

Enlarger lenses are used by film photographers to create prints from developed negatives, and are not meant to be attached to a camera. However, it is possible to attach an enlarger lens to a camera, and this can be done for as little as $10. Photographer Mathieu Stern attached a Vega-22y 103mm f/5.6 enlarger lens with an M42 mount to his Sony a7II. Since there is no way to focus an enlarger lens on a camera, he used an M42 Focusing Helicoid Ring Adapter. This allowed him to take sharp macro shots and convert images to black and white.

Using an M39 adapter to mount an enlarger lens to a camera

• Set your camera to manual mode: This is necessary because the M39 adapter is manual, and you will need to adjust most automatic functions manually. Set your camera mode to "Manual" or "Aperture Priority Mode."
• Enable "Release w/o Lens": Go to your camera's menu, find "Settings," and then enable the "Release w/o Lens" option. This setting allows you to use the camera without a lens attached.
• Turn on Manual Focus Assist: Search for this setting in your camera's menu and turn it on. This will help you focus manually.
• Switch your lens to Manual Mode: If applicable, make sure to switch your lens to manual mode as well.
• Attach the lens to the adapter: Gently screw your enlarger lens into the M39 adapter by turning it clockwise until it is firmly attached and locked in place.
• Connect the adapter to the camera body: Align the adapter with the camera body and rotate it clockwise. Hold both the lens and adapter together for a better grip while rotating.
• Secure the connection: Ensure that the adapter is securely connected to the camera body by pressing the camera's lens release button and rotating the adapter and lens counter-clockwise if needed.
• Adjust settings manually: Once the setup is complete, remember to adjust exposure settings and other functions like aperture, autofocus, AE metering, and image stabilization manually, as the adapter does not support automatic functions.

It is important to note that the M39 adapter allows you to experiment with different lens combinations and utilize old lenses with your new camera. However, always refer to the specific instructions and guidelines provided by the adapter's manufacturer to ensure a proper fit and safe usage.

Using a bellows to replicate the focusing function of an enlarger

A bellows is an accordion-like, pleated, expandable part of a camera that allows the lens to move with respect to the focal plane for focusing. Bellows are also used on enlargers to provide a flexible, dark extension between the film plane and the lens.

In order to replicate the focusing function of an enlarger, you can use a bellows to move the lens closer or further from the focal plane. This will allow you to bring your subjects into focus, just as you would with an enlarger.

There are two main types of bellows: bag bellows and accordion bellows. Bag bellows are typically used with lenses of short focal length, while accordion bellows have a much longer range of extension. For example, "double extension" bellows for large format cameras extend to a length equal to about twice the focal length of a standard lens, such as 300mm for the 4x5 inch format. Accordion bellows can offer even more extension, with "triple extension" bellows providing 450-500mm of extension for the same format.

When using a bellows, it's important to consider the weight of your gear. Bellows can struggle to hold heavy setups steadily, so you may need to invest in a long plate for your tripod to help stabilise the setup. Additionally, you may need to use manual lenses with a bellows, as it can interfere with electronic signals, autofocus, and aperture control on electronically controlled lenses.

By using a bellows to replicate the focusing function of an enlarger, you can achieve extreme close-up magnification and precise focusing for macro photography. It offers an adjustable focal length and smooth control throughout its range, making it a versatile and affordable option for photographers.

Using a helicoid focusing adapter to focus the lens

A helicoid focusing adapter is a great option for attaching an enlarger lens to your camera. This setup can allow you to achieve very sharp images and interesting effects, such as sharp macro shots.

Benefits of a Helicoid Focusing Adapter

The helicoid adapter serves as an intermediary between your enlarger lens and your camera, allowing you to focus the lens. This is especially useful for enlarger lenses, as they were not designed to be attached to cameras and typically lack a focusing mechanism.

One of the main advantages of using a helicoid adapter is that it can enable you to focus closer than the lens's minimum focus distance, providing macro capabilities. Additionally, it can allow the lens to focus past infinity, which is beneficial for lenses that struggle to attain infinity focus due to wear or misalignment.

Steps to Attach the Enlarger Lens with a Helicoid Focusing Adapter

• Ensure you have the correct helicoid adapter for your camera and enlarger lens. In the example provided, an M42 Focusing Helicoid Ring Adapter was used.
• Attach the helicoid adapter to your camera body. This will vary depending on your camera's brand and model.
• Mount the enlarger lens onto the helicoid adapter. Make sure the lens is securely attached.
• Focus using the focusing mechanism on the helicoid adapter or the lens itself. You may need to adjust both to achieve the desired focus.
• Experiment with different setups, such as adding extension tubes, to explore various photographic effects.

Tips and Considerations

• When shopping for a helicoid adapter, consider the quality of construction to ensure smooth operation and minimal wobble.
• Some lenses may require specific adapters or modifications to fit the helicoid adapter. For example, step-down rings may be necessary to mount lenses with different filter thread sizes.
• If you plan to use vintage lenses, inspect them for any signs of wear or misalignment that could impact their ability to focus to infinity.
• Keep in mind that while helicoid adapters offer flexibility in focusing, they may introduce some complexity and potential for image degradation when pushing the focusing limits.

Using a lens with an M42 mount and an M42 focusing helicoid ring adapter

The M42 lens mount is a screw thread mounting standard for attaching lenses to 35mm cameras, particularly single-lens reflex models. It was first used by the East German brands VEB Zeiss Ikon and KW in 1949.

M42 thread mount cameras first became well-known under the Praktica brand, and thus the M42 mount is also known as the Praktica thread mount. Since there were no proprietary elements to the M42 mount, it became known as the Universal thread mount or Universal screw mount, and was used by many manufacturers.

Due to the simplicity of the M42 lens mount, M42 adapters are common and exist for all current and many obsolete lens mounts. The adapter fits between the camera and the lens, making it possible to attach an M42 lens to a body with a different lens mount.

In the case of attaching an enlarging lens to a camera, as enlarging lenses were never meant to be attached to a camera, you cannot connect it straight to your camera through a simple M42 adapter. You will need to add an M42 focusing helicoid ring adapter to the setup.

Shooting handheld by wrapping the lens in your hand and pressing it against the camera mount

Shooting handheld with a camera can be tricky, especially when attaching a heavy enlarger lens. Here are some tips for attaching an enlarger lens to your camera by wrapping the lens in your hand and pressing it against the camera mount:

Build Your Strength: Carrying heavy gear can be challenging, so it's important to build your strength by lifting weights or using resistance bands. This will help you get used to carrying heavy equipment for extended periods.

Use a Camera Strap: A rapid-fire camera strap, such as the Altura Strap, can be more convenient and quicker than a camera harness. It attaches to your camera's tripod mount and provides extra support.

Adjust Your Posture: To reduce camera shake and blurry images, stand with your legs slightly apart, tuck your elbows in, and hold the lens before pressing the shutter. Angle the left side of your body towards the subject, and adjust the angle of your arm extension to provide a stable shelf for the lens.

Use the Triangle Support Position: Form a solid triangle with your elbows and eyebrow by bringing your elbows tight to your rib cage and pressing the viewfinder of the camera against your eyebrow. This provides a stable base for your camera setup.

Support Your Lens: When shooting handheld, use the fleshy portion of your hand to cushion and support the lens. This will help stabilise the lens and reduce camera shake.

Breathing Technique: Proper breathing can improve your photography. Breathe normally while composing your shot, then take a half breath and pause as you press the shutter. Exhale naturally afterward. This technique, borrowed from marksmanship, can help you capture crisp images.

Image Stabilisation: Most telephoto lenses have vibration reduction or image stabilisation. Ensure this is turned on when shooting handheld to reduce noise and shake in your images.

Practice: Shooting handheld with an enlarger lens takes practice. Experiment with different angles, postures, and breathing techniques to find what works best for you.

Remember, shooting handheld with an enlarger lens can be challenging due to the weight and bulk of the lens. It's essential to find a comfortable and stable position to reduce camera shake and capture sharp images.

Frequently asked questions