Superheadz Black Slim Devil
Sometimes described as poor man’s LOMO, the Vivitar Ultra Wide & Slim (also known as the UWS or recent copies by Superheadz – Black Slim Devil, White Slim Angel, etc.) are gaining new interest from toy camera fans from across the world. From a few quids on eBay (second-hand original Vivitar) to £30 on other online stores (Brand new Superheadz copy), the f11, 1/125, fixed (flat) lens plastic camera is worth considering if you like wide angle photography with vignetting.
It is light (75g) and small enough (W100 x H58 x D26) to keep in a handbag/pocket, but I probably won’t replace it with my LOMO LC-A as a daily camera for the following reasons…
Due to the f11 aperture and 1/125 shutter speed, the UWS is completely useless indoors, even with a fast film. In fact, I’d recommend using 400ISO film even on a bright day as you might still want to shoots things in the shade from time to time.
Also, the super flat lens means that you have to watch out for your fingers/knuckles when holding the UWS. If you don’t want your knuckles in every photos, try holding the camera from the top and bottom, and ignore the non-functional grip feature on the right.
In short, I love the 22mm wide angle and the vignetting, and wouldn’t mind carrying it every where due to its small size and light weight. The discreet black body of the Black Slim Devil is also good for street photography.
Sample photo 1: Bicycle Lane
Sample photo 2: Underground Sign in the Sun
