OpenTube

126-year-old Kodak No 4 Cartridge Camera model E, modification to use modern 4x5 film holders

Martin Henson

4,575 views

Settle in with a cuppa — we're breathing life into a Kodak beauty!

This vintage Kodak camera, a true gem, used to shoot discontinued 104 film and 4x5 glass plates. But I've got a simple mod that'll get it working with modern 4x5 film holders. If you've ever wanted a cheap way into large-format photography, stick around. I'll walk you through exactly how I did it.

Oh, and I've got a quick update: I've been MIA for a bit, but I'm back now — and I'm making videos again!
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20 Comments

@mikeThomas-c4t 4 months ago (edited)

Glad you're getting around better, always happy to see one of your videos on an old camera. I already have several, but your video inspired me out today and found a great Kodak 616 folding camera. The moment I saw you glue the two 120 spools together I instantly thought of running two rolls of 120 through simultaneously. Thank you, great mod.

@ChrisLoomis-n8z 4 months ago

Martin : Heal up Mate ; I am pulling for you ! 100 % You can do it Brother. 🇺🇸🇬🇧

@ИльяФомилия 4 months ago

What a wonderful camera, and such a lovely camera review! But please don't push yourself so hard. Your health is precious, and you need some rest. Please take good care of yourself and see a neurologist and a doctor as soon as possible. May God bless you with strength, patience, and a speedy recovery. Wishing you all the very best! 🙏❤️

@GeorgiosKalaydjian 4 months ago

Thank you dear Martin for showing us an amazing another Camera, wishing you a speedy recovery ❤️‍🩹

@irresponsiblepictures7451 4 months ago

Absolutely enjoyed this. Wonderful addition to your collection and looks in good shape for his age...speaking of, sciatica is brutal, keep on at it and hope you get to full speed again!

@alpcns 4 months ago

Martin, speedy and full recovery! Thank you for your beautiful work and the effort you put into it. A great camera indeed - and it shows that these old optics are quite capable indeed.

@ponko_2130 4 months ago

Dear Martin,
Thank you always for your wonderful videos and photographs. I’m very glad to hear that your health is improving, and I look forward to seeing more of your amazing videos and hearing your enjoyable stories about cameras and photography again soon.
Wishing you continued recovery and all the best.

@ZGTours4Schools 4 months ago

We said it before - best channel on YT. Thanks for so generously sharing your knowledge with us. We are wishing you a speedy and full recovery!

@chrislong5392 4 months ago

The red bellows were made with seal skin leather. I was a little shocked when I found that out.

@jeevansingh6944 4 months ago

Great to see a new upload and photographic adventure. Hope you make a speedy recovery.

@St.AndrewsStation 4 months ago

great video. I think the thin metal rod you have is to hold the bellow up when shooting. It goes through the loop in the middle of the bellows.

@garyetheridge7497 4 months ago

Great video, it’s rainy here in the US too. Looks like a fun project for someone who does not have a 4x5. Love watching your videos, keep them coming!

@TristanColgate 4 months ago

Using the 120 spools to hold the bands was an ingenious idea! (On my Zero45 I refer to the bands as the Tensioned Polymer Film Transport).

@oldbones4941 4 months ago

Amazing video and a brilliant presentation, Martin you should be very very proud of yourself. Creating this for us all to watch and learn.
You are the main reason that I am now venturing in to film, I love black and white and your channel is a beacon for any one who is interested in the real skills required to use older photographic equipment successfully.
Thank you so very much for all you do,