The Minox Files
I recently came across the Dutch photographer Mark Van Den Brink and his book The Minox Files. After an exchange of a couple emails I learned a little about his process and became lost in a few of his photos to the point that I couldn't stop looking at them. For those who don't know the Minox "Spy Camera" is a tiny 1/3 frame camera from the 1950s. For some of his photos Mark attached the camera to binoculars for photos in New York City and to a telescope when in the Alps. The results are fantastic for those who can appreciate the process and the results but not so much for the 50 megapixel pixel peepers of today. His 384 page book is no bigger than an old postcard and neither are his prints. Mark prefers to make small prints roughly 4x6" and while he could print them larger that's not his preference and I greatly respect that.
The pricing of photography/art can be tricky and a few people who I've discussed this with were surprised at the $950ish price he has on these small prints matted and framed. Personally I don't find this to be a whole of money for something you can enjoy your entire life and then pass it down to someone else. Christ how much has the average smartphone user spent on their phone, service and extras over the last decade ? $15,000 or more ? So does that $950 price really seem so much for something that doesn't need to be upgraded, needs no accessories that become obsolete, no charging, no theft, no blue light keeping you up at night, and no being triggered by something stupid on the internet. To me it seems like a no brainer but then again getting someone to spend $100 on a print is tough enough.
I praise Mark for keeping his work simple and using an artistic process with film. It makes me miss using an Olympic half-frame film camera which can produce some great analog semi focus photos.
Marks book can be purchased here.
Rooftop New York City
Fantastic
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