Lomo LC-A
The LOMO LC-A is a cult-classic 35mm compact camera built in Russia from 1984-1994 by the Leningrad Optics and Mechanics Association (LOMO). The LC-A is a modified copy of the Cosina CX-2, from which it derives its distinctive compact design.
The LC-A features a fixed 32mm f2.8 Minitar lens that can be zone-focused to one of four focus zones via a small lever on the left-hand side of the camera. On the right, another lever allows for manual control of the aperture, with an "A" setting allowing for fully automatic exposure. The leaf shutter fires automatically depending on the light conditions at shutter speeds 2 sec - 1/500th. An LED in the viewfinder warns if the shutter speed will fire below 1/30th. A small dial near the viewfinder sets the ISO.
Early production LC-A's have a in-viewfinder display of the selected zone focus distance. One of the most interesting features of the camera is its sliding lens and viewfinder cover doors, which can be open and closed via a switch beneath the lens. The camera is powered by (3) LR-44 cells.
In use, the LC-A performs well as a snapshot camera with its fully automatic exposure. Zone focus can take some getting used to, but the in-viewfinder zone display speeds up focusing considerably. The LOMO utilizes plastic construction but feels solid in hand, which combined with its compact dimensions and light weight make it a great camera to toss in your daily bag. The 32mm f2.8 Minitar lens is an admirable performer, providing crisp negatives when focused correctly. The Minitar lens is a favorite for conversion to different lens mounts, and LOMO even produced a special rangefinder-coupled version in Leica M mount.
LOMO LC-As are difficult to test without running film through them to test the autoexposure system. Watch out for battery compartment corrosion (these cameras cannot function without battery power) and for light seal deterioration in the film compartment. In good working order, the LC-A is a great pocket companion.
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