Lomography has made a new movie camera that charges using USB-C

Lomography has announced a new… Spine MC-A Film camera, 35mm format, with 32mm f/2.8 fixed lens and metal body. It’s a charm for the new movie photographer, complete with a built-in flash, an autofocus glass lens, a manual film advance lever, and a built-in CR2 battery that recharges via USB-C. The MC-A is available for pre-order now for $549 black or silverIt will be manufactured in small batches, with the first batch delivered “before December 24.”

Lomo cameras have a reputation for being too toy-like and choosing fun over technical features or specifications. But the MC-A seems to be a very specialized camera for street photography or everyday slice-of-life photos. It has full manual exposure control, as well as auto and aperture priority modes, and a manual zone focus option. You can also take shots with multiple exposures to get more creative.

It reminds me a lot of Pentax 17 I reviewed it last year, though in full 35mm format instead of half frame and costing only $50 more. While the Pentax magic came from its small, compact stature and how it could get up to 72 shots per roll, the Lomo MC-A will have greater resolution and will only weigh about 42 grams. Although both are powered by CR2 batteries, the fact that the Lomo comes with a rechargeable battery overcomes the slightly annoying pain point of using older cameras. However, you can still use disposable CR2s.

And because Lomo seems unable to stop itself from being quirky, the MC-A includes its features Splitzer lens attachment To split multiple exposures on the same frame Flash gels Gives a bold, colorful look to the built-in flash. The camera body itself is also emblazoned with the well-meaning but somewhat awkward slogan of “Everyone is equal in front of the lens – and behind it.”

But quirks, novelties and clichéd logos aside, the Lomo MC-A feels like a pretty comprehensive package for a modern film.