The Lomo ActionSampler is a simple and basic fun camera with 4 lenses
that takes 4 photos, 12x18mm, on one 24x36mm frame. This is the first
type of a Lomo action sampler, there was a SuperSampler, which had a very short life
cycle and a flash version. The transparent version was the last available. It is sold out at Lomography's, but there is still some stock around.
The
ActionSampler is very similar to an "Action Tracker", made in China,
which existed already before. So either Lomo copied it or it's from the
same maker with a Lomo branding.
Its
main features are:
4x
26mm wide lens, F11, fixed focus, 1.2m - ∞
Shutter
1/100, 4 pictures in 1 s via a rotating disk with one hole, which passes successively before all 4 lenses Size 102x64x32, Weight 95 gr.
Camera with box, manual and other lomo booklets.
Camera with strap and viewing frame unfolded.
Camera
front. 4 Lenses..
Camera
back. Thumb wheel for film advance and shutter cocking.
Camera
top. Film rewind, handle doesn't even fold. Aiming device and shutter
release.
Camera bottom. Film counter and rewind release button.
Film compartment.
Using
the Lomo ActionSampler is easy. A cycle takes one second which gives
different pictures from a moving subject. Don't move too quick, as
1/100s shutter speed may give blurred pictures unless you want them so.
As there is only one shutter speed, you
have to choose your film depending on the weather conditions. On bright
days ISO 200 is fine, on dull days ISO 400 is better. Modern film is
quite flexible, so you will have usable results. Inside or at night
photos are not possible. It's a toy or fun camera,
all plastic.
The clear plastic is extremely fragile, more fragile than ordinary
plastic. If you put the camera down roughly, it may break already. On
top of it, this is the most flimsy Lomo camera I have had in my hands.
The original Action Tracker seems to be slightly more "solid". Non
transparent Lomo models are also preferable. The chrome one is at the end of this page.
Some
gereral words about Lomography and their service: There is a 2-year
warranty, at least in Europe. My personal experience with their service
is very good. As most of their cameras are made of (cheap) plastic,
there is no repair, they just exchange your defective camera. You have
to send it in to their Vienna office at your expenses, which is not cheap
if you are not based in Austria, but they try to compensate by adding
film or so to the return. You absolutely need a proof of purchase,
there was heavy abuse by fraudulent customers they told me. So if you
buy second hand or your camera is gift, be sure to put your hands on
the proof of purchase. After the 2-years warranty period it's over.
They will try to help for the expensive not-so-plastic cameras like the
LC series, but for the rest there is no repair. Keep this in mind for
the prices you pay for older gear.
Here is the chrome edition:
Front.
Back.
Top. It has a foldable rewind.
Bottom. Lomography inscriptions.
A nice look. Be cautious handling it, it scratches easily.
