Not everyday do you see an old fashioned camera being used around Keene State College.
Sophomore film studies majors Cameron Isbel and Bridget Denio filmed their project “We Are The Problem” using a Bolex H16 Reflex Camera, a popular camera used throughout the 1950’s.
The project was for Professor Taylor Dunne’s 16 millimeter Film Production class, a requirement for film studies majors.
“[This] was our first project of the year and it was our first time ever using the cameras ourselves,” Isbel said.
Isbel and Denio chose to center their project around the environment and how human beings have a direct impact on the environment.
“I was going around filming different parts of nature around campus,” Isbel said. “ I filmed Bridget using different [every-day] products that you don’t even realize hurt the environment.”
Denio added that the film reflected upon the consequences of industrialization.
“It was more [about] how plastic is taking over the world,” Denio said. “[And] how the world has been industrialized by plastic and pollution.”
Denio described the experience of using the old fashioned Bolex camera to film this project.
“It’s really nerve wracking just because they don’t make those cameras anymore,” Denio said. “Once you get the hang of it, it’s not too bad.”
Isbel mentioned that since this camera isn’t so modern, they had to be very precise when it came to their shots.
“I like using the Bolex cameras because it’s not like a normal camera today where you can see what you’re filming and you know how it’s gonna turn out,” Isbel said. “You have to be very precise and accurate in what you’re doing to make sure your shots are going to come out.”
Isbel said he enjoys being a film major because he likes the creativity that comes with filming.
“I love to create things and, growing up, I always liked to make people laugh a lot,” Isbel said. “I like being able to create something that people can watch and enjoy and resonate with themselves, it’s a really good feeling.”
Dunne said that shooting on Bolex cameras allows film students to understand more about the history of cinematography.
“It’s really training your head to be a cinematographer,” Dunne said. “What’s a better way to learn about film history than to actually use the film history?”
Although shooting with the Volex camera often requires trial and error, Dunne wants her students to be patient with the process.
“I feel like there’s a ton of anxiety when [film] doesn’t come out right… so you’re troubleshooting,” Dunne said. “And then what’s amazing is when students see it and it’s perfectly exposed and it’s beautiful.”
Isbel said he has been enjoying the creative environment of Dunne’s class.
“She’s a good teacher and we can joke around and be ourselves in the classroom,” Isbel said.” When it’s time to be serious, then it’s time to be serious, so it’s good to have that balance.”
Isbel added that he believes Keene State has a supportive film program overall. “It’s a really cool [experience] and if you’re into [that type] of stuff] then Keene State’s a good place to go for film.”
Denio has also enjoyed her time studying film at KSC.
“There’s just so much creativity and you can really do whatever you want,” Denio said. “People don’t think of film as being an art… there’s so many routes and there’s no correct way of doing it.”
Nicole Dumont can be contacted at
ndumont@kscequinox.com
