Jeff Bridges has officially revived the iconic Widelux camera, a unique mechanical swing-lens panoramic device originally launched in 1958. The actor and photographer has shared his enthusiasm through a recent video showcasing the first working models of the WideluxX, the updated version of the beloved classic. This development highlights Bridges’ dedication to preserving and promoting a piece of photographic history, which he believes serves as a vital connection between still photography and filmmaking.
In the video posted on the website of his company, SilverBridges, Bridges reveals the delivery of two cameras, marked with the serial numbers 0001 and 0002. As he opens the package, viewers can sense his excitement as he prepares to load film into the second camera. This moment represents the culmination of years of planning since the original line of Widelux cameras ceased production in 2000.
Bridges expresses his admiration for the Widelux’s distinctive capabilities. The camera employs a rotating lens design, allowing it to capture expansive panoramic images. As explained by Bridges in another video, the optical mechanism moves in an arc, with a slit that pans across the film, resulting in long, wide photographs. He appreciates the camera’s ability to produce images with a mixture of sharp and blurred areas, creating a unique atmosphere. Often using fast films rated at ISO3200 and push processed to ISO6400, Bridges captures scenes that resonate with his cinematic background.
The actor’s journey into photography was sparked by the Widelux, which he describes as the “missing link” between still images and motion pictures. He notes that the wide frame allows for flexibility in handheld shooting, stating, “It’s possible to handhold it at 1/15th second; it’s very forgiving that way.” Bridges’ deep connection to the Widelux is evident in his assertion that it is the only camera he regularly uses.
Reflecting on the end of the original Widelux production, Bridges recalls his disappointment when Pann Camera Shokai, the Tokyo-based manufacturer, produced its final unit. Since then, his company, co-owned by his wife, Susan Bridges, has been dedicated to reintroducing the camera to photography enthusiasts around the world. While no official release date has been confirmed, the recent video further demonstrates Bridges’ commitment to the project’s success.
For those interested in updates regarding the WideluxX, a sign-up form is available on the SilverBridges website. As Bridges continues to champion this remarkable camera, the revival of the Widelux may inspire a new generation of photographers to explore its unique capabilities and artistic potential.
