The revival of the Widelux panoramic film camera is making waves in the photography world as creators roll out a video to provide insight into their groundbreaking project. This endeavor, spearheaded by Academy Award-winning actor Jeff Bridges, his wife, photographer Susan “Sue” Bridges, and SilvergrainClassics’ Charys Schuler and Marwan El Mozayen, aims to breathe new life into the classic model while ensuring that its rich heritage is largely preserved.
The WideluxX project seeks to modernize the beloved Widelux panoramic film camera, famously produced by Panon, which ceased operations after its factory suffered a devastating fire two decades ago. In the newly released video, Jeff Bridges shares the passion behind the revival: “Twenty years ago, the Widelux factory burned down, so we decided rather than let our favorite camera die, we’d bring her back to life.” Sue Bridges adds, “We’re keeping it old-school. It’s a film camera handmade in Germany.”
The creative team at SilverBridges has undertaken the task of reverse-engineering the last model produced by Panon, the Widelux F8. During the development process, Schuler and El Mozayen revealed that they are implementing several significant upgrades in the new version. They emphasize that despite these modifications, the essence of the original camera remains intact. “There’s going to be a lot of small improvements,” Schuler explains, while reinforcing that “its DNA is still an F8.”
This revival is not merely about the restoration of a camera; it signifies a broader commitment to the future of analog photography. As one of the team’s representatives points out, “I think we see ourselves as the missing link between the history of analog photography and the future of analog photography.” They aim to provide contemporary photographers with the tools necessary to engage in the art and craft of traditional camera manufacturing.
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Jeff Bridges highlights the personal significance of the Widelux camera to him, sharing, “I didn’t really start getting into photography until I got a hold of a Widelux camera. There’s a certain kind of blurred motion in it. And it was sharp and blurry all at the same time.” He notes that the artistry it offers captures a unique intersection between still photography and motion picture filmmaking.
As the team only recently showcased the first prototype, they acknowledge that the final production model will differ from what has been revealed thus far. Nonetheless, excitement is palpable among both devoted fans of the original camera and newcomers eager to explore its creative possibilities. The enthusiasm surrounding the WideluxX project underscores a revitalizing era for analog photographers, encouraging a spirit of exploration and adventure in the medium.
The revival efforts by SilverBridge and its creators invite the community to join them on this panoramic adventure, as they strive to create not just a camera, but a bridge between the storied past of photography and its promising future.
