Lin Wanchuan
Lomographer Lin Wanchuan from Nanjing, China, is fascinated by the magic of film and uses analogue photography as a means to preserve spontaneous moments and memories with friends in a creative way.
Because of a creative idea in our minds, we will roll under the hot sun, run wild in a rainstorm, climb onto the roof at sunset and watch day turn to night over the city skyline.
The new and improved version of the original 35 mm film camera that single-handedly launched the global Lomographic movement and pioneered a legendary analogue aesthetic.
I was working in a film development shop when I bought my first camera, the Horizon Kompakt, and I’ve been fascinated by the magic of film ever since. Now, Lomography cameras have become the best recording tool for me and my friends. My favorite camera is definitely the Lomo LC-A+, I have collected 7 of them. It’s easy to use, unpretentious but trustworthy. I love the LC-A+'s opening action and sound, like a match sliding over sandpaper. Every time you collect a Lomography camera, it’s like a conversation with a partner. I don’t know how many cameras I have collected, but I had to buy a separate cabinet to display them. When using these bold and quirky cameras, you can’t help but think about when the film era was in full swing. Just imagine that a young man like me recorded life, in the same way, more than ten years ago. The sense of beauty is intoxicating.
I would also recommend the Fisheye No.2. This camera has an interesting shape and the result is so peculiar. It has a clear personality, not to mention it doesn’t even need to focus. For the best picture, you have to get close, whether that’s to a pigeon, a stone statue or a friend. After trying to pitch, squat, or even lie on the ground, a whole new perspective will open up.
I shoot at least 80 rolls of film in a year and sometimes leave a roll of film in one camera for nearly half a year. These memories are not been forgotten but remain well preserved in the corner of my mind. Like a mystery box, the camera is eventually reopened and, especially when the pictures are sent to friends, the amazement is always heartfelt.
Film is a carrier to record light, so I choose to shoot when there is sufficient light. I think of each different film as a canvas and paints with different textures. Often, wonderful pictures will appear in front of you and these stem from constant socializing and trying new things.
You can see more from Lin Wanchuan here.