(1997 - 2003?) Similar in some ways to the design of the Biflex of 1948,
the PhotoBlaster has two lenses and two shutters so that the flipping
of the film -- as in the Biflex -- is not necessary. For a submini camera
it's a little on the big size -- about the size of a Leica M3 -- but
the PhotoBlaster is designed for kids. Perhaps I should say that it
appeals to the kid in all of us! The images are quarter frame so you
end up with 4 times the number of pictures per roll. It advances like a
half-frame, but has a horizontal split and two lenses/shutters. The top quarter
frame is exposed first, then the bottom -- with another press of the shutter release -- and then a half-frame advance. The lenses
are 2 element (probably about 20mm) and do a very nice job! You may
be thinking that this camera is like the "action tracker" cameras, which
also takes four quarter-frame exposures on 35mm film, as well. Not really.
The "Action Tracker" takes four pictures with each press of the shutter release
-- with a single rotating shutter. But the PhotoBlaster takes a separate,
distinct exposure for each press of the shutter release. That's great for
kids, because one roll of film gives them lots of shots and helps keep the
cost of film and processing to a minimum. The camera is well made and offers
several desirable features. For example, with a 36 exposure roll of
film, you'll get 144 separate exposures. The built-in flash is powered
by two AA batteries. The camera also has a built in CDS meter that
tells you if the flash is needed. It also has a flash-ready light.
A built-in sliding lens cover protects the most important part of the
camera and prevents accidental exposures. The funky design is an eye
catcher at anytime! A neat camera whether you are a subminiature person
or a subminiature enthusiast.
It was also sold as the GoPhoto X-treme with different coloring.
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