Guest OM Story – words and photographs by Laurie Vaughan.
I was in Liverpool for a conference and took the Olympus SP with me. It was a completely new city to me. It was a camera I had never used, and the intention was simply to learn the SP’s ability in a new place.
First Impressions of the Olympus SP
When I first handled the SP, it felt very much like an OM-1 but with a fixed lens. It immediately came across as a quality camera, one with a strong reputation that clearly precedes it.
Using the rangefinder required a slight shift in how I approached focusing, and the first impression of the two ghosting images in the viewfinder took me by surprise. Before long, though, it became something I really enjoyed using and quickly turned into a firm favourite.
Learning the Rangefinder
The SP’s EV metering system was something I knew I needed to understand better, but with limited time available it wasn’t something I wanted to wrestle with straight away.
As with most unfamiliar cameras, I chose to work using the Sunny 16 rule until I felt more comfortable with how the camera behaved. Time was very much a factor with this one, and Sunny 16 gave me a reliable starting point.
Liverpool: Old and New
Liverpool, with its history and mix of old and new, gave me everything I needed to stretch the Olympus SP’s legs. The history of the city is unmistakable.
The River Mersey, iconic and historic buildings, old structures sitting alongside new ones, pubs, clubs, and the city’s people all offered constant opportunities. There was no shortage of subject matter, and the city more than delivered.
First Roll: Kodak Tri-X 400
For this trip, I chose Kodak Tri-X 400. This was my first time shooting Tri-X. I wanted something reliable while working with an unfamiliar camera. My usual black and white films are AGFA APX 400 or Ilford XP2, both of which I consider safe choices.
Tri-X gave a slightly period look, which suited Liverpool well. I wasn’t completely blown away by it, but I wasn’t disappointed either. I felt it lacked a bit of softness compared to what I’m used to.
However, I must be mindful that this is my first attempt with both camera and film, so allowances will need to be made. I’ll be returning to it.
A Favourite Frame
Choosing a favourite image wasn’t easy, but the photograph that stands out most to me is the one featuring the modern black, ship-like building with the historic clock tower along the Mersey behind it. It captures the way old and new sit together in the city without clashing. The presence of the seagull adds a small maritime reminder of Liverpool’s past and completes the image for me.
Shooting with Confidence
Once I became more comfortable with how the rangefinder worked, I found I could pull the SP out and shoot at a moment’s notice. Sunny 16 certainly helped, and on the odd occasion I referred to my Sekonic Twinmate L-208 light meter for confirmation.
The weather being overcast made things interesting at times, but Sunny 16 and the meter were generally very close.
On future outings, I’ll likely rely more on the Sekonic until I fully understand the SP’s EV system.
What the SP Does Well
A few things became clear while using the SP: its ease of use, portability, and the results it produces. I’ve genuinely fallen head over heels with it.
My initial impression of it feeling like an OM-1 with a fixed lens still feels accurate. As for Tri-X, I remain undecided. I’m happy with the results, but I feel there may be a better fit for me. My next roll will be AGFA APX 400 at the same ISO, which should give me a clearer comparison. By then, I may also have the EV system properly onboard.
What’s Left to See
If I return to Liverpool, which I intend to do, I’ll be looking to explore more of the city’s musical history – particularly The Beatles and Merseybeat.
Strawberry Field and Penny Lane are both on the list, along with many other icons and undiscovered buildings.
Time simply didn’t allow for everything on this visit, but I’ll be back armed and dangerous with the SP and another roll of film.
A Camera That Clicks
For any journey, I’d say the Olympus SP makes an excellent companion. It’s like an Olympus Trip 35 on steroids, with the excellence of an OM-1 thrown in for good measure and pleasure.
Can I compare it to other rangefinders I’ve used? Not really. They are what they are, and this is this.
But this one just works for me – and that’s all I really need.
You can follow Laurie’s work on Instagram @laurieinfocus
This is a guest OM Story. If you’re interested in contributing your own OM Story to Zuikography, feel free to get in touch.