November Filmwalk: Close Quarters
I recently learned that the diner car in downtown St. Paul closed during lockdown, and will likely never reopen - so I'm collecting memories of another old-timey spot Al's Breakfast by visiting and taking photos. It is cozy in a way modern building codes do not allow, forcing a sense of community on patrons who happily chat while awaiting their meals. I once heard former owner Doug Grina characterize it as a labor of love that is not as profitable as a larger establishment can be.
Minnesota public radio has an audio postcard, an on-site chat, with founder Al Bergstrom in 1973:
archive.mpr.org/stories/1973/05/14/als-breakfast-in-dinky...
f/2.8, 1/30s
Camera balanced on coathook, above head, after focus on top right bulb (bokeh and shallow DOF test)
Agfa Super Silette-LK, Lady Grey 400
(Color Apotar 2.8/45mm)
contrast enhancement: DXO Filmpack, Kodak Tri-X preset
Note to self: I talked to a gentleman about cameras on this day, and recall him using a Contax T1. I re-examined the series and realize I want to aim for one, too. Unlike the later T2 and T3 models it has no onboard flash and is one of the smallest serious film cameras you can find.
November Filmwalk: Close Quarters
I recently learned that the diner car in downtown St. Paul closed during lockdown, and will likely never reopen - so I'm collecting memories of another old-timey spot Al's Breakfast by visiting and taking photos. It is cozy in a way modern building codes do not allow, forcing a sense of community on patrons who happily chat while awaiting their meals. I once heard former owner Doug Grina characterize it as a labor of love that is not as profitable as a larger establishment can be.
Minnesota public radio has an audio postcard, an on-site chat, with founder Al Bergstrom in 1973:
archive.mpr.org/stories/1973/05/14/als-breakfast-in-dinky...
f/2.8, 1/30s
Camera balanced on coathook, above head, after focus on top right bulb (bokeh and shallow DOF test)
Agfa Super Silette-LK, Lady Grey 400
(Color Apotar 2.8/45mm)
contrast enhancement: DXO Filmpack, Kodak Tri-X preset
Note to self: I talked to a gentleman about cameras on this day, and recall him using a Contax T1. I re-examined the series and realize I want to aim for one, too. Unlike the later T2 and T3 models it has no onboard flash and is one of the smallest serious film cameras you can find.