ARFO-2

The large-format ARFO-2 camera was produced from 1933 to 1938. Cameras called ARFO replaced the EFTE cameras that we talked about earlier.

The production of large-format ARFO cameras began with the second model, that is, with ARFO-2, which simply replaced EFTE-2, that is, there is no camera called ARFO-1.

ARFO-2 Specifications

Type: 9×12 folding camera
Manufacturer: Foto-Trud
Production period: from 1933 to 1938
Format: 9×12
Lens mount: fixed lens
Lens: ARFO anastigmat f4.5/135
Shutter: leaf shutter with speeds of 1/25, 1/50 and 1/100 sec. plus B and T
Viewfinder: ground glass
Lighmeter: none
Flash synchronisation: none
Selftimer: none
Weight: 1140 grams

The first models of the ARFO-2 were not much different from the EFTE cameras. Some of the very first models even had “EFTE” inscriptions above the lens.

ARFO-2 Soviet large format camera front view

ARFO-2 Soviet large format camera with an open back

ARDO-2 Basic Information

The ARFO-2 is a 9×12 plate folding camera. Focusing is done using a ground glass, with a lever drive located in front of the slides on the lens board. The camera was also equipped with a so-called “sports viewfinder,” which is a simple folding frame that allowed quicker focusing without the use of ground glass.

The ARFO-2 was made with two configurations:

ARFO shutters (with the same speed range) and ARFO anastigmat lenses (f/6.3 135mm).
EFTE shutters (with speeds of 1/25, 1/50, 1/100 seconds, plus B and T) and ARFO periscope lenses (F = 15 cm).

ARFO-2 Lens

As I said above, the ARFO-2 camera was initially equipped with the ARFO Periscope 12/150mm lens, a simple two-element design. Subsequent models featured the ARFO Anastigmat f/4.5 120mm lens, offering improved optical performance. The ARFO-2a variant came with the ARFO Anastigmat f/6.3 135mm lens, providing a different aperture range (f/6.3, 8, 11, 16, 22, 32).

If we speak from the photographer’s point of view, then of course these lenses are a legacy of deep antiquity, and one should not expect any supernatural properties from them. But at the same time, these lenses are capable of creating a truly interesting picture with a touch of that very film atmosphere that many are looking for. Of course, these lenses show themselves best in black and white.

The lens of the ARFO-2 camera and front standard

ARFO-2 Shutter

The camera utilized a central leaf shutter with speeds of 1/25, 1/50, and 1/100 seconds, along with B and T modes. Today, this range of shutter speeds is quite limited, and even at the time of the camera’s release in the 1930s, it was not particularly impressive.

However, it is important to note that when using this camera, you typically work with a tripod and a cable release in a controlled and unhurried setting, making this range adequate for such purposes. If, however, you require more advanced capabilities, there are cameras available with the same image format that offer a significantly wider range of shutter speeds.

The shutter of the ARFO-2 camera with shutter speeds

ARFO-2 Body

The ARFO-2 featured a folding body design with a single-extension bellows, facilitating portability. Unlike more advanced models, it lacked lens decentering capabilities and double-extension bellows. The camera was constructed with a fixed lens mount and included a ground glass viewfinder for focusing. It did not have a built-in light meter, flash synchronization, or self-timer. The weight of the camera was approximately 1,140 grams.

Open back of ARFO-2 with a ground glass and lens visible

Ease of Use

This camera is a very basic tool in the hands of a photographer. It only includes the essential features any camera should have. However, it lacks the movements of the front and back standards, which are features many large-format camera users appreciate.

This absence makes it less practical for those who want to use the ARFO-2 for actual photography instead of collecting. When buying a large-format camera, you usually expect not just a large negative but also the ability to move the front and rear standards to adjust perspective and focus.

Soviet large format camera front standard

Soviet large format camera lens and shutter

Collectibility

Despite its limitations, the ARFO-2 is a good option for those looking to familiarize themselves with Soviet large-format cameras. However, like many Soviet large-format cameras, it is difficult to find an ARFO-2 in decent condition and at a reasonable price.

Conclusion

The ARFO-2 camera represents a simple but pretty functional example of Soviet large-format photography equipment from the 1930s. While it lacks advanced features such as front and rear standard movements, its design and configurations make it a useful tool for controlled, tripod-based photography. For collectors and enthusiasts, the ARFO-2 offers an accessible entry point into Soviet camera history, though finding well-preserved examples remains a challenge.

However, the ARFO-2 has notable drawbacks that limit its versatility. Its restricted shutter speed range and absence of standard movement capabilities make it less practical for photographers requiring greater flexibility and precision. Additionally, the single-extension bellows further reduces its adaptability. These limitations, coupled with the difficulty of finding models in good working condition, make their large format Soviet camera less appealing for serious photographic work and more suited to collectors or those exploring Soviet camera history.