MPP or Micro Precision Products to give them their full name where produced by a a British company immediately after World War II.
Many of the early cameras where built for the military, but the company soon developed the cameras into a popular tool for the press photographers of the day.
The model shown to the right is our MPP MK VIII, these where some of the last cameras ever produced by MPP and where the culmination of all the advancements they had made to each model as the line developed.
Due to their hand built nature, and the companies sudden demise, records are sketchy as to when cameras where produced, the MK VIII itself was in production from 1963 - 1988 and from what we know from the original owner this camera was purchased in the mid 60's.
The camera features an international standard 5x4 back and as well as taking sheet film holders it also supports Polaroid and Roll Film backs.
We have an extensive original kit complete with several lenses, original MPP Roll Film Backs, Polaroid backs, the original bulb flash (very rare as Lucas Films used these as the prop for Darth Vaders Light Sabre, and many where cannibalised for this purpose) and the MPP Zoom Optical Finder which acts as an eye level finder and can be adjusted to cover the various focal lengths the body supports.
We also use a Pressman Junior electronic flash, which was one of the first high powered electric press flash guns. When mounted it looks very similar to the MPP unit but fires a re useable tube, removing the need for use of and disposal of flash bulbs. Although we can operate whichever system the client prefers.
The camera is suited to location use or use in a studio environment, and produces fantastic images in both black and white and colour.
Our favourite use for it is as a hand held press camera at events, imagine your guests walking down the red carpet at a burlesque show and having the photographer stop them and photograph them with this... Its something that puts a smile on peoples faces and every one remembers. And thanks to the polaroid back, an image can immediately be given to the guest if required.
This is a truly beautiful camera in the flesh and the pictures really do not do it justice.
Its a real conversation piece at any event we take it to and people love to pose for it.
You can find out more about MPP , the company, their amazing and varied history, and their huge array of products via the fantastic and expansive website of the MPP Users Club.