The Camera Lucida 2000: How does it work?

The camera lucida 2000 is an optical instrument. Mirrors in the head of the instrument are used to create a reflected image of the subject. This image is seen by the artist as if it were already a picture on the drawing paper. The image is correctly orientated - it is the right way up and the right way round.. 

The picture (above right) is a photograph taken with the camera lens in the place of the artist's eye. It shows the image of the subject together with the artist's hand and pencil as it is seen by the artist.

Looking down, through the head of the instrument, you are ready to follow in the tradition of past masters by using optical accuracy to create drawings which display convincing realism.

On the underside of the drawing board you will find a plate with a screw fixing which enables the drawing board and Camera Lucida to be mounted on a standard camera tripod (NB. tripod not included)

For outdoor use the Camera Lucida with its drawing board fits conveniently into a portfolio along with all of your drawing materials. (NB. portfolio not included).

When working indoors and drawing from images, the support arms (included) positioned in the drawing board hold a angled surface on which to rest your photo. Or it can also be used to draw from images on your computer screen.

Remember, camera lucida doesn't need batteries or an electricity supply - just light!