PSA: Shitty Camera Challenge Is Starting on July 1

Hello, photographers! I thought I would remind you all that the Shitty Camera Challenge is starting in a couple days. From the Shitty Camera Challenge Fediverse account:

The theme for the next will be “Shitty Cameras”
The Rules are:
1) Starts June 1st till August 31st
2) Use a Shitty Camera
3) Post your photos & tag @ShittyCameraChallenge
What makes a shitty camera? The chart is a good place to start, but if you’re still not sure, just ask us & let the mob of shitters help. Our rule is law, all glory to the Elder Gods.
Flowchart describing which cameras are considered shitty. Basically any old camera is probably "shitty". But specifically: point and shoot cameras with a prime lens of f/2.8 or wider, a digital point and shoot over 10 MP, or DSLRs that are over 5 MP or have an expensive lens attached are NOT considered "shitty".
From the Shitty Camera Challenge Fediverse account

Sadly my Ricoh GXR, even though an old camera, doesn't fall under the "shitty" category, so I will instead use my Superheadz Sun&Cloud Camera.

Black rectangular solid-shaped camera sitting on a gray sofa cushion, a solar panel visible on its top, and the outline of a folded away handcrank visible on its side

It's a weird, box-shaped camera that can be recharged via its solar panel, a crank on its side, or by plugging in a mini-USB charging cable. I've posted some pictures from it before, but at the moment I'm feeling too lazy to link to any. 😝 Here's a quick snapshot of my Ricoh GXR from the Sun&Cloud.

Very low-res, grainy, wildly-colored snapshot of a hand holding a Ricoh GXR up at an angle on a couch cushion
Ricoh GXR, sorry, you're too good to participate in the challenge

Of course, you can do what you want. The challenge is pretty open. But I like leaning into the limitations of a shitty camera to make what I consider to be "nice" photos. For example, the black and white modes on the Sun&Cloud are actually pretty cool. And taking vivid mode photos aimed at the sun or other bright light sources makes for some epic lens flares. It's fun to get the creative juices flowing. Anyway, get out there and take some lovely shitty photos! 😀