TBC camera – a Croatian innovation in film photography

by croatiaweek
January 30, 2024
in Business

(Photo: IUTD Studios)

In the heart of the Croatian coastal city of Zadar, Josh Cirjak, a Canadian-Croatian entrepreneur, has embarked on a journey to blend innovation with nostalgia. Born in Canada, Josh moved to Zadar when he was 12 years old and after spending time studying back in Canada, he has returned again.

“I love being in Zadar primarily because of the simple life. When I was living in Canada, more than half my day was spent in a car going from one spot to the next. I love being by the sea, having my morning coffee, slow days, the beautiful nature, and how everyone is so proud of their country. I feel like being in Croatia was a catalyst for my brands success as it’s such a small country which allows us to be a big fish in a small pond,” Cirjak tells us.

Zadar

Whilst Cirjak says that a lot of people talk about how there’s not a lot of opportunity in Croatia, he thinks the opposite.

“Croatia is still developing and there’s so much space to grow unlike in other countries.”

Cirjak, alongside his friend Shraeyas Massey, envisioned revolutionizing the way we perceive disposable cameras. Their brainchild, the To Be Continued (TBC) camera, is not just a photographic tool; it’s a testament to creativity, endurance, and the spirit of collaboration.

(Photo: IUTD Studios)

While Josh’s roots may stretch back to Canada, his passion found fertile ground in Croatia. It was here that Cirjak found inspiration to breathe life into his vision.

For three years, Cirjak and his friend toiled relentlessly, refining their dream of crafting a transparent, reusable film camera. What began as after-school 3D printing sessions evolved into meticulous mold-making endeavors.

(Photo: IUTD Studios)

Their research uncovered a fascinating revelation: the anatomy of disposable and reusable cameras bore striking similarities. With a stroke of ingenuity, they reimagined disposables as enduring companions, birthing the TBC camera—aptly named for its promise of continuity, of memories ‘To Be Continued.’

(Photo: IUTD Studios)

Despite launching just three months ago, the TBC already graces shelves in 16 retailers across the globe—from New York to the Cyprus.

At its core, the TBC camera encapsulates simplicity and versatility. Boasting a built-in 28mm f/8 lens, a shutter speed of 1/120s, and a focus range from one meter to infinity. The integrated LED flash, with a range of up to two meters, ensures that no memory fades into obscurity.

(Photo: IUTD Studios)

Cirjak’s passion for photography resonates deeply within the TBC’s translucent frame. As a seasoned photographer and videographer, he envisioned a tool that transcends mere snapshots. The TBC isn’t just about pictures; it’s about encapsulating the essence of time, frozen in the embrace of analog simplicity.

(Photo: IUTD Studios)

With an initial investment of $30,000 in custom molds, Cirjak acknowledges that profit isn’t their primary motive. Their focus lies in crafting the perfect product—a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence.

(Photo: IUTD Studios)

To Be Continued (TBC) Specifications:

Film Format: 35mm (24x36mm), ISO 200/400
Optical Lens: 28mm/F8
Focusing: Focus Free, 1.0m
Shutter Speed: 1/120s
Film Transport: Manual Wind and Rewind
Viewfinder: Field=70%
Flash: Built-in Flash, 1~3m Flash Range
Power Source: 1xAA-Alkaline Battery
Camera Size: 120(W) x 65(H) x 40(D)mm
Camera Weight: 125g
Main Material: PETG & ABS