Inspired by classic Twin-Lens Reflex cameras, the CHUZHAO brings vintage charm into the modern day. With its authentic turn-operated focus wheel and waist-level viewfinder, this pocket-sized camera offers a fun, hands-on shooting experience — perfect for casual photographers who love creativity on the go.
The name CHUZHAO (初照) means “first light” or “initial exposure” in Mandarin, celebrating the magic of every first frame. It honors the heritage of film photography while embracing portable innovation and modern quality.
Rechargeable, lightweight, and travel-friendly, CHUZHAO is more than just a camera — it’s a statement piece that lets you capture life with style and intention.
Your CHUZHAO comes included with the following gifts:
- Camera strap
- MicroSD card
- USB-C charging cable
Orders are processed within 1-2 business days from our warehouses. After dispatch, the estimated delivery time varies based on the shipping method you choose, generally taking anywhere from 3-5 business days.
To track your package in real time, visit our tracking page.
1990\retro offers hassle-free returns within 30 days of delivery.
If you feel that something is wrong with your order, contact support at support@1990retro.com so we may assist in providing you with an immediate solution.
Your complete satisfaction is important to us. For an overview of what is covered in our Warranty, view our full policy here.
At 1990\retro, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our products are meticulously designed and crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and performance. Here’s how we ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all our users:
Rigorous Quality Testing
Each product undergoes extensive testing during the production process to ensure it functions flawlessly under various conditions. From the durability of its compact design to the reliability of its battery, every detail is carefully inspected to meet our high-quality benchmarks.
Safety-First Design
Your safety matters to us. Our product is equipped with heat-resistant components to prevent overheating during extended use. The materials used are non-toxic and eco-friendly, ensuring peace of mind for you and the environment.
Commitment to Longevity
We believe in creating products that last. Each component is chosen for its durability, and our team is always innovating to provide the best possible performance.
Customer Support Promise
We stand by our product. Should you have any questions or concerns, our dedicated support team is ready to assist you. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us continue to improve. Thank you for making 1990\\retro a part of your most cherished spaces. Rest assured that you are holding a product designed with care, precision, and your safety in mind.
1-Year Warranty
If there is an issue with your camera, simply let us know within 365 days.
Tracked Shipping
Follow your order in real-time directly on our website.
Hassle-Free Returns
If you don't absolutely fall in love with it, send it back—no questions asked.
FAQs
Product Shipping & Logistics
Shipping may vary according to your final delivery destination. On average, orders can expect to be processed within 1 business day of purchase (excluding weekends and holidays), and fulfilled between 4 to 7 business days.
All 1990\retro cameras come with our amazing 1-Year Warranty. We may be small, but don't let that fool you—we make big promises.
Product Overview & Features
Yes! It is a fully-functional TLR complete with waist-level viewfinder and genuine focus wheel.
Yes! When video-recording mode is activated using the focus wheel, the CHUZHAO is fully-capable of capturing audio.
Your CHUZHAO is equipped with Classic, and Noire filter modes.
Setup & Installation
To turn the camera on and off, simply press and hold the [ON | OFF | FILTER] button for 2.5 seconds.
This button is located on the bottom-right corner of the camera's front body.
Battery & Power
To charge the camera's internal battery using the USB cable that arrived with your CHUZHAO, simply insert the USB-C male connector into its corresponding female counterpart located on the bottom of the camera.
The other end (the USB-A male connector) can be inserted into most universal charging blocks, and then plugged into its appropriate designated outlet.
From a state of near-depletion, performing a full recharge on the internal battery may take approximately 50 to 70 minutes.
Image, Video & Audio Quality
Memory & Storage
For storage, the CHUZHAO supports the MicroSD.
The CHUZHAO is only compatible with the File Allocation Table 32 (FAT32) format.
They are stored as JPG.
They are stored as AVI.
Shooting Modes & Settings
To capture video, simply begin turning the focus wheel clockwise, and your CHUZHAO will automatically transition into recording mode. Video will continuously be captured and and saved to its MicroSD memory card for as long as the wheel is turned.
To stop recording, simply discontinue turning the focus wheel. A 6-second timer countdown will appear on the waist-level viewfinder screen. When the time has fully elapsed, recording will stop automatically your camera will transition back into Live View photography mode.
Connectivity & Sharing
Check here for smooth step-by-step instructions on how to do just that.
We thought you might like to know.
See here: Android media transfer guide
Been there, done that. We made the steps so easy, it's like you're walking on water:
An age-old question; but one that has been answered time, and time again.
Here's our foolproof way of getting it done:
Device Care
No, the camera is not outfitted with water resistance. It is not recommended to directly-expose the camera to liquids of any type.
Your CHUZHAO is designed to be by your side, always ready to capture the next big thing.
As a best practice, we recommend to avoid exposing your camera to environments containing extreme heat, cold, humidity, and dust.
Troubleshooting & Repairs
This'll take some detective work. But don't worry, because we did all the detect-ing for you.
To solve the mystery, start here.
How long has it been since the camera and memory card last saw each other?
Only kidding🙃
Check our MicroSD card troubleshooting guide for clear step-by-step instructions on how to determine the cause, and then fix it like it never even happened.
This is your answer. For the record, we don't know why it's called that.
But we do know how to do it😉
Just select your computer's operating system below that will handle the reformatting task, and you'll be whisked away to the solution.
Warranty & Support
Our full Warranty Policy can be viewed here.
Tips & Best Practices
See our awesome guide:
Tips For Making Great Photos: Or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Sun.
Still stuck in the mud?
Our support team is always ready to help.
