The Kowa Six - Best Camera You've Never Heard Of?
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- Опубликовано: 23 авг 2023
- #kowa #filmphotography #mediumformat #filmcamera #6x6 #classic #camerareview #Chattanooga
We're going back to the 1960s for an in-depth review and photo shoot with the Kowa Six medium format camera. It's big. It's heavy. But it can also be a solid performer. Check out why it may be the best camera you've never heard of.
Also, be sure to check out @the120ist for another great review of the Kowa Six.
For more vintage and classic camera goodness, check out the Vintage Camera Digest website - vintagecameradigest.com
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I not only heard of it, I used it as my wedding camera for years! Thanks for the memories!
You’re welcome! I bought this one for that same purpose. Used it on many!
Its energizing to see a photographic vlog on RUclips (1) by someone over 30 and (2) who actually knows what they're talking about. Huzzah! I have subscribed and greatly look forward to your future videos. Sraight talk, no distracting special effects and core insights. You're no slouch as a photographer, either, unlike the hordes of wannabees posting.
For perspective on the price of the ultra-wide angle lens in 1969, I bought my first new vehicle, a Ford F-100, in May, 1970, for $2,000 even. The bench seat was large enough for my Pentax H1a, Ciroflex and Speed Graphic, while the tripod, dark cloth, etc. went in the bed.
Thanks! Yeah I thought it was about time for Gen X to get some representation here. As for that 19mm fisheye- I actually saw an auction this week where the seller had one, as well as ALL the other lenses. But apparently he must have sold it off-line because it was X-ed out in the photos. I thought about sending them a message just to see what it went for. Still might do it. And thanks for the truck analogy. Yeah that puts a good perspective on it. Sort of like how a brand new Leica would cost as much as a car. Crazy.
@@vintagecameradigest Don't forget, there are plenty of us Boomers still around shooting.
The best reviewer of cameras on you tube by far. Most of my cameras are 60's, 70's, 80's. Perfect viewing for me.
Thanks so much for the kind words! Those are my favorite decades for cameras, as well. So much evolution in design and technology.
Love the way you tell the story, matching this camera perfectly, a quirky old-school 👍
Thank you! I’m definitely quirky and old school, so you nailed it 100% 😄.
First and foremost, I'd like to thank you for creating such an excellent, informative video for people considering purchasing the Kowa Six camera.
Second, I was successful in adapting the latter black Kowa Six lenses to DSLR and mirrorless cameras. The optics are excellent, with excellent sharpness and contrast, and the 55mm and 150mm are among the finest vintage lenses from the 70s and 60s I've seen. The 85mm and 200mm also offer excellent optics, particularly the 200mm, which is a stunning portrait lens that does an excellent job of separating the subject from the background.
Thanks for the kind words. I’m glad you enjoyed it! And I’m quite intrigued about adapting these lenses to modern bodies. Did you create the adapter? Or is there something off the shelf? I’m guessing you bypass the lens shutter altogether and maybe use the stop-down lever to set the aperture?
I have a Kowa Six that I've had since the 60s. I bought it brand new from Camera Barn in NY. I always wanted a Hasselblad 500c but never could afford it, so I settled for the Kowa. Ironically some of the best shots I've ever taken were with the Kowa Six with the 85mm. I never dreamed about that Hasselblad again, being completely satisfied by the results from that combo. I later scraped up enough cash to purchase the 55 and 150mm lenses. The camera has followed me all the way from NY to Arizona, in 1980, preserved in an aluminum Bittco case and looks brand new to this day. I, on the other hand, have begun to show my age. Like you, I'm amazed at how heavy it has become. As a result, I now roam around with an Olympus Micro 4/3s camera and, only occasionally, use the Kowa. Thanks for your RUclips video on this lovely piece of photographic gear.
Thanks for watching! Yes, I consider my Kowa part of my own personal photography story. I started with the 85mm of course, but soon acquired the 150mm. I used that one for many years in the studio. It’s perfect for a nice tight portrait. It’s definitely a camera I’ll never part with. Even if it is a bit heavy to lug around :-)
What a great video! No, I haven't heard of this camera except maybe once when. I was a kid. I'ma subscribing as medium format is the best film format.
Thank you! Glad you found it interesting. And I agree - medium format is excellent!
I love this video 😌👌🏾. You have a very calming voice. I have a Kiowa Six, and it’s amazing. Haven’t used it in a while, but I will after watching this video. Thank you.
Thanks for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed it. Get that Kowa out and put a couple of rolls through it. Happy shooting!
I started photography very young about 10 when i got the bug. at 21/2 I had a high st studio , my main camera had been Nikon, but now i was going to be taking 3/4 wedding a week and medium format was a must back then. So this was my choice due to limited funds, so I had 2 bodies and 3 lenses . I had the 50mm 85mm and 150mm lenses. They served me well . I later replaced them with 2 Mamyia RB 67's with similar lens sizes and about a dozen film backs 120/220. That revolving back was incredible, giving a much much larger useable film area, bigger was better then ! But the weight ! Phew
I originally bought this Kowa for wedding work because - as you said - medium format was a must back then. Even though I eventually went with another camera system, I’ll always hold on to this one. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for sharing, it brought back memories. I had a super 66 I used on weddings, great camera. I wish I still had it.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for tuning in!
Nice Kowa SIX video! As someone who owns several and has worked on them, you nailed things fairly well with this video. I have seen a video or two where someone complains about the mirror slap ruining focus, but I think its due to inexperience --- I think they are holding the lens with one hand to stabilize when shooting and their hand moves the focus ring. There's not enough slap vibration there to move the focus ring on its own. While I love the system and think that a WORKING one is a joy to use and produces great results in the right hands, they are really problem-children. Most that are on eBay have not really been used for decades and suffer from light seal issues, sticky leaf shutter lenses, and jammed mirrors/wind systems. I think the chances of buying a bad one are greater than the chances of buying a good one. I would say to anyone buying one via eBay to be certain the buyer is reputable and takes returns. I have several SIX's and Super 66's that I will be putting up for sale in the near future. I've watched the market tick up slightly on them the last few years, but they haven't become as expensive as most of their competition.
I bought mine from KEH before there was ever a dot-com, so I was confident it would be in good shape - unlike eBay these days. But you’re exactly right - make sure the seller accepts returns and that it’s explicitly stated in the description that it works 100%. In my case, I think the nostalgia of it biases me a bit. Add to that the fact I haven’t had any issues with the camera itself. Maybe it just means that I’m the luckiest Kowa owner ever, lol. Way back in the day, Ross Yerkes was said to be the Kowa guru for repairs, and I think he’s still around. So it’s not impossible to find repairs, but yeah, you don’t need it turning into a money pit. Cheers!
@@vintagecameradigest He is still around, but unless one is a fan of his world views I couldn't recommend him and that's why I didn't mention his name. That is actually what caused me to learn to work on them myself. I already have repaired several other cameras, and that just tipped me into the world of Kowa fixing. Most of the things that go wrong can be repaired by any good repair shop ---- the problem is just parts. If something is broken like a wind gear or a damping cylinder, it is difficult to find. I've hoarded a few parts here and there over the years that make life easier when working on one. Thanks again for the great vid. I gave you a follow. Cheers!
@@jeremymudd8507 thanks for the follow! Now that you mention it, I think I have heard similar stories about RY. 😬 I’ve never used him for anything, myself. Hopefully I won’t need to.
Glad I found your channel.
Welcome!
I've not ever seen your channel. You have incredible camera presence and speaking about your camera knowledge without the smugness some on youtube have. How long have you been doing presenting like this?
Wow…thanks so much for the very kind words 🙏🏼 Video presenting is actually rather new to me. I began working on this channel a little over a year ago, but didn’t publish the first video until this one on the Kowa. However, I’ve been teaching photo classes since about 1995, so that definitely helps! One thing I don’t ever want to do is come across like I know everything. I like to continuously be in learning mode. And with a lot of these cameras, I’m a complete newbie. And it’s actually fun to show the mistakes as well as the successes. Again, many thanks for the message. It may have just made my day. Cheers!
great photos there sir, just ordered mine on ebay and can't wait to shoot it
That’s awesome! I think you’ll really enjoy the Kowa. Keep me posted here on how it goes. Exciting times!
@gackal1982 did you get that Kowa delivered yet? Interested to know what you think about it.
Great overview! Thanks for sharing!
Thank you - and thanks for watching!
Great video, thank you
And intresting camera
Thanks!
I sold my Kowa 6 to a kid that had been shopping for a Holga! I think he chose wisely.
He certainly did! Hopefully it saved him many hours of disappointment, lol. I mean, I can see where the lo-fi interpretation that comes with the Holga and Diana type cameras has a place. But, I’d hate to be restricted to that 100% of the time.
Very very nicely presented ..... Hats off to you sir on the presentation here. I remember that we had one or two of these in the used camera case of the store that I worked at in the late '70s. Interesting camera for sure but the Hasselblad just does everything so much better and the lenses nowadays are not expensive unless you're looking for a mint 40 distagon or the 30 fisheye. Thanks again and happy shooting.
Thank you! There’s no question that a Hassy is more refined. I used to have an old 500C, and the craftsmanship, fit and feel of it was just incredible. And I’m sure a more modern body would be that much more impressive. I ended up selling mine right before I started getting back into film photography. Obviously I wasn’t thinking straight. Thanks for tuning in!
Got one of these in the 1980s. That's a whole story right there. Just a part of the tale: It came in a press board suitcase used by the artist Robert Rauschenberg to carry his Hoar Frost Series to Los Angeles in his lap. On a 707. I loved the Kowa Six, but.
It's a great portrait camera because the lenses are just a bit soft. All those young guys going into mortgage level debt to buy Hasselblads to shoot models with? They came back later and bought some kind of soft filters. Hassy's were designed to map Sweden during WWII. You don't need to see every fence post when you're shooting beauty. The 55mm lens is okay, but unless it's stopped down two stops the corners are blurry. Not soft, blurry.
Mechanically the Kowa Six has a congenital flaw. There's a big gear wheel for film winding. It's pressed metal, so lean into that film crank a bit and it warps, the camera seizes up. In the 1990s it would cost me $80-$150 to have that fixed, in the 1990s a very odd guy wanted $450. Wasn't worth it. If you want one, and intend to shoot film with it: don't plan on shooting too much film (probably stick to 120); make sure it's working when you buy it. (It's not currently stuck, it's broken. ) One tech made a new stronger gear for it. I think the issue is there's just not enough room for a gear thick enough to not warp.
So somewhere in a closet at my house is a seized Kowa Six, 55, 85mm and 150mm lenses. Maybe I put them back into the Rauschenberg suitcase - his name and address in NYC was written all over it, against getting lost. It was written in Sharpie, which is after 20 years fugitive. (I'd rather have that suitcase legible than the camera.) The Pentax 6x7 much much better camera, mechanically, optically. A Pentax 6x7 with the grip is bar none the best camera you could have if attacked by a bear. I've also had a twin lens Mamiya. Good, but those twin lenses were so slow working with they aren't worth using for anything other than a studio set up or landscape. I can set up a 4x5 quicker. (I've shot everything from sub 35mm to 8x10., spent years in the darkroom.) Can you repair cameras, cut gears -- maybe titanium? I've got a Kowa Six you can have.
Wonderful story there … about Mr. Rauschenberg, not the Kowa, :-)
Yes, that Kowa flaw has been known to me since I bought it. The fear of it lingering in the back of my mind…and tempering my gusto with winding. I recall a bit of advice was to never use the flip-out crank - just turn the knob. I guess it slows you down enough to do the minimum damage. I don’t know. All I know is that I’ve been lucky so far to not experience the jam up. So I’ll keep shooting it with fingers crossed.
I did shoot weddings with it regularly for a year or two, then picked up a Hassy 500C. I loved that camera. And you’re exactly right about the lenses. Almost too sharp. Everyone was using the Softar filters on their portraits. Seems Softar #2 was the favorite because it was always expensive on the used market back then. I looked it up recently on eBay, and now they’re going for a pittance. My how times change.
And thanks for the info on the Mamiya TLR. It’s always been an interesting concept, and I’ve tossed around the idea of trying one out. But, I’ve heard from others, as well, that the user experience leaves a little to be desired. Maybe someday…
And, unfortunately, I’m not up to par on milling my own camera parts just yet, so I guess I’ll have to pass on the offer :-) Many thanks for the interesting comment and for tuning in! Cheers!
Good info. So my ADHD killed my Kowa. There was a Los Angeles photographer who died young in the 1990s who I think used a Kowa. He made big apocalyptic city scapes , toned prints with chemical stains. Square format. I kind of remember him as Joe Fess Foss ??? (Light the fighter pilot) Can't find him through Google. I think he used the Kowa Six. @@vintagecameradigest
I’m not familiar with that name, but would be fun to research that. Sounds like he did some interesting work that I’d like to see.
And you might imagine how difficult it is for me to NOT use the crank. I think I used it for every shot in this video. But I do try to make a conscious effort to just use the knob. It’s not a very comfortable knob, though, lol.
James Fee. I remembered. His Wikipedia entry says he used a Russian camera. So no Kowa. @@vintagecameradigest
Had to check that out. Sounds like I’d enjoy his photos. He used a Kiev 90 - which I also have never heard of. I knew of the Kiev 60 and 80, though. Another successful day when I’ve learned something new! Thanks!
An amazing camera, mine produced some of my favourite photos I’ve taken. Just be careful with playing with settings, I once wasted an entire roll by using the wrong setting. Great channel, looking forward to your future videos 📸
Thanks! Thankfully it’s been a great camera for me too. I don’t use it as much as I used to, but when I do pick it up it always treats me right.
Loved this video. Just subscribed,
Thank so much!
A great review.
Thanks so much! And thanks for tuning in!
Amazing you get good shots without a tripod. 👍
Yes, I purposely didn’t use one on this shoot just to see if that monstrous mirror slap would be too problematic. But since I had 400 speed film on a sunny day my shutter speeds were up there. Still, the last shot with the 250mm at 1/125 surprised me.
Great video! I have some heavy cameras. I've gotten into the habit of using a monopod. It helps to have something take the weight so I can think about composition and exposure.
Definitely a great idea, there!
Thank you for a really informative video! I have been using Kowa Six for a couple of years now, and despite its quirks (and couple self repairs on the body and lenses), it's been an absolute joy to use.
I was extremely lucky to find the 35mm f4.5 (with a sticky shutter) for just 50€ from the local camera store! Thankfully the lenses are quite easy to open, and I was able to clean up the shutter and it's now in a fully working condition. Like the other Kowa lenses, it's really sharp and has surprisingly low distortion. The only negatives that I can say of the lens is the large 95mm front filter thread so you'd need to use a rear lens gel filter holder and pretty busy out of focus areas.
Wow! I’d say you hit the Kowa Lens Lotto with that find at that price. Kudos to you! I’m certainly glad to hear that it performs on par with the other lenses - which I’m not surprised. Glad you enjoyed the video!
I used the Lee filter system and it for sizes over 100mm. I used the bellows hood with it too which controlled lens flare and gave better contrast, not to mention protection from the weather. It wasn't that bulky to carry around.
@pale2662 Regarding your self repair: have you ever had to repair the shutter? Once I load film into my Kowa 6, my shutter never cocks, it just winds through the entire roll. Not sure where to start to fix it. Any advice will help.
No meter or dark slide that you don't need, Kowa 6 is a great camera indeed!
And it’s one of the easier medium format cameras to load
I have one. 55, 85, and 150 lenses. All incredibly sharp and incredible Bokeh. Tack sharp 20" square print partraits that are amazing! I need to get mine out again and get to shooting!
Yes you do! Put that thing to work!
I used to own a Kowa for a while in the early 2000's, which I bought cheaply with two lenses and the side handle, the low price being because it needed some servicing: one of the lenses was stuck, there was some fungus, the baffle material in the camera was all disintegrating, so it also became a kind of camera restoration project for me, taking the lenses apart, cleaning them, and replacing the baffle material of the camera body.
As nice as the camera was, and as cheap as it was to buy old medium format lenses in those days, I think I decided I preferred the rangefinder workflow of the Mamiya 7II as well as the significantly lighter weight, so I sold the Kowa and kept the Mamiya that I already owned before I bought the Kowa, and in the end, I had spent more time restoring the camera and lenses than I did actually taking pictures with it, but that was actually quite a nice experience too.
I agree! Tinkering with these old cameras is rather fun for the most part - until that tiny spring or ball-bearing goes flying 😁. Sorry your Kowa experience didn’t go as well as it could have. But you can hardly go wrong with that Mamiya setup. Especially considering the weight savings.
I am just working myself through some sticky Kowa lenses and start liking the system. at first I was a Little surprised by the Weight and the size. But now since I’ve got the Camera, working ein Shot the first Roll of Film it is quiet Nice to shoot.
Really a well made video. I am looking forward for the next ones. 😊
Yes the Kowa is heavy, but not really more than other medium format cameras of that era. I think you'll find it not so bad when you realize how capable it is. Thanks for the kind words!
Thanks for this review! Very nice! Love my two Kowa Six (original) cameras. I would not trade them for a Hasselblad. I like the outsider I guess 🙂 The second Kowa I bought was sold as not working. I found out it had a broken winder gear inside that I had to fix. Going to CLA my 55mm lens that I bought with the issue that the shutter does not fire right away. Need cleaning up I guess. I have no CLA services where I live, so I'm learning to do it myself. It is very enjoyable to fix these old cameras and at least for the camera it is simple enough. The lenses is a level or two up. I was really impressed with the 250mm lens you used. I didn't think it would be that sharp, I definitely have to get one of those.
It’s impressive to take on a CLA project like that. But I think a lot of us are finding out that sometimes that way is the only way these days. I had a couple of junk Kowa lenses that I acquired to learn the disassembly steps, etc. I decided afterwards that I was not cut out for that. As for the 250mm - I was just as surprised as you. I really had not shot with that lens much at all over the 15 years I’ve had it (someone gave it to me). It definitely stays in my Kowa bag, now. Thanks for tuning in!
@@vintagecameradigest Do you know if the angled prisms have the same size where is connects to the camera for Kowa Six and the 66? I don't want to do the mistake I did when buying the focus screen and discovering the 66 version was bigger.
So, you made the same mistake I did with the focusing screen, then. That was a bummer because I really wanted that microprism spot. As for the prisms, I can’t speak with any authority that they’re different or the same. However, almost ALL of the prisms I see for sale are attached to a “Six” - not a “66”. Therefore I think it’s highly likely that any of the prisms will fit the “Six”. I just can’t say for certain.
I believe Kowa Six lenses are very high quality, the only real problem with the Kowa Six camera being spares availability these days if you have one that develops a fault that needs parts replacement.
Exactly. The lens repairs are certainly more workable than any repair on a Kowa body. There’s a guy out in California, I think - Ross Yerkes - who’s been said to be the go-to shop for Kowa repairs. I heard this back in the 90s, but I think he’s still around. But, yes, if you’re considering picking one of these up, DEFINITELY make sure the seller accepts returns and that the description says it’s 100% working. Cheers!
@@vintagecameradigest As far as parts and repair, think worldwide. There are plenty of good places I've used long ago when I couldn't find anything US.
Thanks so much for this very comprehensive video, and a nice trip down memory lane. It brings back lots of fond memories from the 1970's, when I began my journey into photography. I never owned a Kowa, but I bought my first Hasselblad 500CM in 1972 for the sum of $620. Within the year I also purchased the left-hand grip for my Hasselblad, and also their 45 degree prism. My best friend, who was a Nikon shooter, did buy the Kowa 6. We spent a few years shooting together every chance we could. I can't think of a Kowa without remembering the good times we had with our cameras.
I also note you are using an old Minolta incident meter as well as a Soligor spot meter. I still own a Minolta Flash Meter IV from about 1985 with the optional flat and reflective domes, and until a few years ago, owned a Pentax 1 degree spot meter. Today I use a more modern Sekonic L-758DR which has a built-in 1 degree spot, which is why I ultimately sold the Pentax Spot meter.
It was so great to see someone using similar equipment today that I used decades ago. Thank you!
Glad it brought back pleasant memories! I think these old cameras often put me in that historic mind space - even though I may not have actually owned them in their heyday. I’m just glad I get the opportunity to use them now. I did own a Hassy 500C for a while, but ultimately sold it when I thought I was done with film. I kick myself every day for that. You’re correct about the old meter. It’s an Autometer III. The spot meter is actually a Minolta Spotmeter F. I guess I’m a Minolta fan of sorts. My first “real” camera was an X-700 that I used in college. Now using THAT would definitely put me in a nostalgic frame of mind 😄. Again, glad you enjoyed the video. Hope you’ll tune in often!
Thanks for the clarification on the spot meter. I never knew that Minolta had a spot meter! It looks similar to the old Soligor spot. Speaking of Minolta's, my first SLR was a Minolta SRT-101. Rather than go with the 50mm, I bought a Rokkor 135/2.8 lens. I shot with that one lens for over a year, and still have b&w prints from it to this day. I have bought & used so many different cameras over my 50+ years as a photographer. The only "constant" brand in my bag throughout those years has been a Hasselblad - from the 500CM in 1972 to the X2D today. FYI - I have subscribed. Looking forward to more "vintage" reviews.
I love the SRTs! I have several that I use in some of the classes I teach. Solid, dependable, manual classics! That’s interesting about choosing the 135mm over the 50mm. But it sounds like an effective way to “expand” your vision - or in this case “narrow” it. I get hung up on using too many lenses sometimes. So sometimes it’s good to put just one in the bag and make a challenge of it.
Too many lenses can "almost" be as bad as not enough. I currently have 8 primes, plus a 1.7 converter for my X2D. Too many, and way too heavy to carry all at once. I usually bring everything with me, but select a choice few when I leave the car. When possible, I've been known to "wheel" my full bag on a small dolly or in a collapsible wagon. But even then, the more lenses you carry, the more time you are apt to spend changing lenses rather than shooting!
That is absolutely true! What’s interesting is that even though I’m aware of the “choice paralysis” that comes with having all the lenses with me, I still take them - then shoot a good 80% of the shots on the 50mm (or whatever the normal lens is for the format) anyway. I KNOW that I’ll do this, but take them all anyway. I’m sure it’s a mental defect with me. 😄
Hoping to see more videos. Might rekindle interest in using my TLRs ... assuming I can get them serviced.
Thanks for watching! I have a few TLRs on the list to cover: Ricohmatic 225, Graflex 22 and the Yashica Mat-124G (with tele and wide auxiliary lenses). Not sure which one to do first. Which do you think?
@@vintagecameradigest Either the Richoh or Yashica. I have a Rolleicord, Mamiya C330s (weighs a ton!) and an Ikoflex.
I think I’ll do the Ricoh first since I’ve got a Yashica rangefinder coming up in a couple of weeks. But the Mat-124G won’t be too far down the road, I’m sure. Thanks for the feedback!
Hi Steven, I love your video. Every time I hear the song #9 Dream by John Lennon, I think of this camera!
Ah! böwakawa (I bought a Kowa)😊
YES! You’re so right 😄. Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed it.
Owned one in for many years
Mine used to see a lot more action. But I hope to change that. Planning on taking it out this weekend. Thanks for tuning in!
I had the Kowa 6MM. The only problem I had was the PC socket on the lens. It was a weak point and would break so I couldn’t use a flash. I tried to get a replacement lens only to find it, too, suffered the same issue. If you get a perfect copy, hold onto to it. Great camera, otherwise.
Interesting…that is one thing I haven’t had happen yet. Years ago I had the PC terminal come a bit loose on one of my lenses, but that was about it. I’ll definitely watch out for it. Thanks for the tip!
Ooh, a pleasent surprise. Nice seeing someone talking about it. Its not very known even in Japan. Amazing Camera. I shot a whole photobook on it.I love 80mm so much I adapted one to Nikon Mount just to use it on D850. Its not as clinical as Hasselblad's ones, but still sharp. It has its own character. 110mm is also nice.
"Kowa" (Ko pronounced like "Co" in "Coca-Cola")
It has its perks, prone to jamming a lot... but its beautiful, very nice sounding camera. I own two. One just for repairs ;)
I’d love to try a 110mm one day, but it’s been several years since I’ve seen one for sale. I really enjoy the 150mm for portraits, and I need to get it out and do more with it. And thanks for the pronunciation correction. Someone else also pointed it out, and I got to thinking that I doubt I’d ever heard it pronounced at all - since, as you said, not many folks talking about them. But, hey, I’m not too old to learn. Thanks for watching! Cheers!
Actually, "Ko" is not pronounced like the "Co" in Coca-Cola either as the "o" in "ko" is not a diphthong. It's pronounced more like "caw".
@@hakonsoreide i leave the english explanations to emglish speaking people.but yeah, for some reason foreigners like to educate me on my native japanese :).
@@TimGalloVids If that keeps happening to you, have you considered the possibility that it's because the English word examples you use might actually be pronounced differently by native English speakers than what you think? Also, when you compare Ko in Kowa with Co in Coca-Cola, it sounds like a sound comparison that a native English speaker would make, as it is a common phenomenon for monolinguistic English speakers not to hear the difference between [o:] and [oʊ].
The thing is, I don't think anyone would try educating you on your native Japanese if they realised that was your mother tongue. I certainly wouldn't. My comment would have been similar, but I'd have pointed out that's not how Coca-Cola is pronounced in English rather than how Kowa is pronounced in Japanese.
@@hakonsoreide thank you for educated explanation. makes sense.
Thanks. I liked your way of producing a video and I learned a lot about a camera I’ve been curious about.
Possible hint: you may find that exposing Tri-X at EI 200 (and pulling the development to match) removes the need to bracket.
I had great luck doing that with my “Texas Leica” - Fujica G690BL. Also, I highly recommend Pyrocat HD as a developer. It works a treat on Tri-X at 200, protecting the highlights from blowing out, giving good shadow density and very sharp negatives. I use Extreme Minimal Agitation - taught to me by Steve Sherman.
Now, I’ve simplified to a Rolleicord IV and HP5+.
Thanks again and good luck.
Thanks for tuning in! And thanks for the tip on Pyrocat. I’ve been intrigued by that since I watched a video on it a few months ago. Definitely something I should try. Also, curious as to your reasoning on parting with the Fuji. I’ve never shot a medium format rangefinder and would love to try it. And the Fuji is one I’ve been considering. Thanks again for the development tip!
@@vintagecameradigest Mamiya made a couple of small medium format cameras, the 6 and 7 that you might like.
I have seen those...and the prices! Wow. But they must be fantastic cameras. I do have one of the original Mamiya-6 folding rangefinders. But, yeah, I'm sure it doesn't compare to those modern ones.
I used one ih the early 1970.
Back in the heyday! How was it?
Years ago in another life (late 60s/early70s) I sold cameras for a living. Having a camera store as your personal borrowing bin (just familiarization you know 🤣) I got to play with one of these when it first hit the shelves in 68. Really liked it, but just couldn't justify the cost. Always wondered what happened to them after I left the camera business. Looking back, their quirks were no better or worse than any of their contemporaries and they cost a lot less. The closest thing to perfection was the Rolleiflex TLR, with the limitation being the fixed lens (notwithstanding the Mutars). For 17yrs that was the only camera I owned.
One day I may be fortunate enough to try out a real Rolleiflex. I mean it's on my bucket list and all. But then I may feel guilty about all these others that will gather dust at that point :-) I do like my Kowa, though. I loved the way it performed in the studio with the 150mm. I'll need to dedicate another episode just for that. Thanks for watching!
@@vintagecameradigest My pleasure.
I worked at/managed camera stores in SoCal for over 27 years. The only thing that beat working there and having reps loan you samples was when turned to writing reviews etc and I could contact Canon in the afternoon West Coast time and the next morning there'd be a big box delivered full of goodies I could use for two weeks to over a month. Christmas almost every day.
Sounds like a dream job!
My first year working in a camera shop we sold Kowas (I think it was pronounced Co-Wa not Cow-Wa but wouldn't bet my life on it). I worked in/managed pro camera shops for over 27 years before quitting and shooting pro as well as writing reviews and had my own column on photography 12-13 years ago.
I remember handling the Kowas and thinking they were really nice.
Do they use foam for the light trap around the film back? Was it the type that disintegrated or turned to sludge with age? I had several cameras I had to install new light trap material and a Canon that used a piece of foam in it's SLR to soften mirror slap.
I set myself the goal of for one day shooting without a meter, just using the info on the film's data sheet. I got some of the best exposures of my life that day.
Glad to see you're still getting good use out of the camera. Keep it serviced and it should last as long as parts are available for it ... and you.
The best medium format camera I ever used, and I used almost every one under the sun, was the Bronica GS-1 6x7. I ended up buying a used Bronica SQAm with built-in motor drive. I liked 6x6 because you never had to choose portrait or landscape, just shoot and decide formate later or keep it square.
Yes, the Kowa does use that nasty foam as a mirror damper AND for the light seal on the film door. Mine needs replacing for sure.
Way back in the day I REALLY wanted a GS-1. Would still love to try one at some point. One of the reasons I've not put it at the top of my list is that the GS lenses aren't quite as fast as what the Pentax 67 offers, for example. But sounds like that really shouldn't be a deal-breaker? Thoughts?
@@vintagecameradigest The reason I fell in love with the GS-1 was the almost 3D quality they brought to some images and I've talked with several other photographers over the years who owned or shot with them who said the same thing. The colors and contrast characteristics of the lenses I shot with were exceptional especially with Kodachromes.
Curious - When you use your Minolta incident meter outdoors, say, on the car shots - how do you determine how or where you angle or aim the dome? Do you simply aim it back to the camera, or do you angle it elsewhere for whatever reason? And do you ever purposely compensation the camera's exposure from what the meter reads? Thanks.
Great questions! When I'm using the incident meter, I'll aim the dome back to the camera and make sure that I'm holding it in the same light that falls on the subject. This works great on subjects such as the cars where there are lots of reflections and different colors/tones of paint which might fool the camera's reflected light meter. The incident meter ignores all that - measuring only the light falling on the subject without regard to it's reflectivity. That being said...on the photos of the cars shot with the XE-7, I ONLY used the camera's meter. And that was mainly for testing it's ability to meter correctly. The XE did a fine job in aperture priority mode, regardless of the reflections/paint/etc. However, there were two automobiles there that I knew might be problematic: the white Trans-Am and the black older car with the spare tire mounted in the fender. So, I did manually compensate to shoot about 1-stop over on the white TA, and about 1-2 stops under on the black car. If I had used an incident meter for those two subjects, I wouldn't have needed to make any adjustments at all because the color of the paint would've had zero effect on the reading. Incident meters are very accurate, but they're not always as practical as the camera meter - especially for subjects that are distant from the camera.
@@vintagecameradigest As long as the light falling on the incident meter's dome is close to that of even a far away object you're ok. If the subject was in total shade I'd block the sun from hitting the dome with my other hand. If it was getting sunlight and shade I'd spread my fingers a little. It was close enough.
If you have the time while shooting I highly recommend the McBeth/X-Rite/whatever company owns them now, Color Checker Passport. It's great for making your own color profiles. You can make ones for sunny days, cloudy days, in your home. Come with software to use with Lightroom. For color balance/contrast, highlights and shadows, etc. In a plastic case that fits in your back pocket and is nearly indestructible.
That makes sense about the metering and is a good tip!
For my video work I use a SpyderChecker 24 - which I’m pretty sure is the same as the Macbeth chart. It’s not small enough to fit in my pocket though. That would be nice 👍
I was thinking a red filter would be good for the scene. It would add a lot of contrast to the sky.
I keep a few lens wipes (alcohol soaked) in my field kits for just those instances when I need to give a lens a quick wipe (carefully).
The Sunny 16 rule was certainly in effect for your shoot. I might add a couple of ND filters to the kit. That would give you options for aperture when shooting outdoors with fast film.
I really enjoyed your video.
Thanks for watching and glad you enjoyed it! Yes I would have loved to use that red filter on a lot of these shots. So, like you said, I should keep some wipes in the bag for emergencies. I normally wouldn’t have used a 400 speed film in this instance, but it was what I had at hand AND I was banking on using that red filter. This shoot is an example of what happens when you don’t have a contingency plan. 😬
@@vintagecameradigest I noticed your mention of a red filter (ha) after I made my comment. I also keep a polarizer and/or ND filter in my kit just because of this.
You are really bad for my latent GAS affliction. I've been researching Bronica S2A rigs since I watched that video. Thanks for your tips there on differentiating between the S2 and S2A. The "wings" tip revealed a *lot* of the fleaBay listings are really S2 bodies and not S2A bodies.
I've been thinking about standardizing on a couple of film stocks. There is something to be said for learning and knowing one's film. I always liked Tri-X, but figure I should spend some time with Tmax and Ilford films before settling in.
If you haven't done it already, I'd be interested in seeing your post-shot workflow. Do you have a standard developer you use? Why or why not?
Thanks again for your videos. You are one of the best content creators in this genre that I have found.
Really nice looking camera, beautiful design. I recently got my an Bronica SQ, which has been great fun so far but I wish it looked abit more old school like this one or the old Hasselblads. Thanks for the leaf shutter tip, as Im new to medium format I had no idea that could be an issue. I'll definitely subscribe 👍
Thanks for watching! Yeah, the Kowa does scream “old school”. It’s gotta be the silver lenses. 😁 I’m not surprised that you like the SQ. I’ve contemplated one, myself, but haven’t picked one up yet. But last year I did buy a Bronica S2A, and it quickly became one of my faves. The styling is just fantastic. I’ll have a review on that one coming up within the next few weeks. Thanks for the subscribe and happy shooting!
thanks for the video - i have the same camera with an 85mm and the 250mm lenses. i have the hand grip also. do you know if the angle of the hand grip is adjustable? mine is at an extreme angle and not comfortable or natural feeling at all. i cant see where it could be adjusted. do you know anything about that? thank you for any info you can give me,
To my knowledge, it can’t be adjusted. I did think of that angle as a bit odd when I first saw it. I sorta get the purpose of the angle, but I can see where some might not like it. Kowa did make a different grip for later models. From what I can tell from photos, it attaches differently and doesn’t have that angle. It sits straight up and down. I’m going to go check mine and make sure about the adjustment, though. I’ll let you know for sure.
Just checked mine. I’m wondering if the 3 screws that connect the attaching arm to the grip can be loosened and the whole thing repositioned. Two of the screws are easy to get to. For the last one, though, you’d have to come at it on an angle. And I guarantee I’d strip the head if it were me, lol.
Here’s a link to the later grip:
www.ebay.com/itm/204486015442?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=9q4bplJLQyq&sssrc=2047675&ssuid=&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY
Love the video! Where would you recommend getting a Kowa Six? eBay?
Thanks for watching! I got mine many years ago from KEH.com (well, before there was a dot-com). As far as used gear goes, I trust them the most. That being said, almost every old camera I have besides the Kowa, came from eBay. And most of those were from Japanese sellers who were very upfront and honest about the condition of the gear. Wherever you decide to purchase, though, be sure that it's STATED to be in "complete working order" or other words to such end. If it isn't, eBay can help with a return/refund if there is any problem from the seller. I have not experienced any nightmare transactions, but they do exist - as I read about them on other forums.
With the Kowa, the biggest issue to steer clear of is a jammed winding mechanism. That was the weak spot in these cameras from the very beginning. And parts would be difficult to come by these days, even if you sent it in for repair. Lens repairs (sticky shutters, etc) can easily be repaired by any reputable repair shop that's been around long enough to understand how manual leaf shutters operate.
These are great cameras if they're well-cared for.
@@vintagecameradigest thank you for the fast reply . I will be slowly looking out for this camera .
I would take this camera any day over a HB
Well, I used to own a Hassy 500C at the same time owning this Kowa. I only had the 80mm for the Hassy, but I had the 150 for the Kowa (plus others). So, any time I needed a tighter portrait lens in the studio I reached for the Kowa. I never felt I was losing anything by doing so. I was completely satisfied with the optics and performance.
What is the tool that you’re using to figure out the correct settings for the shot?
Thanks for the question! For this shoot I was using an old Minolta Auto Meter III handheld light meter. I also use a Minolta Spotmeter F on some of the other episodes when using a camera with no built-in meter.
Excellent review. Thank you. It’s definitely Kowa, though, not Kawa.
Thanks so much! I think I’ll just start calling it the “Six” and avoid all the rest 😁
I only got my Hasselblad 503cx, with 80mm lens, a month ago. I also bought a second film back, as well as the 50mm f/4.
I am waiting for my delivery of film stock.
Those silver lenses look soooo damn nice. Wish I could get the same finishes on my Carl Zeiss Hasselblad lenses.
You have a very nice machine there with that Hassy! I had a 500C once that did accept all those old silver Zeiss lenses. They’re definitely eye-catching!
@@vintagecameradigest thank you kind Sir.
Indeed the older lenses are arresting, but I did want the ones with the T* coating, so I opted for the later CF lenses, and got 2, in black.
As I use them more and more, I think they will "grow on me;" I do really prefer the silver ones however.
@@---us7qf yes I expect they will. I predict you’ll be blown away by the image quality and you’ll be quite content with those black lenses. Even though my old 500C could accept the silver lenses, I did opt for the T* black versions when I had the choice.
@@JStevenBroome and on that note Steven, I can hardly wait for my film order to arrive.
I am just itching with excitement. Like a child at Christmas.
I love that feeling! Be sure to check in and let us know the results.
Thanks.Very clear. I don't understand what the name has to do with a cow. I know the brand as Co-Wah.
Ah! I must be using the southern Japanese pronunciation then…
You know, now that I think about it, I don’t think I’ve heard many people pronounce the name at all. I read it a lot, but don’t hear it. So thanks for the correction!
Nothing to do with a vow. It’s Kowa, not Kawa.
@@JStevenBroome If you have spent time in Kyushu you will know that’s not true. Kowa is not Kawa in any Japanese accent I know.
Kowa sure made good cameras & lenses. The 6 is the best of them, but I think some of their camera parts were kind of delicate. Find a good, clean working Kowa 6? Yay!
A CLR is needed for any of them because dry glue can give the winding mechanism too much stress and push your Kowa over the Kodachrome bridge. Don't take that chance.
Yes, the winding mechanism is this camera’s Achilles’ Heel. Always turn the winding knob without the using the crank. Slows you down and puts less stress on the gear. I’ve been lucky with this one - aside from having a lens CLA’d here and there.
A hint of your shadow thrown in the pics bicycle series
Good catch! I didn’t even notice before now 😬
Oh, I have Kowa Six with a 55mm and 150mm lens. The image quality from the camera is phenomenal. Unfortunately I have heard about the common jamming issue. I haven’t experienced it, but it’s a shame that it exist.
Well, be sure to treat it gently, and it will continue to perform flawlessly for you!
I have one, and I like it, BUT beware. The film transport is prone to jams. The weakness is a brass cog that wears out. Spares are hard to find, and repairs may be uneconomical.
Exactly. Don’t over-stress the winding. It’s a known issue. I guess there were reasons for using brass gearing in some of these older cameras, but they are too easy to deform. I recently repaired a Canonflex that was having transport/wind issues. Guess what the culprit was - a brass cog. It just amazes me how brass was used in a system that’s under almost constant stress.
Yeah I have one of these stashed in a box somewhere from around 2010 that I forced when it jammed without knowing better. It's a shame because it's a beautiful camera
I’ve heard of it.
In a positive or negative connotation? Its reputation seems to be equally divided. But if you have one in good working order, it’s great.
@@vintagecameradigest I was thinking about buying a medium-format camera a few years ago and didn’t want to shell out the bucks for even a used Hasselblad without knowing if I was going to stick with it. The Kowa was well thought of, as I recall, but I ended up sticking with digital and buying a mirrorless Nikon with a full-frame sensor. It may be purely psychological, but the bigger sensor makes a big difference to me.
Koh-uh, not Kow-uh.
Yes, I do see the error of my ways there