I use my Zeiss 6X9 120 folder camera for shooting panoramas. This gives me a 24mmx90mm negative on 35mm film. I had a viewfinder 3d printed. That "approximates" the scene. However the distance between the lens and the viewfinder on the cold-shoe means what is viewed is different than taken (a real problem closer in). Also, since it is 35mm in a 120mm camera, one has to adjust for what is actually in the frame vs on the film (as spocket area also gets exposed). However, that format does allow some shots that would not be as good in a square format or even my 6x7/6x8.
Hi Steve. I've been lucky to have the Xpan with 45 and 90 lenses for the last 20 years. Some tips: the (centre weighted) light meter tends to underexpose in my experience, vignetting can be removed easily in lightroom (much less apparent with the 90 mm), don't use a polarizer with the 45 mm (very uneven effect in skies), both lenses very sharp. I scan with a Nikon Coolscan in 2 halves and stitch together. You can also flick the switch and shoot in "normal" 35mm format. Composition wise - I find lots of verticals in landscape format i.e. trees, don't work (for me), much better to shoot open landscapes e.g. Yorkshire Dales. I probably use the 45 mm lens >90 % of the time (not sure why). Happy shooting and thanks for the video.
Thanks for the tips John, I’d noticed the slight under exposure despite my generous bias for the darker foreground. I’m hoping to get good use from the 90mm as I prefer longer focal lengths, only time will tell. I also dislike polarisers on wideangles unless only partially applied.
I've been using a Shen Hao 6x17 panoramic camera for the past several years and really enjoy it. Uses 120 film, and the only downside is you're limited to 4 images per roll so there's no time for "spraying and praying" so to speak. Its a very deliberate process, and you do have the ability to take advantage of camera movements. I really like this format.
I have a 3D-printed 6x17. Viewfinder is mostly useless, which is unfortunate, but the images are lovely. I don’t have access to a 5x7 enlarger, so I’m limited to a hybrid workflow.
Inexpensive 3D printed 6x17 cameras are available these days on etsy for a fraction of what professional 6x17 cameras cost. Perhaps thats an option for some viewers to consider as an alternative to the XPan.
I’ve tried a 3D printed 6x17 and really didn’t like it. Whilst they can produce very impressive images the one I had was full of issues like light leaks, poor ergonomics and was completely overbalanced by the lens. I’m sure there better ones out there and I’m hoping one day somebody will manufacture one out of a more suitable material with a bit of heft to it.
Hi Steve, I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate you and your content. You've been my favorite photographer on RUclips here for years, and I've learned so much from you; I even got a Bronica, and pronounce it the way you do LOL. I've always found your style of content here totally unique compared to the others I see that take you along on shoots like this. Maybe its your wisdom or easy-going attitude, but I get both relaxed and inspired whenever I see your content. Thanks!
Ahh the x-pan. I had one that I took to New Zealand and France with me using Velvia 50. Stupidly sold it about ten years ago for AU$1000, including the centre filter 🤯!!! I can’t afford to buy another one so these days I have cut some dark slides in half to give me either 2x5 or 4x10. An 8x20 camera is my dream but who can afford that size film anymore :). Looking forward to seeing some amazing images from your new toy Steve. Take care.
You've got a good eye, even if you're shooting in a new format. It's very much in your style, and it very much has that feel, even if it hasn't been perfected yet.
Oh wow an Xpan! Here I thought you'd have gone for a cheaper option like the Chroma CupePan or some other 3d printed camera, but you went the whole way. You deserve it! I hope it lasts you a long time and brings you much joy!!! Also if you ever get the chance, I do think the panorama back for the Bronica is pretty fun. That way you can get a bit more variety with your lenses (e.g.a 150/200/250 etc) though it is not as pano as an xpan ofc.
Talk about going to extremes, from square to pano! Lovely color in these shots... You can make more money. You can't create images you have already missed. At least that's what I tell myself.
I have two copies of the filter if you want it you can have it my daughter lives in London and I live in the United State’s so I know the mailing system
I love the panoramic format, have been looking at a 6*17 camera but price-wize they are in the same ballpark as the xpan and the film goes trough even faster 😕 I liked your shots a lot although I would make them a tad darker, every one of them. Making your image darker enhances the light.
Thakns for sharing your experience in this panoramic-6x9-likeish Format! I did learn something. The square Format is actually very challenging in respect of Composition. Hope you enjoied your Coffee afterwards :-)
Love the Hassleblad XPan and I can't wait 'till you've mastered the new larger format and shown us what you can create! Your pictures here are, unsurprisingly, still very good, although I hear what you say about getting better at it.
Steve, you’ve hit your stride with this aspect ratio, very nice images to start, can’t wait till you get even more comfortable with it. I use digital gfx50sll mostly for the 24x65 aspect ratio love it. Hate to say it but probably a more inexpensive kit than the hassy and 2 lenses, hope your recovery from your kidney operation goes well🤣🤣🤣
I have looked at the GFX and would consider it in future, especially as the XPan lenses can be adapted to it. You’re right about cost, it works out more expensive than the big Fuji.
I totally agree with you about bland, dead skies. I loved the format and those images were beautiful. So was that the one dry day we have had all year that you managed to capture these photos. November was the last time I was out with my camera as sadly I work full time and the only day this year it hasn't chucked it down with rain I was of course at work. I always find it odd when I sell film in the lab and customers say, "God that's cheap £11.00 for a Kodak Gold 36 exp". I used to buy mine in bulk from Jersey no VAT at £1 a pop. How times have changed. Film sales are sky rocketing still and it seems there is no let up in film shooters desperate to shoot film. I bet you had a moment there when you actually paid for the camera and thought, 'what the hell have I done', and then vindicated yourself with all the reasons why you needed it in the first place. You only live once as they say. I always have that L'Oreal TV advert, 'Because you're worth it' moment when I buy new gear😂😂. Good on you Steve.
I also remember buying film from 7dayshop for ridiculous prices. I was looking back through my diary last week and during 2010 Neopan 400 was £1.99 a roll in 120 with Delta 400 at £2.89. I sold 50 rolls of Tmax 400 for £60 and even offloaded my last 20 rolls of Efke Aura 820 in 120 for just £50. How I wish I’d known where we’d be now, I would have bought a new freezer and stocked up for life. The weather has been shocking lately and I’ve very little enthusiasm to go out and get wet. The cameras are getting a little bit worked that they’re surplus to requirements 🙂
Congratulations. Great camera, I’ve been shooting an Xpan ii /90,45,30 for about 10 years, just remember to take spare batteries, they can drain pretty quickly and on the odd occasions I’ve had it rewind the film after fitting new ones (I always carry a film picker so I can reload, cover lens and shoot exposed frames + 1) Keep sand away from that shuttle release (didn’t do it much good) And remember not every image needs to be taken in panoramic mode (sounds strange but I still forget where framing something isn’t working)
Thanks for tips Adrian, I wish the camera had a manual wind on to be honest as I hate models that auto-rewind. I’ve got my Kaiser film retriever handy and will make sure it’s with me, don’t want to end up with multiple rolls half shot.
Great video Steve, I was looking at the 617 cameras then remembered I only print on A4 (!) as I prefer small intimate prints. I do shoot panos but use my 6x6 camera, beauty of square you can have a pano, landscape, portrait and square from one frame. I use the viewfinder app to compose just select the 617 and any lens, use it for all camera formats too.
Nice video of this beautiful use of this gem of a camera. I had an XPan with the 45 and 90mm lenses that I bought back in the 1990s. I also had a Noblex 135U to tinker with. They fell into disuse in the late 90s when I shut down my darkroom and lost the capacity to print the images. I was mostly a portrait photographer at that time and panos just left my realm of interest. I sold them both about 15 years ago, and still kick myself for the XPan loss. Now that I’m retired, and looking to go back to more landscapes, it would be fun to have. My biggest issue would be developing and scanning the images since I live in an area where photo labs are all a distant trip. I really expect to do panos with my Nikon digitals from here on as I find no compelling reason to shoot film any longer (my choice, not a judgement). In fact, I’m about to sell off most of my other treasured film cameras as I know they’ll probably never be taken out into the wild ever again. And that will also be with regret, I’m sure. I’m subscribing to your account so I can watch with envy, and a little regret. LOL
I know the feeling when you’ve sold off something (usually cheap) only to regret it later. That said, if you’re not really using something then it’s a good idea to move it on and use the money for something else. I would struggle with film if I couldn’t develop and scan it myself, I’ve got a pretty good workflow now and can make darkroom prints too if necessary.
@@SteveONions I’ve looked into a good film scanner and printer, but have decided against it several times. I also just sold off most of my older Nikons (F3,F4,F100,Fm2) but have kept my older F2, S2, and Hasselblad because I just can’t part with them for pure emotional reasons. My Nikon Z system is giving me everything I really need now, and I even dropped my entire Fuji system to simplify my choices. Retirement and being 72 is having its effects, but maybe in a good way. Thanks for the reply, and I look forward to your posts in the future.
Hi Steve, I have dreamed of an X-Pan but never realised that dream. I love the panoramic aspect ratio and get it in 3 ways without the x-Pan. I have (as we all have) done stitched panoramas (even with film scans from my Bronica SQ-Ai), digitally I can see the aspect ratio in my Fuji GFX 50S (65x24) and shoot panoramas that way and finally I have made a blanking screen for my Bronica and can frame my shots on film that way for single frame panoramas. My itch for panoramas has been scratched in these ways, that said if a Fuji 6x17 came up at the right price......................
I also have a blanking plate for the Bronica and it’s a good alternative. I looked at the GFX 50R as it’ll also take the Xpan lenses and some of my Nikkors have a big enough image circle too.
Hey Steve congrats on that X-Pan, lovely camera, I was one bollocking away from dropping 4 thousand quid on a X-Pan II with full lenses...but I listened to the outter voice and backed away....stupidly! Nice shots mate enjoy that bucket list camera absolutely green with envy.
I’ve wanted one for 20 years Paul and even if I move it on at some point at least I’ll have scratched that itch. For the money it doesn’t really make sense but if I didn’t get one now I think the boat would have sailed.
You hit it on the nail with this one. An absolute dream of a camera. The images were lovely and wholly deserving of a place on a wall or a mantelpiece. You may need a lot of walls by the time you’re done. The vertical panorama shot was creative and worked brilliantly. I fear the Bronica may sit it out for a while longer. I’ve been putting Xpan off for a few years now. Perhaps its about time . But I haven’t come out with a good excuse for the missus though.
I wanted something quite different from the Bronica although I did consider the Mamiya 7 which was similarly expensive. There are some locations that I can’t get to grips with using 1:1 or even 3:2 and I hoping it’ll open up new opportunities with familiar places.
A Mamiya 7ii with a 45mm lens and a 35mm film adapter shoots the same 65x24 format at marginally less money. It is a little bit heavier than the XPan but with no vignette. And you can get a polarizing filter that allows you to adjust it through the viewfinder before moving it into position in front of the lens.
It was a toss up between the Mamiya and the XPan. What swung it for me was being forced to shoot in the panoramic mode and the extra shots per roll (not that saving a few £££ will make much difference compared to the purchase price!).
My Sigma sd Quattro offers a built in 21x9 aspect ratio and, from the moment I activated it, I was in love. Yes it took a while to adjust to the new composition challenges, but its ability to edit a scene horizontally soon became addictive. This is never more true than when I’m down on the Oregon coast. A whole new world of composition opens up.
Stunning pictures Steve, especially the one that I shot directly into the sun! And congrats to this wonderful camera. My personal (affordable) xpan alternative is the Ligero69, a 3d printed camera for Mamiya Press lenses and backs. I mainly use it with the 6x9 back and the Mamiya 50mm f6.3, which is a Biogon clone and a really terrific lens. For take up I use a 120 spool with some backing paper as leader and tape the 35mm film on it. I use a 35mm roll with 120 adapters and set the back for 220 film. With this setting the film transport works nicely and the frames are evenly spaced. The back keeps the film nicely flat, so no need for a mask. Used at hyperfocal distance, everything between 3 meters and infinity is in focus, which makes this camera almost a point and shoot. Love it! I also have a Russian FT-2 for panoramas but haven't really got used to the swing lens.
@@SteveONions I will keep my fingers crossed that the xpan won't die! Totally agree on the quality of the Mamiya Press lenses. I have four of them: the said 50mm, the 75mm f5.6, which is an Angulon type, the 100mm f3.5 (silver collapsible version, Tessar type) and the 150mm. I haven't used the 150mm yet but the other 3 are terrific. I also use these lenses on a hacked instax wide 300.
Congrats on the x-pan, beware of the slippery slope, You’ll end up with a few 6x17 cameras after… anamorphic shots on 35mm cameras, widelux hunts, panoramic backs on 4x5 cameras, GFX 100’s with the X-pan framing, etc. looking forward for your panoramic content
Great video Steve. I love the shot of the trees in the bright light towards the end. The film you were using also looked interesting and suited the subject well. If I know you have the XPan with you when we are out, I'll bring along the 30mm lens for you to try.
It’s funny how a shot with 4-5 trees looks so-so, but if you can get 30 or 40 uniform-looking trees into a shot, you make something that is still just “a photo of trees” turn into something quite eye-catching. I think the photo of the split in the path would have worked well. I’ve tried panos digitally but it’s rarely worked for me. Definitely stuff to learn from your compositions here, Steve. Thanks for sharing.
I know what you mean, the sweep of trees looks a lot more impressive when you exclude the top and bottom, quite a departure from my usual square format.
Congratulations on your new camera, Steve. I’m the opposite in that I can only see the world in panoramas, and struggle horribly with square formats. 250D is my favorite color film too so I’m glad to see you got good results with it. Thanks!
It’s quite a departure from 1:1 Casey which is one of the reasons I wanted the camera. I have a range of subjects that simply don’t work for me in square, coastal scenes being foremost among them.
Do you have a couple of big lads with you when you take the X Pan out Steve😆 I have been doing more Pano's since I started to make my own frames. Mainly 6x12 on the 5x4, and really enjoying the whole process. Do like the portrait of the Beeches @9.49 Great vlog Steve Cheers Diz
I’m reluctant to take it anywhere if it means risking damage and this will limit me somewhat Diz. I thought about carrying up a mountain this week but that’s a lot of banging around for up to 10 hours so the usual cheap 35mm Nikon has won out again!
I always wanted bronica with the 135W film back. That way I could do both square and panorama on same camera. Sucks thought that the 135W back is like three times as expensive the camera itself.
I’ve been considering a 4x5 camera with a 6x12 back, but the back costs more than the camera, and I worked it out that I’d have to shoot several hundred frames before it would be cheaper than just cropping 4x5. But there are plentiful inexpensive 6x9 backs, so it’s a question of how wide is wide enough.
I love the pano format. I recently picked up a Chroma six:17 and modified a Bronica 135N film back to 135W for film shooting in these formats. I don’t know what it is about this format that speaks to me so much, but I love it. Congrats on your purchase.
Congrats on your X-Pan. You got some great photographs. I love the format, I use a Chroma Six:12 and also have a converted Holga Panoramic camera with a 90mm Angulon on the front.
Steve, you have a Hasselblad XPan!! A camera I would have loved to have had back in my early thirties but could never afford, as its price was “over the Moon”. The idea of using 35mm film as a medium format … is just brilliant. Personally, I love the 1x2.7 dimensions as I think it gives a better idea of how I see the world, in terms of perception. I use a Z7 (45MP) to get these kind of shots as there are plenty of MP in order to do the appropriate crop. Once again, your images are excellent, even though using a range finder camera. Personally, I would use a Sekonic meter with this camera; take a few spot meters and everything should be good. Cheers
Thanks Steve, that was delightful. I've long admired the XPAN from afar but that's as close as I'll ever get, what a lovely piece of kit. The colour and grain structure of that Kodak Vision film looks quite interesting, as much as you can tell from here anyway. Thanks for posting.
I do like the Horseman back and with a slight vertical crop it will match the XPan. What draws me to the XPan is the size and portability, I want to use it handheld as much as possible.
I do like the Horseman back and with a slight vertical crop it will match the XPan. What draws me to the XPan is the size and portability, I want to use it handheld as much as possible.
Wow I think you're being a bit modest. On the back of the last cinestill video I think you're in a real purple patch at the moment. Must be v exciting looking forward to other locations and film stocks. Great work 👌
I'm guessing you've never used a Widelux, Noblex, Horizon, or Seitz - They are all swing lens so they give you an interesting perspective. I love them and there 130 or 140 deg coverage. As usual your video is great, thanks.
6x12 is a good size and with a bit of a vertical crop it easily meets the 1:2.7 format. Not as easy to use though and I primarily intend to use the XPan handheld.
I did wonder why you as a dedicated Bronica user didn't opt for the panoramic 35mm back. Having said that, although they are silly money, they are still only ¼ the cost of the x-Pan. Also liking the Vision3 film. I've been using the 50D for a project and find that in the right circumstances, it is almost grainless with superb colours. Developing isn't too hard either.
I should have bought the 135W back 10 years ago when they were only silly money, not mad money like now. That said the Bronica doesn’t work well handheld and I don’t take it thinking but the XPan ticks both those boxes.
Kudos to you for being willing to embrace this learning curve. And considering the results from this outing, I'd say that you have a bright future with it. I'm really looking forward to seeing what you will do with it in some of your favorite locations.
I suspect our contemporary eyes have been trained to understand those wide aspect ratios as being "cinematic" without being consciously aware of it. There are benefits as well as challenges that come along with that conditioning. Still, it can be useful to not only emphasize what you find compelling about the scene, but also minimize distractions or problems, such as a particularly boring sky. In the images you included, I found that I was enjoying letting my eye wander about in the frame because there was so much more to consider. In addition to learning what subjects and scenes will work for you, I suspect you will also need to learn a new approach to composition.
I think you’re right Bob, despite the assumption that panoramics are always wide that’s only the case in relation to the truncated vertical view. I suspect a lot of my usage will concentrate on bringing the eye into a greatly simplified scene without unnecessary distractions.
Very interesting to see the possibilities of this format Steve. I often crop my digital shots to a wide format by losing bald skies and I've been known to do similar in the darkroom from MF negs. I certainly like the idea of using these cameras but no way will I ever afford one, so - is it worth the cost when compared to cropping a larger neg? Many thanks as usual.
I’ve tried all sorts of alternatives over the years involving cropping but never been totally satisfied, something about working with the native format seems to work for me. I have cropped 6x9 negs and get a good amount of detail, if the Xpan fails I see this as the best alternative, probably using a mask of some sort to impose the crop permanently.
I love the pano format and seeing you out with the xpan was eager to see your images. Totally get the exclusion thing. I don't shoot film but the Panasonic G9 & my S5 both have the 65:24 format as an option for jegs. OK you lose megapixels but that doesn't really bother me as the format itself I find very enjoyable, almost addictive. Some cracking images on your 1st outing - look forward to seeing you with this more. atb Al ps.. IG hates this format, get back to Flickr..lol
Oh dear😞. My bank account is getting nervous (again) this is making me tempted to get a 135W back for my SQi. A lot cheaper option than the Xpan (and a lot bulkier of course), but still pretty pricey for occasional use.
I really like the XPAN 1:2.7 format for my photography, but I don't want to buy such an expensive, albeit iconic, camera. That's why I prefer to simulate the panoramic results with my digital full-frame camera and the existing focal lengths. I already have an eye on the target format of 1:2.7 when composing the image, which works great after a little practice. I then do the cutting on the PC.
Great video, I'm a digital shooter, but I've bought 2 cheap 35mm film cameras a pentax and a fujica the fujica has a light meter but the Panasonic hasn't, I haven't bought any film as yet but it will be mainly colour landscapes, have you any tips fir a beginner and a decent film to buy. Thanks
My advice is to get out and shoot as much as possible and see how you get on. Film wise go with the cheapest 400 speed you can find in either B&W or colour, don’t worry about the differences in materials until you’ve got the hang of the camera.
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Don't downplay your shots - That one at the end of the light coming through the trees was beautiful.
Brilliant. And that one towards the end with the "flare threat", wow! Foresty, wiiiiide, glowey. Lovely!
Thank you 🙂
I use my Zeiss 6X9 120 folder camera for shooting panoramas. This gives me a 24mmx90mm negative on 35mm film. I had a viewfinder 3d printed. That "approximates" the scene. However the distance between the lens and the viewfinder on the cold-shoe means what is viewed is different than taken (a real problem closer in). Also, since it is 35mm in a 120mm camera, one has to adjust for what is actually in the frame vs on the film (as spocket area also gets exposed). However, that format does allow some shots that would not be as good in a square format or even my 6x7/6x8.
The “sprocketed image” is a bonus. I’ve got a Zeiss Icon Nettar and also a Kershaw 450 for “not so panorama”. 😎
I’ve used my own 6x9 to get some good panoramics Erich, an almost ideal cheaper option.
Hi Steve. I've been lucky to have the Xpan with 45 and 90 lenses for the last 20 years. Some tips: the (centre weighted) light meter tends to underexpose in my experience, vignetting can be removed easily in lightroom (much less apparent with the 90 mm), don't use a polarizer with the 45 mm (very uneven effect in skies), both lenses very sharp. I scan with a Nikon Coolscan in 2 halves and stitch together. You can also flick the switch and shoot in "normal" 35mm format. Composition wise - I find lots of verticals in landscape format i.e. trees, don't work (for me), much better to shoot open landscapes e.g. Yorkshire Dales. I probably use the 45 mm lens >90 % of the time (not sure why). Happy shooting and thanks for the video.
Thanks for the tips John, I’d noticed the slight under exposure despite my generous bias for the darker foreground. I’m hoping to get good use from the 90mm as I prefer longer focal lengths, only time will tell. I also dislike polarisers on wideangles unless only partially applied.
Steve: “Images aren’t great because of inexperience.”
Me: “Life is unfair.”
I've been using a Shen Hao 6x17 panoramic camera for the past several years and really enjoy it. Uses 120 film, and the only downside is you're limited to 4 images per roll so there's no time for "spraying and praying" so to speak. Its a very deliberate process, and you do have the ability to take advantage of camera movements. I really like this format.
I have a 3D-printed 6x17. Viewfinder is mostly useless, which is unfortunate, but the images are lovely.
I don’t have access to a 5x7 enlarger, so I’m limited to a hybrid workflow.
Lovely format.
When I see this, I have to unpack my shenHao 617 and take it with me. A great film format!
Don’t get me looking for a 617!
@@SteveONions You will not regret it… ;)
Inexpensive 3D printed 6x17 cameras are available these days on etsy for a fraction of what professional 6x17 cameras cost. Perhaps thats an option for some viewers to consider as an alternative to the XPan.
I’ve tried a 3D printed 6x17 and really didn’t like it. Whilst they can produce very impressive images the one I had was full of issues like light leaks, poor ergonomics and was completely overbalanced by the lens. I’m sure there better ones out there and I’m hoping one day somebody will manufacture one out of a more suitable material with a bit of heft to it.
Hi Steve, I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate you and your content. You've been my favorite photographer on RUclips here for years, and I've learned so much from you; I even got a Bronica, and pronounce it the way you do LOL.
I've always found your style of content here totally unique compared to the others I see that take you along on shoots like this. Maybe its your wisdom or easy-going attitude, but I get both relaxed and inspired whenever I see your content. Thanks!
Thank you, I’m glad you enjoy the videos as they are fun to make and give me something to look back on too 😊
Ahh the x-pan. I had one that I took to New Zealand and France with me using Velvia 50. Stupidly sold it about ten years ago for AU$1000, including the centre filter 🤯!!! I can’t afford to buy another one so these days I have cut some dark slides in half to give me either 2x5 or 4x10. An 8x20 camera is my dream but who can afford that size film anymore :). Looking forward to seeing some amazing images from your new toy Steve. Take care.
I’ve lost count of the number of cameras and accessories I’ve sold cheap and subsequently regretted 🙁
Seller’s remorse. I know it well :)
Just started shooting 6x17 which is quite a challenge coming from 6x6 so this video is interesting seeing you get to grips with pano shooting. Thanks!
Good luck with the 6x17, unmatched image quality.
You've got a good eye, even if you're shooting in a new format. It's very much in your style, and it very much has that feel, even if it hasn't been perfected yet.
Thank you 🙂
Now that's a nice camera to come to grips with! :-)
The vertical photo is stunning -- keep making videos of your Xpan experience.
Thanks, will do!
Oh wow an Xpan! Here I thought you'd have gone for a cheaper option like the Chroma CupePan or some other 3d printed camera, but you went the whole way. You deserve it! I hope it lasts you a long time and brings you much joy!!!
Also if you ever get the chance, I do think the panorama back for the Bronica is pretty fun. That way you can get a bit more variety with your lenses (e.g.a 150/200/250 etc) though it is not as pano as an xpan ofc.
I should have got one of the Bronica panoramic backs when they didn’t cost more than the camera 😲
Talk about going to extremes, from square to pano! Lovely color in these shots... You can make more money. You can't create images you have already missed. At least that's what I tell myself.
I really wanted the opposite of the Bronica Bryce, there are a lot of locations that really need the panoramic treatment.
I have two copies of the filter if you want it you can have it my daughter lives in London and I live in the United State’s so I know the mailing system
Wow, that’s very generous of you Steve, I’d absolutely love one of those filters if you have a spare 🙂
I love the panoramic format, have been looking at a 6*17 camera but price-wize they are in the same ballpark as the xpan and the film goes trough even faster 😕 I liked your shots a lot although I would make them a tad darker, every one of them. Making your image darker enhances the light.
Thakns for sharing your experience in this panoramic-6x9-likeish Format!
I did learn something. The square Format is actually very challenging in respect of Composition.
Hope you enjoied your Coffee afterwards :-)
I like the 1:1 format for a lot of my photography but there are some locations, particularly the coast where it just doesn’t feel right.
First congratulations on the new camera! May it work well.
Fingers crossed!
Congratulation to an epic camera! Kind regards from Sweden
Thank you 😊
You must have sold a kidney, enjoy the new Camera, lovely choice.
Thanks Mark 🙂
Love the Hassleblad XPan and I can't wait 'till you've mastered the new larger format and shown us what you can create! Your pictures here are, unsurprisingly, still very good, although I hear what you say about getting better at it.
Thank you, I definitely need more practice.
Steve, you’ve hit your stride with this aspect ratio, very nice images to start, can’t wait till you get even more comfortable with it. I use digital gfx50sll mostly for the 24x65 aspect ratio love it. Hate to say it but probably a more inexpensive kit than the hassy and 2 lenses, hope your recovery from your kidney operation goes well🤣🤣🤣
I have looked at the GFX and would consider it in future, especially as the XPan lenses can be adapted to it. You’re right about cost, it works out more expensive than the big Fuji.
Super images.
Many thanks
Just the one kidney now Steve, I’m sure it went to a good home. Looking forward to some great wide images if the samples here are just the start.
Thank you 🙂
I totally agree with you about bland, dead skies. I loved the format and those images were beautiful. So was that the one dry day we have had all year that you managed to capture these photos. November was the last time I was out with my camera as sadly I work full time and the only day this year it hasn't chucked it down with rain I was of course at work. I always find it odd when I sell film in the lab and customers say, "God that's cheap £11.00 for a Kodak Gold 36 exp". I used to buy mine in bulk from Jersey no VAT at £1 a pop. How times have changed. Film sales are sky rocketing still and it seems there is no let up in film shooters desperate to shoot film. I bet you had a moment there when you actually paid for the camera and thought, 'what the hell have I done', and then vindicated yourself with all the reasons why you needed it in the first place. You only live once as they say. I always have that L'Oreal TV advert, 'Because you're worth it' moment when I buy new gear😂😂. Good on you Steve.
I also remember buying film from 7dayshop for ridiculous prices. I was looking back through my diary last week and during 2010 Neopan 400 was £1.99 a roll in 120 with Delta 400 at £2.89. I sold 50 rolls of Tmax 400 for £60 and even offloaded my last 20 rolls of Efke Aura 820 in 120 for just £50. How I wish I’d known where we’d be now, I would have bought a new freezer and stocked up for life.
The weather has been shocking lately and I’ve very little enthusiasm to go out and get wet. The cameras are getting a little bit worked that they’re surplus to requirements 🙂
Congratulations. Great camera, I’ve been shooting an Xpan ii /90,45,30 for about 10 years, just remember to take spare batteries, they can drain pretty quickly and on the odd occasions I’ve had it rewind the film after fitting new ones (I always carry a film picker so I can reload, cover lens and shoot exposed frames + 1)
Keep sand away from that shuttle release (didn’t do it much good)
And remember not every image needs to be taken in panoramic mode (sounds strange but I still forget where framing something isn’t working)
Thanks for tips Adrian, I wish the camera had a manual wind on to be honest as I hate models that auto-rewind. I’ve got my Kaiser film retriever handy and will make sure it’s with me, don’t want to end up with multiple rolls half shot.
Love the XPan and some lovely images in this one. I think the 250D was perfect match for the panoramic style that morning.
Thank you.
Great video Steve, I was looking at the 617 cameras then remembered I only print on A4 (!) as I prefer small intimate prints. I do shoot panos but use my 6x6 camera, beauty of square you can have a pano, landscape, portrait and square from one frame. I use the viewfinder app to compose just select the 617 and any lens, use it for all camera formats too.
I’ve also got some good results with the 6x6 and use a small mask on the viewfinder so I can see the final result 👍
Nice video of this beautiful use of this gem of a camera. I had an XPan with the 45 and 90mm lenses that I bought back in the 1990s. I also had a Noblex 135U to tinker with. They fell into disuse in the late 90s when I shut down my darkroom and lost the capacity to print the images. I was mostly a portrait photographer at that time and panos just left my realm of interest.
I sold them both about 15 years ago, and still kick myself for the XPan loss. Now that I’m retired, and looking to go back to more landscapes, it would be fun to have. My biggest issue would be developing and scanning the images since I live in an area where photo labs are all a distant trip.
I really expect to do panos with my Nikon digitals from here on as I find no compelling reason to shoot film any longer (my choice, not a judgement). In fact, I’m about to sell off most of my other treasured film cameras as I know they’ll probably never be taken out into the wild ever again. And that will also be with regret, I’m sure.
I’m subscribing to your account so I can watch with envy, and a little regret. LOL
I know the feeling when you’ve sold off something (usually cheap) only to regret it later. That said, if you’re not really using something then it’s a good idea to move it on and use the money for something else.
I would struggle with film if I couldn’t develop and scan it myself, I’ve got a pretty good workflow now and can make darkroom prints too if necessary.
@@SteveONions I’ve looked into a good film scanner and printer, but have decided against it several times. I also just sold off most of my older Nikons (F3,F4,F100,Fm2) but have kept my older F2, S2, and Hasselblad because I just can’t part with them for pure emotional reasons. My Nikon Z system is giving me everything I really need now, and I even dropped my entire Fuji system to simplify my choices. Retirement and being 72 is having its effects, but maybe in a good way.
Thanks for the reply, and I look forward to your posts in the future.
You’re very welcome. I’m constantly telling myself to simplify the equipment and fully understand that I work better with a reduced toolset.
Hi Steve, I have dreamed of an X-Pan but never realised that dream. I love the panoramic aspect ratio and get it in 3 ways without the x-Pan. I have (as we all have) done stitched panoramas (even with film scans from my Bronica SQ-Ai), digitally I can see the aspect ratio in my Fuji GFX 50S (65x24) and shoot panoramas that way and finally I have made a blanking screen for my Bronica and can frame my shots on film that way for single frame panoramas. My itch for panoramas has been scratched in these ways, that said if a Fuji 6x17 came up at the right price......................
I also have a blanking plate for the Bronica and it’s a good alternative. I looked at the GFX 50R as it’ll also take the Xpan lenses and some of my Nikkors have a big enough image circle too.
New Year, New Toys!
Indeed 😊
I made a few tree trunk shots the other day. Fairly close though, almost like mini landscapes in themselves. Love the Hasselblad man 👍📸
It certainly shows the forest in a completely different way.
Hey Steve congrats on that X-Pan, lovely camera, I was one bollocking away from dropping 4 thousand quid on a X-Pan II with full lenses...but I listened to the outter voice and backed away....stupidly! Nice shots mate enjoy that bucket list camera absolutely green with envy.
I’ve wanted one for 20 years Paul and even if I move it on at some point at least I’ll have scratched that itch. For the money it doesn’t really make sense but if I didn’t get one now I think the boat would have sailed.
mate my philosophy is go for it you're a long time dead.....say's the fool who backed out of getting one......enjoy mate. @@SteveONions
You have the most calming videos. They are also so incredibly informative, looking forward to the next one!
Glad you like them Matthew.
You hit it on the nail with this one. An absolute dream of a camera. The images were lovely and wholly deserving of a place on a wall or a mantelpiece. You may need a lot of walls by the time you’re done. The vertical panorama shot was creative and worked brilliantly. I fear the Bronica may sit it out for a while longer. I’ve been putting Xpan off for a few years now. Perhaps its about time . But I haven’t come out with a good excuse for the missus though.
I wanted something quite different from the Bronica although I did consider the Mamiya 7 which was similarly expensive. There are some locations that I can’t get to grips with using 1:1 or even 3:2 and I hoping it’ll open up new opportunities with familiar places.
A Mamiya 7ii with a 45mm lens and a 35mm film adapter shoots the same 65x24 format at marginally less money. It is a little bit heavier than the XPan but with no vignette. And you can get a polarizing filter that allows you to adjust it through the viewfinder before moving it into position in front of the lens.
It was a toss up between the Mamiya and the XPan. What swung it for me was being forced to shoot in the panoramic mode and the extra shots per roll (not that saving a few £££ will make much difference compared to the purchase price!).
My Sigma sd Quattro offers a built in 21x9 aspect ratio and, from the moment I activated it, I was in love. Yes it took a while to adjust to the new composition challenges, but its ability to edit a scene horizontally soon became addictive. This is never more true than when I’m down on the Oregon coast. A whole new world of composition opens up.
Sigma really were ahead of their time, it’s a shame they didn’t catch on more with users.
But now you can buy these cameras used for crazy cheap prices and they still have serious photographic horsepower@@SteveONions
Jeeze mate, Hasselblad Xpan, a mortgage to buy, and what happens if film disappears?? Beautiful photos though, well done Steve 👍👍
Thanks John. I hope 35mm lasts for some years to come 👍
This was quite interesting, this format, and how you took advantage of it, Steve. I enjoyed the adventure and your experiences. Thank you.
Thanks James, I just need to work out the right subjects and get more experience holding it level and getting the metering right.
Stunning pictures Steve, especially the one that I shot directly into the sun! And congrats to this wonderful camera.
My personal (affordable) xpan alternative is the Ligero69, a 3d printed camera for Mamiya Press lenses and backs. I mainly use it with the 6x9 back and the Mamiya 50mm f6.3, which is a Biogon clone and a really terrific lens. For take up I use a 120 spool with some backing paper as leader and tape the 35mm film on it. I use a 35mm roll with 120 adapters and set the back for 220 film. With this setting the film transport works nicely and the frames are evenly spaced. The back keeps the film nicely flat, so no need for a mask. Used at hyperfocal distance, everything between 3 meters and infinity is in focus, which makes this camera almost a point and shoot. Love it! I also have a Russian FT-2 for panoramas but haven't really got used to the swing lens.
The Mamiya press lenses are very interesting and I’ve seen a few new cameras that will mount them. If the XPan dies I’ll probably go down this route.
@@SteveONions I will keep my fingers crossed that the xpan won't die! Totally agree on the quality of the Mamiya Press lenses. I have four of them: the said 50mm, the 75mm f5.6, which is an Angulon type, the 100mm f3.5 (silver collapsible version, Tessar type) and the 150mm. I haven't used the 150mm yet but the other 3 are terrific. I also use these lenses on a hacked instax wide 300.
Congrats on the x-pan, beware of the slippery slope, You’ll end up with a few 6x17 cameras after… anamorphic shots on 35mm cameras, widelux hunts, panoramic backs on 4x5 cameras, GFX 100’s with the X-pan framing, etc. looking forward for your panoramic content
I’m hoping it’ll stop me wanting other formats but it’s unlikely!
Impressive shots and I appreciate the deadpan humor. Regards from Argentina.
Thank you 🙂
Great video Steve. I love the shot of the trees in the bright light towards the end. The film you were using also looked interesting and suited the subject well. If I know you have the XPan with you when we are out, I'll bring along the 30mm lens for you to try.
Thanks Robin, I’ve always wanted one and just hope it gives me years of reliable service!
Great pictures, as always. I understand the charme of the format, but for this price I would have bought a linhof or fuji with 6x17 format... 🙂
I could certainly have gone for quite a few of the alternatives but the ability to work handhold and take it hiking just swung it for me.
It’s funny how a shot with 4-5 trees looks so-so, but if you can get 30 or 40 uniform-looking trees into a shot, you make something that is still just “a photo of trees” turn into something quite eye-catching. I think the photo of the split in the path would have worked well. I’ve tried panos digitally but it’s rarely worked for me. Definitely stuff to learn from your compositions here, Steve. Thanks for sharing.
I know what you mean, the sweep of trees looks a lot more impressive when you exclude the top and bottom, quite a departure from my usual square format.
Congratulations on your new camera, Steve. I’m the opposite in that I can only see the world in panoramas, and struggle horribly with square formats. 250D is my favorite color film too so I’m glad to see you got good results with it. Thanks!
It’s quite a departure from 1:1 Casey which is one of the reasons I wanted the camera. I have a range of subjects that simply don’t work for me in square, coastal scenes being foremost among them.
Always enjoy your videos Steve. The image at 9:00 has great colors.
Thanks Rob.
Nice! I picked up a PressPan in lieu of one of these. Jess Hobbs has a fantastic video on it! One day I’ll have an XPan!!
Do you have a couple of big lads with you when you take the X Pan out Steve😆 I have been doing more Pano's since I started to make my own frames. Mainly 6x12 on the 5x4, and really enjoying the whole process. Do like the portrait of the Beeches @9.49 Great vlog Steve
Cheers
Diz
I’m reluctant to take it anywhere if it means risking damage and this will limit me somewhat Diz. I thought about carrying up a mountain this week but that’s a lot of banging around for up to 10 hours so the usual cheap 35mm Nikon has won out again!
Great to see you take on the wonderful XPan, Steve. May it open many opportunities for you.
That's the plan!
I always wanted bronica with the 135W film back. That way I could do both square and panorama on same camera. Sucks thought that the 135W back is like three times as expensive the camera itself.
I should have picked up that back 10 years ago when they were still affordable, too costly now to justify and I’d rather just crop the 120 frame.
I’ve been considering a 4x5 camera with a 6x12 back, but the back costs more than the camera, and I worked it out that I’d have to shoot several hundred frames before it would be cheaper than just cropping 4x5. But there are plentiful inexpensive 6x9 backs, so it’s a question of how wide is wide enough.
I love the pano format. I recently picked up a Chroma six:17 and modified a Bronica 135N film back to 135W for film shooting in these formats. I don’t know what it is about this format that speaks to me so much, but I love it. Congrats on your purchase.
I was also considering the Chroma and if the XPan packs up I may go down that route.
Congrats on your X-Pan. You got some great photographs. I love the format, I use a Chroma Six:12 and also have a converted Holga Panoramic camera with a 90mm Angulon on the front.
I’ve looked at the Chroma and also converted a Holga Pinhole some years back with a 65mm Angulon.
Steve, you have a Hasselblad XPan!! A camera I would have loved to have had back in my early thirties but could never afford, as its price was “over the Moon”. The idea of using 35mm film as a medium format … is just brilliant. Personally, I love the 1x2.7 dimensions as I think it gives a better idea of how I see the world, in terms of perception. I use a Z7 (45MP) to get these kind of shots as there are plenty of MP in order to do the appropriate crop. Once again, your images are excellent, even though using a range finder camera. Personally, I would use a Sekonic meter with this camera; take a few spot meters and everything should be good. Cheers
Thanks Brian. I can see me using a handheld meter when the lighting is tricky as the inbuilt one is tricky to use.
looking forward to seeing how your journey develops with the Xpan Steve
Thanks Steven.
Best of Luck with X-Pan 🖖
First thing that came to mind was centre filter😂
Your next challenge will be hand holding XPan Level!😮
I did get a few wonky ones Stuart 🙂
West Yorkshire Cameras have a 90mm xpan lens for sale at the moment.
I got mine from there a few weeks ago 😊
Thanks Steve, that was delightful. I've long admired the XPAN from afar but that's as close as I'll ever get, what a lovely piece of kit. The colour and grain structure of that Kodak Vision film looks quite interesting, as much as you can tell from here anyway. Thanks for posting.
It’s been a long time coming and I hope the camera holds up well, can’t imagine having to get another body! 😲
I hope to see some more of this aspect ratio. Would be interested to see a compare between the Beautifil Xpan and a Horseman 6x12 back on a 4x5.
I do like the Horseman back and with a slight vertical crop it will match the XPan. What draws me to the XPan is the size and portability, I want to use it handheld as much as possible.
I do like the Horseman back and with a slight vertical crop it will match the XPan. What draws me to the XPan is the size and portability, I want to use it handheld as much as possible.
Love the xpan ratio...looking forward to your images with it... and sorry about the retirement 🙂
Thanks Randy.
Your wide angle compositions are quite elegant. Like thee boo sky look. Thanks for sharing.
You’re welcome.
Wow I think you're being a bit modest. On the back of the last cinestill video I think you're in a real purple patch at the moment. Must be v exciting looking forward to other locations and film stocks. Great work 👌
Despite enjoying the look of these films I’ve actually done a complete 180 turn, more in a future video 😲
I like that aspect ratio from the new camera and the video format Steve.
Thanks Dave.
Lovely stuff Steve- what a great pickup. Just googled prices for this - Oh my........probably wont be shooting panoramic any time soon lol
I get queasy every time I think of it 😲
I'm guessing you've never used a Widelux, Noblex, Horizon, or Seitz - They are all swing lens so they give you an interesting perspective. I love them and there 130 or 140 deg coverage. As usual your video is great, thanks.
I’ve not used any of those cameras James, so many options and so little time (and money!).
It’s a bit clumsy but I like the 6x12 roll film holder for my 4x5 camera. Every now and then, I turn it vertical. Thanks for the vid.
6x12 is a good size and with a bit of a vertical crop it easily meets the 1:2.7 format. Not as easy to use though and I primarily intend to use the XPan handheld.
@@SteveONions Makes sense. I struggle to justify that Xpan cost, but understand the qualities it brings to the craft. All the best to you.
I did wonder why you as a dedicated Bronica user didn't opt for the panoramic 35mm back. Having said that, although they are silly money, they are still only ¼ the cost of the x-Pan. Also liking the Vision3 film. I've been using the 50D for a project and find that in the right circumstances, it is almost grainless with superb colours. Developing isn't too hard either.
I should have bought the 135W back 10 years ago when they were only silly money, not mad money like now. That said the Bronica doesn’t work well handheld and I don’t take it thinking but the XPan ticks both those boxes.
Love the format and the pictures, well done and thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I think that thing would by dynamite at the estuary. I loved the one with the sun behind the two trees.
I’ve always wanted to do coastal work with a panoramic camera Dann, I think it’s where the format is best suited.
You are lucky to have got a x pan
Camera. It s difficult To fin d in
Good condition and it s not cheap
I enjoy very much your photos.
I’ve got my fingers crossed that I don’t get a camera failure, it may be impossible to repair 😲
Kudos to you for being willing to embrace this learning curve. And considering the results from this outing, I'd say that you have a bright future with it. I'm really looking forward to seeing what you will do with it in some of your favorite locations.
Thanks Bob, I’m now working out which subjects will suit it, don’t want squash everything into the letterbox format!
I suspect our contemporary eyes have been trained to understand those wide aspect ratios as being "cinematic" without being consciously aware of it. There are benefits as well as challenges that come along with that conditioning. Still, it can be useful to not only emphasize what you find compelling about the scene, but also minimize distractions or problems, such as a particularly boring sky. In the images you included, I found that I was enjoying letting my eye wander about in the frame because there was so much more to consider. In addition to learning what subjects and scenes will work for you, I suspect you will also need to learn a new approach to composition.
I think you’re right Bob, despite the assumption that panoramics are always wide that’s only the case in relation to the truncated vertical view. I suspect a lot of my usage will concentrate on bringing the eye into a greatly simplified scene without unnecessary distractions.
I think that approach of simplifying will serve you well as the uncommon ratio itself will add its own element that the viewer will be considering.
Inspiring as always!
Thanks so much!
Very interesting to see the possibilities of this format Steve. I often crop my digital shots to a wide format by losing bald skies and I've been known to do similar in the darkroom from MF negs. I certainly like the idea of using these cameras but no way will I ever afford one, so - is it worth the cost when compared to cropping a larger neg? Many thanks as usual.
I’ve tried all sorts of alternatives over the years involving cropping but never been totally satisfied, something about working with the native format seems to work for me. I have cropped 6x9 negs and get a good amount of detail, if the Xpan fails I see this as the best alternative, probably using a mask of some sort to impose the crop permanently.
really like the look you get from the kodak film might get a roll to try out myself have you ever used the sx70 on the shelf ?
The SX70 had a few film packs through it some years ago but I never really liked the images and the film quality itself was a bit hit and miss.
I love the pano format and seeing you out with the xpan was eager to see your images. Totally get the exclusion thing. I don't shoot film but the Panasonic G9 & my S5 both have the 65:24 format as an option for jegs. OK you lose megapixels but that doesn't really bother me as the format itself I find very enjoyable, almost addictive. Some cracking images on your 1st outing - look forward to seeing you with this more. atb Al ps.. IG hates this format, get back to Flickr..lol
I like that Panasonic support this format Alan, the Fuji GFX is also an option as it supports the XPan lenses too.
@@SteveONions GFX has the megapixels to allow big prints from the sensor too - sadly that is out of my price range
Getting below £2K now Alan 🤔
Still waiting for that Minolta 5400 video.
Don’t hold your breath 🤔
A much cheaper option would be a Bronica ETRS(i) with a 35mm W back, what do you think ?
If only those backs were cheaper! I should have bought the SQ version 10 years ago when they were affordable.
Oh dear😞. My bank account is getting nervous (again) this is making me tempted to get a 135W back for my SQi. A lot cheaper option than the Xpan (and a lot bulkier of course), but still pretty pricey for occasional use.
I wish I’d picked up the 135W a few years ago when they were reasonably priced, I wonder now if it isn’t just better to crop the 120 frame.
I really like the XPAN 1:2.7 format for my photography, but I don't want to buy such an expensive, albeit iconic, camera. That's why I prefer to simulate the panoramic results with my digital full-frame camera and the existing focal lengths. I already have an eye on the target format of 1:2.7 when composing the image, which works great after a little practice. I then do the cutting on the PC.
I do like the idea of using a digital camera too, the few models that natively support the format are very appealing.
I saw it in a store in Hongkong but doubt I will ever be able to afford it.
I’ve wanted one for over twenty years and decided if I didn’t get it now I never would 🙂
Great video, I'm a digital shooter, but I've bought 2 cheap 35mm film cameras a pentax and a fujica the fujica has a light meter but the Panasonic hasn't, I haven't bought any film as yet but it will be mainly colour landscapes, have you any tips fir a beginner and a decent film to buy. Thanks
My advice is to get out and shoot as much as possible and see how you get on. Film wise go with the cheapest 400 speed you can find in either B&W or colour, don’t worry about the differences in materials until you’ve got the hang of the camera.
@SteveONions thanks for the advice I just bought kodak colour 200
Is the video format chosen according to the theme of the video ?
Indeed ☺️
the hasselblad xpence. brilliant, wish i´d thought of it myself
Beware of Bull? lol