🟡 BEST Medium Format Camera? FUJI GF670
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- Опубликовано: 2 июл 2024
- 7yr Fujifilm GF670 Review (6x6 6x7 Film) (Voigtlander Bessa III) Medium Format + GF670 Photos
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Fuji GF670 review, aka Voigtlander Bessa III review. Both cameras are medium format rangefinder cameras made by Cosina in Japan. Despite being both a 6x6 film camera and 6x7 film camera when closed it is similar in size to a Leica M camera. This is called a Fuji medium format folding camera. The Fujifilm Gf670 professional to my eyes gives me the sharpest photos of all the medium format cameras I've used. I discuss the the GF670 Fuji cameras is not the best at all applications and cover 5 GF670 alternative cameras; Mamiya 7, Mamiya 6, Mamiya RZ67 Pro II, Hasselblad 501c /500cm (or similar) Plaubel Makina 67 + the Pentax 67 that I always forget. Video includes Fuji GF670 photography, GF670 film loading, current price and any other info I thought could be useful. I even share GF670 35mm photos using a cheap 35mm to 120 film adapter (3D printed, on eBay).
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What a great video! You keep it interesting with all the sample pics and curiosities for such a long video; and, you compress so much information in, it's coming out of my ears! Awesome work! Thank you!
Thank you! Ha yes I try to pack lots of info into videos!
I'm very grateful for you sharing your knowledge, experience and photos Matt.
Very inspiring thank you.
Thank you! You can see photos full res on the MrLeica.com blog.
Amazing pics thanks again for this inspiring video
Thank you Martin! Certainly not my best work (the portraits) as many date back to 2014-2015 but I do love the bridge shot with the people in the foreground :)
Just recently discovered your channel and I enjoy your content very much. For me the best medium format camera is the one in your hands and the one you can afford to buy. In the 1970's when I was a student I purchased a Mamiya C33 twin lens reflex for sixty five dollars with a 65mm lens. I have used it ever since. Since then I have added a C330, a C220, and several Mamiya lenses for the cameras. I also have a Bronica ETRS, a Minolta 35mm, and a old beat up Leica with several lenses. I also enjoy shooting 4x5. I have gotten each at a good price and enjoy shooting with each camera for its particular strengths whether it is it portability, the size of the negative, or the advantage it brings to shooting a certain type of subject. For me the price dictated what camera I got and I learned to use the camera to the best of my abilities. I think that modern photographers have forgotten that creativity does not come from what camera you own, but your knowledge about photography and how you apply it. with no schools or other places to teach the craft of photography today. Its like the blind leading the blind.
Thanks Chiva! ..and well said! i wasn't born with a Leica so I worked my way through the different brands once I was earning enough extra money to pay for them. See my recent save £1000 video and that helps explain why I have some cameras. Totally agree though, I love bargain cameras too and sometimes the simple cheap ones can be more fun somehow. Agree it's how you use it! :) I did a video on 4x5, a Minolta, lots of Leica..Mamiya but not the models you have.
great video...nice work!
Thank you!
I’ve always wanted that camera, but it was extremely expensive, and now it’s even more expensive!
Hi Pablo, yes it seem all the 'desirable' cameras have shot up in price as demands is just so high, sadly.
I have wanted one of these for a long time.
Thanks John, yes it seems to be one camera many people know of!
Nice one Matt!
Thanks!
I always enjoy your presentations. And you must have an immense selection of cameras and lenses. Choosing a setup must be difficult.
Thanks Zoltan, yes I have collected quite a few over the years to use so yes packing is now very difficult ha.
Thanks for the comprehensive review!! I bought one in Mar-21 and the images are absolutely stunning. On my copy when I open the lens, I find that about 1/4 of the time meter either does not turn on at all, or all of the LEDs blink simultaneously. Anyone else have this problem? It seems to help if I keep a fresh battery in the camera. I worry that the internal flexible ribbon cables in this camera are already failing. Ugh. I love the camera so much I do not want it to fail! Fully agree about the shutter being TOO quiet. Not only does it make no sound, but the shutter button travel is so smooth and soft that it provides no tactile feedback whatsoever upon the shutter firing. Love all your model photos Matt!! Thanks again.
Thanks Bill! Congrats on your 'recent' purchase and sorry to hear the issues. I've not seen that problem no but hopefully anyone else reading might reply. I try to include model shots in all the videos regardless of the title, even the one posted yesterday for example! :)
I recently picked up a boxed Fuji GW670iii (Texas Leica). These have the shutter count display on the bottom of the body. It had six rolls of film through it. Literally the counter was at 006, and then you multiply the counter by 10x. It's glorious, but I do prefer wider lenses. That GF670 of yours is beautiful.
Thanks Scott and congrats on yours too! Love that your camera has a counter. So cool! (There is a wide version of this camera but even more expensive and hard to get)(I wish i'd mentioned it in the video).
Yesss it's a fantastic camera! I have one of this excellent cameras and I'm absolute agree with you. I review that camera in my youtube with similar words (but I'm sorry in italian language). Thank you for this review and to show the differences with Mamiya (that I never used).
Thanks Domenico, I'm happy we can agree on this and no problem!
This is my bucket travel
Medium format camera
Thanks Sheree! Great!
Blooming brilliant. I think you answered my question. I want a Mamiya 6 for out about walk around. Palace Peir & the seaside .
I just got a RB67 Pro S for another project. But if carrying a 500c/m is a brick, the RB is a builder block.
Ha thanks! Yes the Mamiya 6 is great.. you can probably buy mine if you are in the UK and have the funds (Comes with the 3 lenses*) Yes I have the RZ so I know the brick issues haha :)
Just bought one of these in Japan after keeping an eye out for 6 months. Actually mint, £1800.
Wow great find!! Enjoy
Ha! We discussed this before, I think, several times. I'm glad to see you finally got round to it. Not really sure why I needed to watch it all the way through when I've been using this camera for several years, though. :-P (One day I might even have some scans up to show you on my Flickr.)
Thanks Kelvin! Yes I got there eventually :)
Love my Fuji6x9
Nice Stuart!
Me too
I love this camera and I love this large format. I m using an Old Mamya 6 and my Bessa I and II. But I do not have 6*7 just 6*6, 6*9 and 6*4.5 on Bessa I with the reduction.
But this Bessa III is modern and look great with a top lens... Very difficult to find and very expensive ...
Great video and great test thanks for sharing
Thanks Jerome! You have some great cameras already :) I will share a cheaper version in a future video ;)
Thanks for another great review Matt. I’ve really grown to love what you do especially as your photographs marvellous. I bought this camera when it came out but I don’t use it nearly enough. You’ve inspired me to correct that travesty.
Anyway just wanted to tell you I’m a fan.
-Seal (as in the recording artist known as)
✌🏾&💜
Thanks Seal! (As in THE artist or just the same name?) 😅 Yes the GF670 is an amazing camera. You’ll wish you use it more when you get the film scans/ prints back. Thanks for your kind words.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Haha, the actual artist. I’ve been a photography enthusiast for a while now, I do a lot of work with Leica but use all types of cameras. I first watched your vlogs about a year ago then finally subscribed recently. I love your approach, it’s really refreshing and your photography is beautiful. Would love to keep in touch but I’m not sure if there’s a DM feature on RUclips.
@@seal-nowweretalking6753 Wow thanks! I knew you shot Leica. I’d be happy to keep in contact by whatever platform works best for you. Yes RUclips isn’t ideal for that. Perhaps Instagram? @MrLeicaCom - if ever you need help with anything Leica or other cameras I use do not hesitate to get in touch. Have a great day!
This is gold
@@leonardomar86 thanks Leo!
Interesting comparisons Matt. For me - I'll stick to my Rollei 3.5F for 6x6 and my RB67 Pro SD for 6x7.
Thanks Ray, nice cameras too!
16:25 Ever since I learned that this amazing portrait was taken with the GF670, I was hoping for a video on this camera. Thank you!
Sorry it took so long Lugen and thanks!
Hi Matt great video as always. Have had one of these on the radar for some time, but lockdown came along and spoiled things. I picked up a cheap Mamiya Universal with a couple of lenses and a 6x7 & 6x9 back as a stop gap. So far its proving its worth and the lenses are very sharpe IMHO. Its a bit bulkier than the GF but not a heavyweight beast like my RZ set up, and its dead silent too boot as well.
Thanks Anthony! Ah nice yes I hear they are great cameras but I’ve not used one myself.
I use multiple roll backs on my 4x5 for fun.
The RZ67 is also available in a Pro IId version which takes a digital back for interchangeability with 6x7 film backs
Thanks David, I have the standard Pro II bodies.
Thanks for the awesome content! Picked up one of these pre lockdown in Sydney... only put 1 roll through. Can't wait for the lockdown to end so can get on shooting with this!
Have you tried the GF670w version?!
Thanks Nalla! Great! No I’ve not but I’d like to!
Great camera !
If I did not already have the Fuji GW670 III rangefinder with fixed 90mm f/3.5 lens, I would consider the Fuji GF670 folder with fixed 80mm f/3.5 lens.
Thanks and nice! Great camera you have too!
Great review Matt, I am really looking for a small travel medium format camera. I'm still torn between the Mamiya 6 since it offers a range of lenses. This Fuji GF670 is really impressive, you took some great shots in San Fransisco!
Have you seen the GF670W, it has a 55mm lens.
Thanks Anthony! Yes the Mamiya 6 is my choice of these two as gives wide and short tele options. It’s tougher too I think. I know of the W but I’ve never used.
Awwwww, I reeeally want one of those! As usual😂
Ha thanks, yes it is worth putting on your Christmas list! :)
Y'r right，the best
Great images but a bit souless!
My dream film camera at the moment 😢
Nice choice! Results are great but it's not the most fun camera to operate.
I love this camer... i'm lucky I both it just when it came out so I didn't payed the price that you can find today on the market.
Thanks Antonino! Me too, yes I bought mine before the price jump too luckily. Enjoy it! :)
The video where Matt finally found the GF670 ;P
Haha, yes it took a while to get to this video Jolie. Great images but not very exciting to use!
These camera manufacturers need to manufacture these again. Are they not seeing the used camera market? We want them!!!!
Totally agree! I will speak to my Cosina contact again for what it is worth.
Hey Matt, I keep watching your GF670 review. It's extremely good. I keep getting more information with each and every session I watch. My question is on our work flow. Do you shoot transparency or negative film? Do you develop your own film? I don't own this camera yet. But I will be using it for travel and at home. Strictly for the love of it. I owned a Nikonos for yrs. Film and rangefinder photography are a skill set I respect.
Thx, Eric
Hi Eric, I used to develop all except E6. I shot all sorts of film. If you like Nikon and RF see all those film videos
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
Thank you Matt, I suspect you don't roll your own film? Film scratches while rolling 35mm bulk film stopped me. Any comment if 220 film will return? My hope is with Fuji. Shooting with your GF670 are threaded eyepiece diopters important? Same question for lens shade? I'm on the cusp of pulling the trigger. Thank you again! Eric
This thing is simply delicious. I wonder if the resurgence in film could prompt Fuji to build another generation?
Alas I will not sign up for one. It's the price tag. As a landscape photographer I would dread being caught with this beauty in a storm in the Levka Ori of Crete or the Kackar mountains of Eastern Turkey. This happens. My faithful Zeiss folder will dry out once the sun comes out. I'm not sure that the Fuji, or the cousins that you mention, would recover as easily.
Thanks Jeremy! I think it might not offer a wide enough view for landscape for me but the folding design is great to slip in a bag. Yes I wouldn't want to leave it in the rain!
Amazing camera! Too bad they discontinued it. Thanks Matt.
Thanks Lucy agreed! If Voigtlander (Cosina) released a film camera as good as their current M lenses it would be a best seller no question.
Lol. That face you make. It's like a kid in a candy store. Thanks again for another great review!
Haha thanks Pete, that show my true level of materity. Never grow up!
Bellows. How quaint.
I will stick with my 1957 Yashica Mat with a 75mm 3.5 Lumaxar lens which has beautiful colour rendition and a vintage look with black and white.
I also have a Rolleinar 1 for close ups. I prefer waistlevel viewing for composition, and 6x6 format.
For colour slide, I meter with my Yashica fxd quartz 35mm slr.
Both cameras cost me £160. Bought last year.
I have just bought a miniature 8.1 megapixel GR digital camera now which is giving me great fun especially with high iso black and white.
I have a card reader which links to my Huawei p10 plus where I can edit the pictures and share them on WhatsApp and Instagram.
The camera was £145,and the Hama reader was £20. In my pocket always.
Good to hear from your Neil! Nice setup, yes I have a Rolleinar set, they are really good on a TLR. TLR offer great prices too. I need to use mine more. Cool re. the 8MP camera too!
As always, thanks for the great review! How's the grip on the right side? Is there enough space to hold the camera firmly to compose and shoot, granted that the cover opens up on that side... I've got regular-sized hands.
Thanks! Yes it will be fine to hold. Non-slip rubber cover
Fuji Film Cameras are great
Yes these older film cameras had great lenses
Regarding the Fuji GF670 I really liked your video presentation. At the same time, I should note that I was less attached to the quality of the camera's finish (when it comes to the rigidity of the camera structure). Which in my opinion, does not come close to the historic BESA II, which it is trying to recreate.
By the way, strange to me, for not mentioning the Texas Leica.
Thanks Jeri! Yes it is based on the Bessa II I think but i'm sure like with all cameras old ones are made better. same goes for Leica too. Sorry to miss the Texas Leica. Sometimes if I've not used a camera myself I overlook them.
I sold this to get a Mamiya 7. I like the Mamiya, but I do miss this camera. I have a Hasselblad and a Rolleiflex as well. This Fuji has the sharpest lens in medium format for film. The Mamiya lenses are sharp too, but when I compare f/11 with the 80mm...heck, even at f/16, the Fuji is sharper and hardly has diffraction at f/16. The Fuji also has the best viewfinder ever in a rangefinder film camera. It's because of the Fuji that I can guess correctly what my shot will look like on the Mamiya. It's because of the Fuji that I love square format. I don't know want to drop $3,000 but maybe I'll have to...😂
Thanks so much for confirming that the Fuji is sharper than the Mamiya 7. As I mentioned I used both too so that was my finding but people that only own the Mamiya always say that is the sharpest. Sell the Mamiya and it will pay a good amount towards the Fuji! :)
I'd love to have one, but I'll still bet on the Mamiya 7 II that I used to have.
I preferred my GF670 when I owned both but I used the Mamiya 6 more than both of them
As always, in the 6x7 league everybody forgets the GS1. That's why I bought almost all the lenses and 4 backs for a bargain. Thanks for the review, that's a great camera! But I'd go for a 645 to have those extra frames squeezed in as a daily MF carry. Cheers !
Thanks! Yes I agree, 645 is the best middle ground.. love my Hassy H2 for that. (and others!)
The GS1 is so underated! Picked one up with extra backs and all the “common” lenses for next to nothing compared to what the Pentax/Mamiyas were going for.
Been serving me well
In my opinion this is the direction that Fuji should take with the recently mentioned GFX version of their crop sensor X100x series of cameras.
Thanks, it would be nice!
It never spoke to me. The Plaubel Makina 67 much more so, at least in terms of foldable rangefinder designs. In terms of available lenses, the Pentax 6x7 is still king if you only want to use the production lenses. If you want to adapt lenses, you can always get a Contax Planar 80/2.0 and adapt it to almost any 645 and some 6x6 cameras.
Thanks! I never thought of adapting the Contax 80/2.. that is one of the best lenses i've ever used. I love Hasselblad for portraits so my folders get used less, more for travel. I used to own the Contax system but sold it at the time as too DSLR like ha..and bought..are you ready.. a Kiev 88! Loved using that camera. Video still to come on that :)
Love that you can shoot 6x6 or 6x7. However not crazy about the modern/digital rendering. Lacks character to me. Same reason I don't care for the Mamiya 6/7
Thanks yes I totally understand that. They say the same for the Fuji GS645 too.
Great review, thanks. It is a super camera. But I have a question: When I tried 35mm in the camera, the images overlapped. Any tips?
Thanks Michael, I did my 35mm images some years ago. What you say could be true for me too thinking about it as I ended up cropping most of the photos I think. That long shot I shared has overlap if you look. Hmm I can't remember if I had it working other times. If the film is loaded tight in theory the film should advance enough so no overlap.
Damn it Matt. I don't currently own any Fuji medium format rangefinders. But my finger's been hovering over the "pay with PayPal". Don't do this to me!!!! Hahahaha.
I did have a GS690, but sold. This one I could actually have with more cameras in my camera bag. Also, I buy a lot of fomapan! Good stuff.
Your videos have gotten extremely good. How you show dial operation and viewfinder is just excellent. Keep being awesome.
Thanks James, I appreciate your support. To me my videos are still rubbish and i've never happy with my presenting attempts but at least less rubbish than 12 months ago so if I keep at it hopefully eventually practice will make me better. I try to include all the facts and photos to make up for it. Yes I managed to use my iphone in the VF. It is a nice size for a MF for sure.
Yes love Fomapan too! :)
My phone is how I get photos of viewfinders for my eBay posts too. Works a charm. That's something missing from so many camera reviews. I would pay good money for something showing and comparing the internal views of all the different cameras. In my opinion, it's one of the most important aspects of a camera. Integral to the photographer's experience.
Thanks James! Are you in the UK, US? The import fees from Japan are 20% + fees so I also estimate around 25% so not to get caught out!
Canada. Duty can be quite bad, that's why I insist sellers use FedEx. I've gotten away with out paying it lately. *Knock on wood*
Very exciting camera... more tempting than a Leica in my opinion...
Yes Leica didn't make MF film cameras (sadly) so this gives big negatives in a Leica footprint, so to speak! :)
This is my second favorite medium format camera.. the only better one would be the wide version.. I have the Bessa II 667W ( same as GF670W, but in black, whereas the GF670W only comes in silver,, not too suitable for street photography IMO).. The wide version has an on-off switch, because it doesn't have bellows. The wide version is even more quieter than the GF670!!! Anyways , both are so much wonderful,,, Just wish they last,,,, because especially the GF670s tend to break easily being made of fragile plastic components.. I've seen many crack very easily.,,
Thank you Changeun! It would be nice to try the wide version one day as I tend to see a wider scene with my eyes. Thanks for the info!
But it has no electronics to break. Like Mamiyas.
Prices have gone nuts. I recently sold my XPan + lenses to a camera store for about twice what I paid five years ago. My GF670 is not for sale, though my GSW 690 III may be.
Agreed Fred, I'll be honest despite it being an amazing camera I rarely use mine so perhaps I should sell it. I do mostly portraits as you may have seen so I prefer my Hassys for that.
I hated to see it go, but having shot two rolls with it in five years, it was time. On the other hand, I've cropped a number of digital images down to 24x65, with sometimes surprising results. You're young yet, don't be in a hurry to unload it, only to kick yourself a few years later. I've done that a few times, most recently with an FM2N that I felt compelled to reacquire last month.
@@flatulent-1 thanks Fred, wise words thank you
Nice review, but I'm still not convinced. While its small for transport, I'm not sure if that matters so much? When am I so much out of space during camera transport that I need the camera to fold down? And the fact that it folds also means that whenever I need to use it I need to fold it out, and when I stop using it I need to fold it back in. I think that gets old pretty quick. At least something like a Mamiya 6 folds out, but also has protected bellows so you can carry it around folded out without worrying about it. But I think I would just rather have a fixed lens like a Mamiya 7ii + 80mm that is just ready to go when I pull it out of the bag.
Also, the fact that its fixed lens invariably means its not gonna be my only camera - illustrated by the fact that you're also carrying a Leica with 3 lenses along with it. So how useful is that exactly? I dunno. How much more IQ do you really need than what you can get out of a Leica, and a 50mm f/1.4 Leica lens is also going to deliver shallower depth of field than this camera, too. Most people watching this and reading your site are just enthusiasts with GAS and chances are they've already got something that can do what this camera does. I would say this does not seem like a very useful purchase.
Thanks and sorry I missed this. The Mamiya 6 is great, and more robust for sure. It’s ready near instantly so ignore any 1 second delay to ‘unfold’. If you prefer 6x7 the 7 offers that. GF is more fragile but better images for me. All are RF for focus speed. Agree a Leica with good lens and premium film is still better for most people. (Unless need the big 67 negs).
i want one
Ha yes they are quite hard to find these days
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom been dedbating on selling my hasselblad for one of these since i mainly am out and about shooting everyday things and carrying the hasselblad while not quite that big still anoying to carry
@@keybladesss these will fit into the small Billingham bag but as a daily user I’d get a Mamiya 6. Tougher but compact enough.
Would you still recommend this as the best option for portable MF cameras? Compared to the Plaubel Makina670, perhaps?
See my recent top 10 video. Both those mentioned are a little fragile. Mamiya 6 maybe tougher.
I have 4 years to acquire one of these, planning a trip to Iceland, want to take a good folder like this. In 3.5 years, I might be hitting you up to borrow yours if I cannot find one for a reasonable price. 😉
Nice John, love your plan! You might want to take a Xpan too if you happen to find one in a garage sale! :)
If your purpose is to take landscapes there are plenty of more affordable options among folders. I’d name some, but don’t want to assume your purpose.
@@milesian1 thanks for your input 🙏🏻
@@milesian1 compactness and high performance are key. I specifically want 6x7, so that limits my options
@@highlander200107 Unfortunately, I can't think of other 6x7 folders besides the ones Matt features here, namely the GF670/Bessa III and the Plaubel Makina. There are numerous good options in the 645 format from Fujifilm/Fujica like the GS645 Pro (in 75mm and wide 45mm variants) that are folders with good EBC coated glass, and also many in 6x6 and 6x9 format of earlier vintage, including Zeiss Ikon and Agfa Isolette models. Wish I could be of greater help.
Haha. Have you seen the current price on these ? We need someone to manufacture a modular rangefinder box camera. Barring those fabulous Fujinon optics, we’re essentially looking at a souped up Holga sans light leaks. At these prices you’re almost straying into second hand X1d territory.
I dare not look but they were silly prices when I last checked!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom You could buy a used 007 and have change left to buy a refurbished RZ/lens combo. Godox and TTArtisan need to jump on this bandwagon asap.
It was waaay more affordable when it was new, too bad i had my heart set on a Mamiya 7 ,so I never pulled the trigger.
I know! I feel the same about the Makina, they look nicely made cameras.
Can you use zone focusing on this camera?
Yes but easier at higher f stops
Considering this over the Plaubel 670, 67 or the W67. Cost, lens sharpness and fragility is the concern. This GS670 appears to be "it". Any opinions?
Yes see my P67 video.. I went for this instead as stronger (most comments agree the Plaubel is too fragile)
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom
Thank you Matt, watched your videos twice or maybe three times. The Plaubel now looks anemic. And then with knowledge watched one other very feature packed review. You are spot on. The Fuji is truly in a league of it own. Compactness, sharpeness of lens and aperture priority. I also respect flash sink at any speed, parallax correction via focus adjustment (must see that for myself) and up to a 4sec shutter speed. The lens opened up at close focus might give a pretty and tight bokeh? I am a believer. Now for the cash and wife's difficult okay. Gulp...
Two things:
- Wow, you make spectacular images!!
- Are replacement parts available for this fully battery dependent camera?
Thank you! ..and answer, i'm not sure sorry. You can probably find repair guys to fix bellows etc if needed.
I can attest to the issues to repair the GF670. In the US it is 'very' difficult to get this camera repaired. Fuji in New Jersey won't touch it. They will refer you to Southland Photo in Florida. When Fuji decided to stop repairing film cameras (in the US) all the parts and tools went to Southland Photo. That is what Fuji told me. However, I choose to not use Southland for my repair.
My GF front focuses almost 6 cm and I was frustrated by the lack of options for repair in the US. I follow Japan Camera Hunter on IG and YT and saw that they will assist in having camera's repaired. So I sent the camera to Japan (Fuji) with the help of Bellamy Hunt (aka Japan Camera Hunter). He is acting as the liaison to get the camera to Fuji and have it repaired.
I'm still waiting for a quote from Fuji on the cost, but I'm eager to have this camera back.
@@SteveMillerhuntingforfood sorry to hear Steve, I just got a skilled Leica repair man to do mine some years ago.
17:14 photo is street photography at its finest 😮
Thank you!
why is there no decent review of the voigtlander Bessa 656W I've nor seen one. Thanks
Sorry I've never owned or tried one otherwise I would have made a video
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom sorry a typo on myt part. I meant 667W
I always look for these cameras but never find good ones. Voigtlander cameras a really difficult to find. Leica, Hassblad, etc are all relatively easy to find.
Hi Stuart, yes I had to import mine from Japan, even some years ago.
Yeah its trying to find a reputable dealer! Great camera, wish i picked one up when they originally came out.
@@stuartconnelly5397 easy to say in hindsight! I would have done the same with a few cameras!
When the forthcoming of this camera was announced, I wanted one - badly. When it finally arrived with a price tag in the range of $2,400, my sticker shock forced a re-evaluation. My need in terms of not having available other cameras which would do its job, more or less, was non-existent. My lust for high quality folding MF cameras was well covered. So, I passed buying one, although I reconsidered every few years, hoping that used prices would fall. They really didn't. Then. a trickle of negativity leaked out over various problems which seemed to impact the folding models. My desire for a GF670 (or a Bessa III) at the continuing high prices finally died. I do not know how Fuji and Cosina split the design and build of this camera. Each has done outstanding work on their own, but together on this one, it just didn't come together.
Thanks. I had no issues with mine but I find other 6x6 much more enjoyable to use.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom When Fuji stopped distributing the GF670 folder, they sold their remaining warehouse stock to B&H in NYC. As B&H sold off the remainder, they started getting a lot of returns and complaints over a particular problem. I forget what is was, but it seemed to present a problem Fuji was hard pressed to resolve for lack of some part as I recall. There was a fair amount of internet chatter about it at the time. Man, this discussion makes me feel so old. I remember that during the period between announcement and first sale of the GF670, I kept thinking how perfectly it would slot in between my much favored GS645 Fuji folder and my Pentax 67 system. Now it has come, and it is gone. Ouch!
Where would you get these serviced?
I would search repair centres in your country and ask them if they can do it.
Mine has a battery drain issue. anyone know how to deal with that?
Sorry to hear, you could take out the battery when not in use
One correction: The lens is a 35mm equivalent of 40mm f/1.75 which is normal
Thanks Andrew, great info! That is when shooting 6x7 so when I use as 6x6 it often feels too narrow for me.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Ahhh yes, of course. I stand corrected!
It might be the sharpest lens, but I struggle to find the images I get for it appealing. vastly prefer what the RZ67 gives me. considering selling mine to fund a digital Leica M.
Totally understand. The RZ67 is way more fun to use, I have it. It's a bit like using a Mamiya 7 but better IMO. Great for high res snaps like Willem does but for creative stuff other cameras are better. A digital Leica is more useful.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom RZ is way bigger, is changing eveything, this madium format in 35 size
These are pricey, but lovely
Yes!
What is your best B&W film for best contrast and sharpness?
Hi Georgios, I like Kodak TMax 400 & 100 - nice blacks and good contrast, sharpness and fine detail. If you prefer more grain get Kodak TriX 400
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom its needed to specify the developer too. In case of Tmax its Tmax. But then you have a negative you wont recognize from digital.
Slightly off topic Matt , but can you tell me is that hasselblad prism better
to use than the waist level finder ?
Hi Leonard, yes I think I mention it in the Hasselblad video in more detail. I love WLF but if I can't see to focus I need to use the prism. The WLF makes for a smaller setup so it is a trade off. I use both.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Thanks Matt for the swift reply, I’m going through your videos so I’ll check
That one out.
@@leonarddavis8449 if you want to sign up to the MrLeica blog you get an all video search tool which might help
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Okay thanks.
Do you find yourself shooting at >= 5.6 to ensure acceptably sharp focus? I find it very hard to nail focus at 3.5 although it may be down to a need for a proper RF calibration. Let us know of your 'miss' rate at f/3.5-f/4 (or lack thereof). Thanks in advance!
I had mine recalibrated after a few years as I was missing wide open, and tend to shoot wide open, it's fine now.
How big is a scanned file.
Hi William, there is no set answer as the MF negatives are so much larger than 35mm than I scan at lower res so the files are not to large.
Is there a wide-angle version?
I think so yes but it was less common. I forget the name. Fuji did the same with their 645 models - standard and wide
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom thanks Matt. 😊
🥂
Kevin,
I disagree. My vote goes to the Mamiya 7ii. A fixed lens is too limiting. The bellows is a definite weak point. The Mamiya lenses are superb.
Thanks yes I agree with the fixed lens limitation. I like 6x6 so I use my Mamiya 6 for travel (2-3 lenses and more sold as you say).
Mamiyas sooner-or-later electronics to die are much weaker point in my view.
Beautiful camera, seems a little to fragile for me. Maybe if it had a slightly wider lens, 65mm.
Yes I prefer a wide walk around lens too. I tend to use the Mamiya 6 + 50mm & 150mm these days for MF on the road.
i believe they did make the same camera with a 55mm lens!
@@speedyg625 thanks, yes correct! I wish I’d mentioned it in the video - GF670W* 55mm lens
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom yep and the voigtlander bessa iii 667w a bit of a rarity ive only ever seen one for sale but with a 28mm equivalent lens seems like a perfect street travel companion with the 80mm folding fuji!
@@speedyg625 thanks yes I’ve never come across one either - and yes the perfect combo!
Stacked up against the Mamiya 7 and the Plaubel Makina 67 it is certainly not better and only a bit different
Thanks WM, yes i'd like to try a Makina one day. The reports of being easy to mis focus wide open put me off originally from memory but that is of course true with an RF camera if not calibrated (moreso with faster lenses ofc).
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom true, the faster the lens, the more crucial is calibration with any camera. It's easier with an SLR but similar important. Sadly I hadn't the pleasure of using anything of those 3 except for the Mamiya for longer. All 3 cameras do have nice lenses, but for me Mamiya wins because of its user interface and the option of going wide (43mm, 50mm, 65mm). Also it is not sensible bigger when traveling (except if you try to bring all the lenses).
Sorry Matt, but the best medium format camera are the 500 and 200/2000 series Hasselblad cameras, bescause it is the most handy 6x6 system. The Fuji are maybe good, but have only got one Lens.
Thanks CP, yes agreed, as mentioned in the video I love Hasselblads too, I have a few. I used them non-stop for a few years before going back to 35mm. I think optically the GF670 is up there with the 120mm Macro lens but in a much smaller package but agree a system camera like the Hassy is a much better work tool.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom It would have been so nice if the Fuji could use at least 3 Lenses, a wide angle, a "normal" and a short tele Lens :)
@@cameraprepper7938 yes like the Mamiya 6 👍🏻
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom Yes/no, the Fuji like it is made, just with a mount to change the Lenses :D I love the Mamiya 6, but it is not that compact like the folding Fuji.
@@cameraprepper7938 thanks
£3k on ebay. I would say better value than a Leica but geez that’s still a big lump of cash for a film camera 📷
Agreed, just by luck I bought mine when a few shops still had them...and prices were lower.
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom I have to say you're not selling the idea of me using film again. I do like your content though :)
I found it too sharp/modern and lens was just too slow. Went with the Plaubel Makina 670
But a beautiful camera all the same
Thanks yes I can see that. It gives a very modern look. They say the same for the smaller GS645 I use. I was tempted by the Makina but I prefer square format. Very nice though!
@@MattOsborne-MrLeicaCom the option of 6x6 or 6x7 is amazing though. I was really considering this but I shoot mostly at night
@@Murdog36 agreed, I wish they’d made a 6x6 Makina :)
Alas they seem to cost way over £2,000 even second hand.
Thanks Dan, yes they went up with everything sadly in the last 2 years.
My white whale camera 🙃🙈
Ha thanks Jan! :)
I'm selling mine!!! This camera is one of my favourite but Im stoping film photography... Reach out to me if you're interested (Im not a scam!!!!)
Thanks, I eventually sold mine too. The photos are great but the Hassy is better for my portraits.
This is not the best medium format film camera, cause mamiya 7 is much better, and mamiya 6mf is much more convinent and sharper
Thanks, yes I know most people like the 7 the most but mine was calibrated yet it still didn't look that great to me. I like the 6 more than the 7, the 6x6 and the compact size.
Mate I love your reviews but most of the cameras you present are way Too Expensive. I get your a working portrait photographer and earn Big bucks and can afford most of these cameras but the average Joe with a family and mortgage can not. Sorry mate I can not watch your videos anymore....but God Bless.
Hi, thanks for checking out my older videos. Yes Leica are expensive (and some of these cult film cameras) but I use Nikon too. Check out the FG-20 or Minolta X-300 videos... or Soviet RF camera ..or vintage Canon RF cameras.. there are lots of cheap options. It's what you do with them that counts. (*And model photography doesn't pay FYI, I was in a high stress Corporate job when I bought this cameras. Long hours so no time to party so I bought cameras over 10 yrs. Now I'm a full time RUclipsr so can share them.. and back then they were a lot cheaper).