Another camera to mention is the 2x3 crown graphic. You can get one for only $250-300. This medium format rangefinder camera features tilt, shift, and rise capabilties, removeable backs from 645 to 6x9. Camera is pretty small considering it can do 6x7 and 6x9, the only downside is the lens selection.
My first medium format camera was a Mamiya C330 with a 105mm lens that I purchased several years ago. I like it and the images that I can produce with it. You are right about TLR cameras being great conversation starters as they are not something regularly seen these days.
My first medium format camera was a Yashicamat 124G that I got new in 1978 ... I then taught basic photography at a summer camp in 1979 and ended up with a Diana to use and teach the kids to use. Somewhere in the 1990s I went down the Soviet rabbit hole and got Lubitels, Kiev 60s, Salyuts and Kiev 88s ... in the last decade I got a Mamiya 6, Mamiya C3 and Mamiya RB67 ... not to mention dozens of old folders that take either 120 or 620 ... I tend to cycle through them all and have yet to have a bad experience shooting and processing the film!!!
I wish I could have liked this video twice! Thanks so much for putting these interesting cameras together and giving some interesting points about each one. I've looked at many medium format cameras but could never pick one.
This is a super useful list! Being a big cheapskate, I have a Konica Pearl II, which is a 6x4.5 folder. The Olympus in this list was a close second choice, but I think the uncoupled rangefinder would've been a big annoyance. My Pearl is already super slow to shoot.
I started on a Kiev60 with a Zeiss lens. The lens ist truely GOAT, razor sharp open and the most juicy bokeh ever! But I just didn't get warm with it, its special quirks like the controls just didn't fit me at all. At some point I randomly found a Fujica GM670 and decided to switch systems. Best decision ever! ;) It's one of the nicest rangefinders you'll ever try and the lenses in this particular system are very very good too! I enjoyed that cam so much that I got a G690 for even bigger negatives an more versatility. Those Texas Leicas are truely underated and underpriced for what they offer!
I fell in love with my Yashica Mat 124 G. I took it for a spin at 6 Flags years ago. I enjoyed everything about it. It made me use my photographic eye more. I loved the square format so much, I bought a Hasselblad 2000 FCM. Later I purchased another Hasselblad at a trade show. My customers loved the 10x10 and 5x5 prints.
My first was a Mamiya 645 that I bought back in the 80's...still have it, and it still works like new. Added an RZ-67 boat anchor several years ago, and now shoot 6x17 on 120 film with a Shen Hao view camera. Still shoot plenty of digital, but medium format is a cut above since you really can't 'spray and pray'...proper metering is much more critical and satisfying.
Started my medium format journey with Pentax 645 but not too long I found out about the RB67 I got it almost immediately, I've only had the camera for a year but it's my favorite camera out of all my collection
I'm just waiting to get my impulse bought Pentax 6x7 back from the repair guy. It needed a lotta work done... But in the end I'll be very happy to use it because I'm also getting a brightscreen installed, which will make it very appealing to use.
Got into medium format on the Pentacon Six, massive lens selection from both Carl Zeiss Jena and Arsenal, prices for serviced bodies are pretty reasonable, and you can fit 13 shots on a roll consistently if the frame spacing is properly calibrated.
Yeah, kievs, araxes and salutes are pretty cool, but mechanically they're such a hassle, I went through 2 soviet medium format cameras and im not really a big 120mm shooter. That reliability was fine in the 2010s when you could just buy another one for the price of a beer bottle, but now those things are like 100-200 bucks even in my post-soviet wasteland, seems like they're going extinct, get em while you can
I owned a full service photo studio starting back in 1973. For events I used a Mamiya Press and Mamiya Universal both 6x7 cameras. For studio work my dealer talked me into Hassleblad which spent more time getting serviced than shooting. Traded it in 1975 for the RB67 which I still have and still works like a champ. For field work I also switched to Mamiya 6x4.5 system that I no longer have which I regret. mamiya lenses were special.
I love my RB67! My favorite camera I own by far. The size and weight is so worth it to me cause I genuinely have more fun shooting that camera than any others.
Hello! My first and so far the only one medium camera is Lubitel 166, and yes its definitely not the best camera in the world but still love it. By the way cool channel!Greetings from Ukraine.
I started with a Bronica s2a... but I have issues with its reliability, and with finding someone to service it. It's currently sitting on a shelf. I was then gifted a Kodak Box Brownie. These are brilliant starters. They're light. They're reliable. They take great photos. This last weekend I just picked up an Ensign 820 from a camera fair. It's a solid folding camera. I've just got my first roll of film in it rn so I can't say anything about the image quality. Probably the worst thing about the Ensign so far is the zone focusing. That's taking a bit to get used to. It has a process a lot closer to a LF camera with the need to cock the shutter on the lens before taking the photo. I think I'm moving towards using my tripod more with this one. Cheers
Cool video. I started medium format with a Mamiya RZ67 - incredible camera. The bought the Texas Leica, Fuji GW690III. Awesome. The got a Bronica SQ-A cause it's smaller tha the RZ67. Would recommend Yashica 24 with the 120 back, it's a gem. Also the Voitländer Perkeo II is a super cool small size 6x6 ideal for travel, medium format doesn't get smaller than that. Happy shooting!
Bought my C220 about 19.5 years ago with the 80mm. Love it. Also have a RB67 with the 127. Earlier this year I found a Minolta Autocord early version with the non standard shutter speeds. I will need to send that out for a full CLA, handles nice but I can see why the C220 cost more.
My first medium format camera, the Pentax 6x7, the perfect camera for anyone moving from 35mm (as I did), the handling is so familiar and the quality is really very top notch, I can compare it with certain Zeiss lens medium format cameras and if anything, many of the lenses in the Pentax system are better. Basically, it is a great camera and it is still reasonably priced when compared to certain others. Film loading is a bit of a pain until you get used to it but no worse and actually better than many medium format cameras. Cannot praise it too highly.
I like the confidence when you said bronica c220. when it comes to film medium format, TLR cameras are what first comes to my mind and 6x6 format. I am shooting now with Yashica LM, really really enjoying it. Before that I had Yashica-12, but it had some small issues, attempted to fix it, wasn't anything difficult but the small parts said hell no, and went flying God knows where. So know I have Yashica-12 with broken shutter. Know I am looking to upgrade the viewfinder with brighter focusing screen and a new mirror on Yashica LM.
I also have a P6, and I would say the Zeiss Jena lenses make it special and maybe superior compared to these mentioned here. But, of course, the P6 has only the bare features required, and there are cameras with more features. On the other hand the P6 is able to shoot 1/1000s which not all others are capable of.
Great video. I have a Bronica ETRs (645) and a Yashica 124G (TLR). One note if it hasn’t been mentioned: You said “Bronica C220” at 5:46. Shortly after you said it correctly (Mamiya C220) but thought I’d mention it. Great videos. 👍🏽
I shoot an old ARGUS SUPER SEVENTY-FIVE and an ARGUS SEVENTY-FIVE, and they both take great photos! I also have a Kodak Reflex. (a true TLR). All of these are 620 film cameras, but it is SUPER EASY to modify the ends of the 120 spools to fit in a 620 camera. Just use a pair of large toenail clippers and clip off the outer ring of the ends of the plastic spools so it is the same size as the original old metal 620 spools. It is very easy to do.
The first medium format camera that I actually stuck with/enjoyed was my Kiev 6C. The ergonomics are a little unusual but don't bother me in the slightest, the 6C supposedly has less of the spacing issues and such that the 60 is often reported to have (and I've never had any spacing or mechanical issues with my 6C), and the soviet glass available for it is actually fantastic and reasonably cheap to say nothing of the Zeiss stuff
I have a Mamiya C220, bought new about 1975, 80mm, 55mm & 135mm lenses. Less used since I started using large format, but still very usable. Started on my father's Rolleiflex (which I gave to my niece, and is still being used).
started Medium Format photography with a Linhof Technika 6x9 in 1982. The camera was built 1956 and i got it as a present with three interchangeable lenses : 65mm, 105mm and 180mmm . One magazine for rollfilms (120 or 220 was added and later I bought a Polaroid back for using 667, 669 and BW Material with negatives, which is sadly not produced anymore. so I moved to Fuji FP 100 sheets which are costwise not affordable in todays offers. 140€ for 10 sheets does not make fun! in my professional career I shot with Hasselblads, Mamyas, and the Fuji GS 680...heavy beasts! Now in my retirement phase I bought 2 old Roleiflex SL66 bodies with 3 Lenses, four film magazines and start workshops for beginners in analogue photography. I still own the Linhof and it works properly until now, which shows the high precision of production in the 1950s. But it needs accurate handling and a lot of time. Slows down to : every shot has to be considered. No street photography camera!
Bought a Zeiss super ikonta iv for like $50 once, other than needing to tighten the film advance screw ever 3 shots it’s in real good condition This was like a week before I bought a Zeiss contax iiia that just needed a cla for $35. That was a really good week for me
Graflex 2x3 junior SLR's or 2x3 Crown Graphics. They're super versatile and tanky cameras. They're just small and light enough to carry around casually
For a bigger neg shooting experience look out for the Voigtlander Bessa i or ii 6x9 entirely mechanical folder which will slip into the pocket of cargo pants, or even baggy jeans (tho not sitting down) The i is viewfinder only; the ii is a coupled rangefinder, and usually quite a bit more expensive. Each come with multiple 105mm lens/shutter options including a ridiculously pricy unicorn. They originally all came with a 645 mask as well, but finding that with one is rare as hens teeth.
@@metalfingersfilm my other camera is a Mamiya c330; that whole “looking down into a back to front square image” tlr experience takes more getting used to than the “tiny view finder on a big folding camera”… there’s no such thing as “the perfect camera”, trade offs between each. I love the precision and versatility of lens choices with the C series, but can’t pretend i “really” love square format (or the weight). The Voigtlander is a super “primitive” 70yo camera, but by removing a ton of choices and options it makes me really own every choice i make - if that makes any sense… and seeing your first 6x9 neg or slide on a light box… wow. It’s also way more protected and less delicate (when folded) than almost anything else I’ve owned. For someone looking at making a jump from from 35 to 120, i really suggest they get an app like Viewfinder and preset in a few different format/lens combos and go out on a photo walk and see what appeals. It’s not the same as having the camera in hand, but it sure will help you work out if you “hate” square or 645. Nothing worse than spending ages trying to weigh up between different cameras only to find you choose something in a format you find hard to relate to.
Just started my photography journey last year 35 mm p&s and a digicam. Currently making a list of my go to slr camera but medium format is something I should focus sometime in future learning 35 atm. The one I’ve been drooling over is the ashi pentax 6/7 and the Fuji Fujica Fujifilm GS645S Camera Wide60 😊 beautiful cameras
I would also mention the Kowa cameras, very popular in Japan, less known in the states. My favorite is the Pentax 67 whitch I own along with 55mm, 90mm, 135 macro, and 200mm telephoto. I just need to find some film and get out there.
I keep looking at the Mamiya Press line. A lot of lenses, can shoot 6x7 or 6x9 depending on back. Giant beastie machines, but oddly tempting. Also, the fact that they typically have Seiko shutters is a great bit of camera-geek/watch-geek overlap. Often around $300. One thing in my mind, however: shopping for medium format often lends itself to a wait and see. Check local classifieds, things like Craigslist and Facebook marketplace and such. Don’t rush, don’t press. Just wait, be patient (like you often have to be when shooting medium format). You might just find a good deal. I found someone selling a very nice TLR and a Nikon FM for $260. That was kind of hitting the mother load, but I’ve seen Pentax 67 at reasonable prices, Bronica ETRS, and more. Not often, maybe a tempting cameras every few months.
Great overview. I've use most of those cameras (except the RB67 and Olympus 6). The Autocord is a wonderful camera with a wonderful lens. Highly recommended. Also the Mamiya Six folder. Those came usually with Zuiko lenses, which unfortunately tend to have permanent deep haze which will definitely affect image quality. The better choice is to find one with the Sekor lens, which doesn't suffer from haze. One of my favorite folders is the Super Fujica Six, which tends to fly under the radar a bit, so it's still affordable. It's a more modern-looking (for 1957, anyway), easy to use 6x6 gem. I also still use and enjoy the Mamiya 645 1000s, which is built like a tank. And lately I've loved using the Bronica ETRS, which shoots 645. I also have the hard to find 135W back, which lets you take true panoramic shot on the camera using 35mm film (almost as wide as an Xpan). One that I have but haven't shot with yet, but that gets great reviews, is the Kodak Medalist II. It's a solid metal brick that shoots 6x9. Uses 620 film, but I had mine converted to take 120. You can also just use a dark bag and respool 120 film onto 620 spools.
A good TLR that is similar to the autocord is the meopta flexaret series, the V (5) notably. I have one and it's quite . Was made in what was still called Czechoslovakia
I started shooting medium format on a Fujica GW690 II. There's a few versions of the camera including some 6x7 and 6x8 variants. Only other recommendation would be a Bronica GS-1 if you can find one for a fair price. They're like a lighter Mamiya RB67 so long as you can handle the camera requiring a battery.
I want a 6x7 camera eventually, but for now my only medium format camera is an Autocord. It’s extra awesome because I got it for $75 bc it was “broken”. Fixed the issues beside a light leak I’m chasing. That camera takes really high res gorgeous photos
If you like the Bronica S2/S2A, I would also recommend checking out the C/C2. Essentially the same camera, but the film loads directly into the body instead of with a detachable film back. This is way handier if you do not need to change film stocks mid roll- makes for a more compact body and eliminates the need for a dark slide!
not to mention the connection between the body and the film back has been known to be problematic in the S2 models. I experienced a bit of advance issues on one of my film backs because of this.
Good thinking! I think many times I get caught up with the features of the camera, despite many of them being faulty on these old cameras! Thanks for watching and commenting!
yep, prices have gone nuts. If you buy an old secondhand one it is considered by many wise to factor in a CLA. Shutter speeds in particular can be really off.
Not knowing whether medium format would be something I would enjoy shooting I started out with a 240€ Kiev88 Hasselblad500 lookalike that was modified with a more durable cloth-shutter and a mirror lock up button. I then made a "Hasselblyat" Logo in Photoshop, glued it onto that thing and was happy with it. Mechanically it was far from perfect as the shutter would get stuck and stay open halfway through if you held it in a "wrong" angle or inadvertently touched the shutter dial or whatever. Lenses on these are great, nevertheless. I had the standard 80mm 2.8 and a 150mm 2.8 wich was just a massive chunk of glass and steel. Two years later I sold it for a real Hasselblad but I still miss it sometimes. You could just mindlessly toss it into your backback or trunk and just not worry about it getting a little roughed up... wouldn't do that to the Hasselblad. Long story short: everyone should own a cheap, quirky medium format camera!
My first medium format camera is a Yashica A. Good camera but easy to make mistakes. I always wanted a Pentax 6x7, so that was my next one. My go to lens is the Macro 130mm f4. 3rd M Format is the Yashica 124g. Nice camera but not my favorite and I don’t know why. Might be the whole twr viewer and focus system. Takes good pictures.
My first (and only) MF camera is the Mamiya 645 1000s. Paid ~500 EUR with two lenses and many accessories included. Thinking to move to a Mamiya 7ii or RB67 in the future.
hello folks. i had 2 questions if you have a minute: 1. i know you mention that medium format is not great for action or wildlife because of the speed. but what about for fashion and event photography? does the speed also become a concern there? i mean i never use burst shutter ever. but auto focus speed and clicking to capture quickly at each moment is important to my work. 2. if i find the things you mention in your video about the GFX100 useful for me, but my budget is only for the GFX50 - do you think ill still get those medium format perks with the 50? i'd be upgrading from a sony a7iii. the other option was going to be the a7v when it comes out soon (hopefully).
I've got Kowa Super 66 and Fuji GW680III, dunno the prices now, but I've picked them up for around 800€/each (in perfect condition and serviced). Fuji is more comfortable to shoot in my opinion and Kowa is so heavy! Results are fantastic on both though.
I started with a Fuji GW690 III (Texas Leica) - excellent 6X9 images and a very sharp lens. No light meter. I got this for around $400. It showed signs of use, but worked perfectly. Only 8 shots per roll. It hurts. Learned how to be very selective with my shots and make sure they were "perfect"
Bronica S2A is a great camera, once you get past the operating issues that plague it, it becomes a great affordable option. If you want something little more modern I would recommend the SQ-a if you want 6x6 but any of the Bronicas are great. I shoot with an SQ-a that I got for $500 and the viewfinder and lens are so sharp and bright. MK1 Fuji GW690 is another affordable option, as well as the Pentax 645 or the Mamiya 645
@@metalfingersfilm Same! I have a Pentax 67 that rarely gets any use because the weight difference between the 2 is night/day and I prefer the WLVF too.
honestly suprised the koni omega didn't make the list, for under 200 dollars you get a super fast and sharp 6x7 rangefinder with some really innovative features.
The cameras are cheap-ish, but Portra 400 on 120 is like $1.40/click *before processing/scanning/printing* if you’re shooting 6x6. Out of control. 50% more than Instax.
Voigtlander Perkeo (with skopar) or Bessa 46/66 with heliar/skopar, Meopta flexaret, Moskva5, the mamiya six should be explicitly recommended with the sekor lenses, since those dont suffer from hazing as much as zuiko lenses in those cameras.
The Rolleicord TLR is the poor man’s Rolleiflex. They sell for between $200-$400 depending on the condition and lens. I’ve had one for a decade and have had no problems.
I've got an RB67 and a wide angle pinhole Holga WPC. Completely different cameras, completely different shooting experiences, and completely different results.
For 6x6, my favourite is Yashica Mat (or Rolleicord, if you are lucky enough) and the Mamiya C system. Personally I'll stay away from most of the folding cameras because they are zone-focus only.
@@metalfingersfilm It's great, but I treat it like a sick kid and should take it out more often. I feel like I'd break it if I was slighty rough with it. The total opposite of something like a Nikon F4.
I don't think that you can buy 220 film. If I'm mistaken please let me know. I have a Mamiya RB67 with 3 film backs, one of which is for 220 and apparently can use 120.
I started taking photos about two years ago with a rb67 and now I just picked up the bronica ec for a hiking trip I’m going onfor the exact reason in the video, there was no way I wanted to hike for three days with the rb67. On the upside im getting a couple more frames out of the ec but one the downside it’s 6x6 so all the photos will be square
Yeah, I've toyed with brining the bronica on a hike. I think something >4 miles would be okay, but anything more than that or with elevation gain would be touggghhh (mores annoying af) "why did I bring this giant ass camera" I would be pouting all the way up the trail, lol
RB67 body with the adapter P is probably $400, but it does not include the film back, lens and the waist level finder. The full camera kit will be about $800-1000
@@metalfingersfilm That’s a good price. Considering the back is like $100 and the older 127mm lens is like $100 (this is not a green C or KL lens), assuming this copy of the 127mm does not have fog in it. This makes the body $200 with the adapter P.
@@metalfingersfilm I would say, a pro SD kit with a KL lens and Pro SD film back and waist level finder, if you can find one for $800, jump on it. I don’t need any more RB. I have three of them (one pro and two pro sd) hehe. I really like my RBs.
Bronica S2A is one the greatest medium format cameras of all time, besides the focal plane shutter, it's superior to the Hasselblad 500 C in every way. I own a 500C/M and use my Bronica S2A over it most of the time. Better waist-level finder, a better stock screen, If you're not worried about flash, The Bronica S2A can mimic the 500C and I can barely tell the difference between negatives. For around 500 bucks you can get an entire S2A kit with an additional back, that's insane value for money. The only complaint I have is the back is fing annoying to seal properly. It's a lot of work to do light seals on an S2 Back, as opposed to the Hassy A12 is so simple a child could do it. There's tons of seal material in an S2 back from around the film plate to the dark slide area to the actual door on the back. It's not terribly difficult its just a few hours vs 10 minutes. There are a few ways to tell a Bronica is an S2A. There's a lot of confusion online about this and most of it is misleading. If the Bronica you're looking at has a BLACK plastic crank handle it's an S2A with improved gearing. If it's a chrome silver color it's an older S2 with softer gears. I have both and have treated cranking the same as my hassy and not pulling out the lever and cranking it in turns rather than using the pop out lever. It's less stressful on the mechanics this way.
Does anyone know which medium format camera was responsible for the Blue Swallow Motel shot at around 0:12? Love the colors and low light it does, and if I'm gonna pick a single camera to get started on, that one seems like an AMAZING OPTION
Haha, realistically that can be taken on any camera. That was taken on my Mamiya 7, but that camera is $3k. That being said, with a tripod and softening filter, you can easily generate something similar
I prefer the RB over the RZ, but contextually. In a perfect world, sure the RZ is better, but price, being manual, easier to fix, etc makes me favor the RB as well.
@@metalfingersfilm yup! They have an 80mm lens that’s pretty good for starters. Some models feature a cold shoe as well as a leaf shutter with a shutter speed up to 1/500, and a min. aperture of f/22 and max. f/3.5. It was my first medium format camera with full controls and the prices on them haven’t changed in over 10 years!
I'm pretty sure you posted some 6x7 frames for 6x6, just saying, I think you stated the obvious, you just name mostly the top of the line,barring couple of really expensive ones, when analog photography was the only game in town, I started with 30 $ camera (lubittel) which the images rival any one of the listed brands, but thank you very much for the efforts and the posting.
Yeah, I think some of them were cropped from 6x6? Which in retrospect is weird, but the show goes on, haha. Also, yeah, I could easily go down a rabbit hole with obscure cheaper cameras, but realistically, I want to recommend things that are accessible, affordable, repairable, and there's a lot of content online about them to learn on. Thanks for watching!
Medium format will change your life especially if you do your own prints in the darkroom. The amount of detail you see it's mind blowing...
Another camera to mention is the 2x3 crown graphic. You can get one for only $250-300. This medium format rangefinder camera features tilt, shift, and rise capabilties, removeable backs from 645 to 6x9. Camera is pretty small considering it can do 6x7 and 6x9, the only downside is the lens selection.
My first medium format camera was a Mamiya C330 with a 105mm lens that I purchased several years ago. I like it and the images that I can produce with it. You are right about TLR cameras being great conversation starters as they are not something regularly seen these days.
The C330 is my first and only medium format camera. The Hasselblad film is the only other film camera I want.
Same I run a c330 and my 35mm is a om1
They were hardly used back in early 90s when I was using mine for portraits.
@@hawkcole2395 I also have an om1 and bought a kowa 6 instead of the c330. I love it
My first medium format camera was a Yashicamat 124G that I got new in 1978 ... I then taught basic photography at a summer camp in 1979 and ended up with a Diana to use and teach the kids to use. Somewhere in the 1990s I went down the Soviet rabbit hole and got Lubitels, Kiev 60s, Salyuts and Kiev 88s ... in the last decade I got a Mamiya 6, Mamiya C3 and Mamiya RB67 ... not to mention dozens of old folders that take either 120 or 620 ... I tend to cycle through them all and have yet to have a bad experience shooting and processing the film!!!
I wish I could have liked this video twice! Thanks so much for putting these interesting cameras together and giving some interesting points about each one. I've looked at many medium format cameras but could never pick one.
This is a super useful list! Being a big cheapskate, I have a Konica Pearl II, which is a 6x4.5 folder. The Olympus in this list was a close second choice, but I think the uncoupled rangefinder would've been a big annoyance. My Pearl is already super slow to shoot.
I started on a Kiev60 with a Zeiss lens. The lens ist truely GOAT, razor sharp open and the most juicy bokeh ever! But I just didn't get warm with it, its special quirks like the controls just didn't fit me at all. At some point I randomly found a Fujica GM670 and decided to switch systems. Best decision ever! ;) It's one of the nicest rangefinders you'll ever try and the lenses in this particular system are very very good too! I enjoyed that cam so much that I got a G690 for even bigger negatives an more versatility. Those Texas Leicas are truely underated and underpriced for what they offer!
I fell in love with my Yashica Mat 124 G. I took it for a spin at 6 Flags years ago. I enjoyed everything about it. It made me use my photographic eye more. I loved the square format so much, I bought a Hasselblad 2000 FCM. Later I purchased another Hasselblad at a trade show. My customers loved the 10x10 and 5x5 prints.
My first was a Mamiya 645 that I bought back in the 80's...still have it, and it still works like new. Added an RZ-67 boat anchor several years ago, and now shoot 6x17 on 120 film with a Shen Hao view camera. Still shoot plenty of digital, but medium format is a cut above since you really can't 'spray and pray'...proper metering is much more critical and satisfying.
Started my medium format journey with Pentax 645 but not too long I found out about the RB67 I got it almost immediately, I've only had the camera for a year but it's my favorite camera out of all my collection
*WHEN* to use medium format, now that’s an interesting point. Curious to hear your take on that and guidance 🎞️
The answer is always and anywhere - Pro here 35 years - started at 16 on a 35mm - bought 1st MF at 18 never looked back
I'm just waiting to get my impulse bought Pentax 6x7 back from the repair guy. It needed a lotta work done... But in the end I'll be very happy to use it because I'm also getting a brightscreen installed, which will make it very appealing to use.
Got into medium format on the Pentacon Six, massive lens selection from both Carl Zeiss Jena and Arsenal, prices for serviced bodies are pretty reasonable, and you can fit 13 shots on a roll consistently if the frame spacing is properly calibrated.
I purchased a 150$ Kiev60. It’s funky- built well, zeiss glass, has spacing issues sometimes, but is fun cause I’m not a professional!
Great video🎉🎉🎉
I love you, garlicburger
Yeah, kievs, araxes and salutes are pretty cool, but mechanically they're such a hassle, I went through 2 soviet medium format cameras and im not really a big 120mm shooter. That reliability was fine in the 2010s when you could just buy another one for the price of a beer bottle, but now those things are like 100-200 bucks even in my post-soviet wasteland, seems like they're going extinct, get em while you can
Where did you get it?
@@virtual_classic Camera shop local to me. Was 2nd or 3rd hand. looks like some are still floating around the web!
I owned a full service photo studio starting back in 1973. For events I used a Mamiya Press and Mamiya Universal both 6x7 cameras. For studio work my dealer talked me into Hassleblad which spent more time getting serviced than shooting. Traded it in 1975 for the RB67 which I still have and still works like a champ. For field work I also switched to Mamiya 6x4.5 system that I no longer have which I regret. mamiya lenses were special.
I love my RB67! My favorite camera I own by far. The size and weight is so worth it to me cause I genuinely have more fun shooting that camera than any others.
Yeah, I need to break mine out more and rip some portraits, I think! What lens do you have?
@@metalfingersfilm do it! I use the 90mm f/3.5. Such a solid lens.
Hello! My first and so far the only one medium camera is Lubitel 166, and yes its definitely not the best camera in the world but still love it. By the way cool channel!Greetings from Ukraine.
I haven't used one yet, but have seen surprisingly great things from them!
The flaws are what makes it art!
I started with a Bronica s2a... but I have issues with its reliability, and with finding someone to service it. It's currently sitting on a shelf. I was then gifted a Kodak Box Brownie. These are brilliant starters. They're light. They're reliable. They take great photos. This last weekend I just picked up an Ensign 820 from a camera fair. It's a solid folding camera. I've just got my first roll of film in it rn so I can't say anything about the image quality. Probably the worst thing about the Ensign so far is the zone focusing. That's taking a bit to get used to. It has a process a lot closer to a LF camera with the need to cock the shutter on the lens before taking the photo. I think I'm moving towards using my tripod more with this one. Cheers
Cool video. I started medium format with a Mamiya RZ67 - incredible camera. The bought the Texas Leica, Fuji GW690III. Awesome. The got a Bronica SQ-A cause it's smaller tha the RZ67. Would recommend Yashica 24 with the 120 back, it's a gem. Also the Voitländer Perkeo II is a super cool small size 6x6 ideal for travel, medium format doesn't get smaller than that. Happy shooting!
Bought my C220 about 19.5 years ago with the 80mm. Love it. Also have a RB67 with the 127. Earlier this year I found a Minolta Autocord early version with the non standard shutter speeds. I will need to send that out for a full CLA, handles nice but I can see why the C220 cost more.
so I have mamiya 645 pro (6x4.5) and I must say - an excellent camera! got if for like $700 but is totally worth it.
My first medium format camera, the Pentax 6x7, the perfect camera for anyone moving from 35mm (as I did), the handling is so familiar and the quality is really very top notch, I can compare it with certain Zeiss lens medium format cameras and if anything, many of the lenses in the Pentax system are better. Basically, it is a great camera and it is still reasonably priced when compared to certain others. Film loading is a bit of a pain until you get used to it but no worse and actually better than many medium format cameras. Cannot praise it too highly.
Since I’m a Pentax aficionado, I’ve always been attracted to the 6x7 and would like own the somewhat legendary 105mm f2.4
Agreed, Pentax 6x7 is amazing, a great friend of mine uses it religiously, and from both our experiences, rarely disappoints.
My first medium-format camera was a Hasselblad 503CX. It changed my life. ✨
I like the confidence when you said bronica c220.
when it comes to film medium format, TLR cameras are what first comes to my mind and 6x6 format. I am shooting now with Yashica LM, really really enjoying it. Before that I had Yashica-12, but it had some small issues, attempted to fix it, wasn't anything difficult but the small parts said hell no, and went flying God knows where. So know I have Yashica-12 with broken shutter.
Know I am looking to upgrade the viewfinder with brighter focusing screen and a new mirror on Yashica LM.
I still can’t find a reason to ditch my Pentacon Six. Got a full set zeiss lenses and viewfinders for less than any camera here mentioned
Also have one, sadly one curtain got 2 small holes so I’m still searching for repair shop.
I also have a P6, and I would say the Zeiss Jena lenses make it special and maybe superior compared to these mentioned here. But, of course, the P6 has only the bare features required, and there are cameras with more features. On the other hand the P6 is able to shoot 1/1000s which not all others are capable of.
That's a great camera, I like the more barebones approach!
*KIEV 60 has entered the chat*
I recently got one from my uncle I had repaired and love it. He bought it when it was brand new in germany
Great video. I have a Bronica ETRs (645) and a Yashica 124G (TLR).
One note if it hasn’t been mentioned: You said “Bronica C220” at 5:46. Shortly after you said it correctly (Mamiya C220) but thought I’d mention it. Great videos. 👍🏽
Haha yeah, I figured the on-screen text would be sufficient lololol. Which of those two that you own do you like shooting more?
I shoot an old ARGUS SUPER SEVENTY-FIVE and an ARGUS SEVENTY-FIVE, and they both take great photos! I also have a Kodak Reflex. (a true TLR). All of these are 620 film cameras, but it is SUPER EASY to modify the ends of the 120 spools to fit in a 620 camera. Just use a pair of large toenail clippers and clip off the outer ring of the ends of the plastic spools so it is the same size as the original old metal 620 spools. It is very easy to do.
The first medium format camera that I actually stuck with/enjoyed was my Kiev 6C. The ergonomics are a little unusual but don't bother me in the slightest, the 6C supposedly has less of the spacing issues and such that the 60 is often reported to have (and I've never had any spacing or mechanical issues with my 6C), and the soviet glass available for it is actually fantastic and reasonably cheap to say nothing of the Zeiss stuff
Some of those Kievs are so hit or miss! I've heard very polarizing opinions on them, haha
I have a Mamiya C220, bought new about 1975, 80mm, 55mm & 135mm lenses. Less used since I started using large format, but still very usable.
Started on my father's Rolleiflex (which I gave to my niece, and is still being used).
Which lens of those is your favorite?
@@metalfingersfilm has varied over time. Probably 80mm most used, 135mm the least. If I used the camera more, I might look for a 65mm.
started Medium Format photography with a Linhof Technika 6x9 in 1982. The camera was built 1956 and i got it as a present with three interchangeable lenses : 65mm, 105mm and 180mmm . One magazine for rollfilms (120 or 220 was added and later I bought a Polaroid back for using 667, 669 and BW Material with negatives, which is sadly not produced anymore. so I moved to Fuji FP 100 sheets which are costwise not affordable in todays offers. 140€ for 10 sheets does not make fun! in my professional career I shot with Hasselblads, Mamyas, and the Fuji GS 680...heavy beasts! Now in my retirement phase I bought 2 old Roleiflex SL66 bodies with 3 Lenses, four film magazines and start workshops for beginners in analogue photography. I still own the Linhof and it works properly until now, which shows the high precision of production in the 1950s. But it needs accurate handling and a lot of time. Slows down to : every shot has to be considered. No street photography camera!
Bought a Zeiss super ikonta iv for like $50 once, other than needing to tighten the film advance screw ever 3 shots it’s in real good condition
This was like a week before I bought a Zeiss contax iiia that just needed a cla for $35. That was a really good week for me
Graflex 2x3 junior SLR's or 2x3 Crown Graphics. They're super versatile and tanky cameras. They're just small and light enough to carry around casually
For a bigger neg shooting experience look out for the Voigtlander Bessa i or ii
6x9 entirely mechanical folder which will slip into the pocket of cargo pants, or even baggy jeans (tho not sitting down)
The i is viewfinder only; the ii is a coupled rangefinder, and usually quite a bit more expensive. Each come with multiple 105mm lens/shutter options including a ridiculously pricy unicorn. They originally all came with a 645 mask as well, but finding that with one is rare as hens teeth.
Good recommendation!! Shooting 6x9 off the bat would be tough imo, but fun nonetheless!
@@metalfingersfilm my other camera is a Mamiya c330; that whole “looking down into a back to front square image” tlr experience takes more getting used to than the “tiny view finder on a big folding camera”… there’s no such thing as “the perfect camera”, trade offs between each. I love the precision and versatility of lens choices with the C series, but can’t pretend i “really” love square format (or the weight).
The Voigtlander is a super “primitive” 70yo camera, but by removing a ton of choices and options it makes me really own every choice i make - if that makes any sense… and seeing your first 6x9 neg or slide on a light box… wow. It’s also way more protected and less delicate (when folded) than almost anything else I’ve owned.
For someone looking at making a jump from from 35 to 120, i really suggest they get an app like Viewfinder and preset in a few different format/lens combos and go out on a photo walk and see what appeals. It’s not the same as having the camera in hand, but it sure will help you work out if you “hate” square or 645. Nothing worse than spending ages trying to weigh up between different cameras only to find you choose something in a format you find hard to relate to.
Just started my photography journey last year 35 mm p&s and a digicam. Currently making a list of my go to slr camera but medium format is something I should focus sometime in future learning 35 atm. The one I’ve been drooling over is the ashi pentax 6/7 and the Fuji Fujica Fujifilm GS645S Camera Wide60 😊 beautiful cameras
Those are all great choices! Enjoy the journey!
I would also mention the Kowa cameras, very popular in Japan, less known in the states. My favorite is the Pentax 67 whitch I own along with 55mm, 90mm, 135 macro, and 200mm telephoto. I just need to find some film and get out there.
Hi five from Toronto, Canada. Well done! I’m looking forward to your epic journey
I keep looking at the Mamiya Press line. A lot of lenses, can shoot 6x7 or 6x9 depending on back. Giant beastie machines, but oddly tempting. Also, the fact that they typically have Seiko shutters is a great bit of camera-geek/watch-geek overlap. Often around $300.
One thing in my mind, however: shopping for medium format often lends itself to a wait and see. Check local classifieds, things like Craigslist and Facebook marketplace and such. Don’t rush, don’t press. Just wait, be patient (like you often have to be when shooting medium format). You might just find a good deal. I found someone selling a very nice TLR and a Nikon FM for $260. That was kind of hitting the mother load, but I’ve seen Pentax 67 at reasonable prices, Bronica ETRS, and more. Not often, maybe a tempting cameras every few months.
Great overview. I've use most of those cameras (except the RB67 and Olympus 6). The Autocord is a wonderful camera with a wonderful lens. Highly recommended. Also the Mamiya Six folder. Those came usually with Zuiko lenses, which unfortunately tend to have permanent deep haze which will definitely affect image quality. The better choice is to find one with the Sekor lens, which doesn't suffer from haze. One of my favorite folders is the Super Fujica Six, which tends to fly under the radar a bit, so it's still affordable. It's a more modern-looking (for 1957, anyway), easy to use 6x6 gem. I also still use and enjoy the Mamiya 645 1000s, which is built like a tank. And lately I've loved using the Bronica ETRS, which shoots 645. I also have the hard to find 135W back, which lets you take true panoramic shot on the camera using 35mm film (almost as wide as an Xpan). One that I have but haven't shot with yet, but that gets great reviews, is the Kodak Medalist II. It's a solid metal brick that shoots 6x9. Uses 620 film, but I had mine converted to take 120. You can also just use a dark bag and respool 120 film onto 620 spools.
Awesome! Great suggestions Andrew! Thanks for watching!
Let me also recommend the Super Fujica Six folding camera. Very capable rangefinder camera that falls in the sub $150 range
Great recommendation!
Your post processing is brilliant. The colors are so crisp. What method are you using? Thanks. 😀🥳
Ayyyyye I always love seeing people going to Tucumcari. My parents live there
A good TLR that is similar to the autocord is the meopta flexaret series, the V (5) notably. I have one and it's quite . Was made in what was still called Czechoslovakia
I started shooting medium format on a Fujica GW690 II. There's a few versions of the camera including some 6x7 and 6x8 variants. Only other recommendation would be a Bronica GS-1 if you can find one for a fair price. They're like a lighter Mamiya RB67 so long as you can handle the camera requiring a battery.
Do you ever find that 6x9 is too few of frames? I've been shooting 35mm more lately and having 36 exposures is so freeing, haha
I want a 6x7 camera eventually, but for now my only medium format camera is an Autocord. It’s extra awesome because I got it for $75 bc it was “broken”. Fixed the issues beside a light leak I’m chasing. That camera takes really high res gorgeous photos
Fixing a broken camera to then use is such a power move, great work!
Yashica MAT LM for me. Got it a few months ago for around $160 or something...cant get enough of it and excellent convo starter for sure
Hell yeah, that's so awesome!
nice the cabazon dinosaurs during the Pee Wee tribute paintjob
Major W for the Minolta autochord, most underrated camera I’ve shot.
If you like the Bronica S2/S2A, I would also recommend checking out the C/C2. Essentially the same camera, but the film loads directly into the body instead of with a detachable film back. This is way handier if you do not need to change film stocks mid roll- makes for a more compact body and eliminates the need for a dark slide!
not to mention the connection between the body and the film back has been known to be problematic in the S2 models. I experienced a bit of advance issues on one of my film backs because of this.
Good thinking! I think many times I get caught up with the features of the camera, despite many of them being faulty on these old cameras! Thanks for watching and commenting!
Great suggestions. I got started on the Bronica ETRS and also use the Fujica G690.
Awesome! Which do you prefer?
@@metalfingersfilm I have to admit, the Fujica G690 is my favorite! You only get 8 shots, but they are sharp, and the format allows for great detail.
...Try the smaller Graflex 2X3 ...Or an Ikoflex , one of my favourites.....
The Braun Nuremberg Gloria rangefinder is a fantastic it has a very fast Steiner 2.9 75 lens
yep, prices have gone nuts. If you buy an old secondhand one it is considered by many wise to factor in a CLA. Shutter speeds in particular can be really off.
I love my Mamiya RB67 and C330, they are amazing cameras
Seemingly everyone has two 120 cameras! Which do you prefer? and why?
Not knowing whether medium format would be something I would enjoy shooting I started out with a 240€ Kiev88 Hasselblad500 lookalike that was modified with a more durable cloth-shutter and a mirror lock up button. I then made a "Hasselblyat" Logo in Photoshop, glued it onto that thing and was happy with it. Mechanically it was far from perfect as the shutter would get stuck and stay open halfway through if you held it in a "wrong" angle or inadvertently touched the shutter dial or whatever. Lenses on these are great, nevertheless. I had the standard 80mm 2.8 and a 150mm 2.8 wich was just a massive chunk of glass and steel. Two years later I sold it for a real Hasselblad but I still miss it sometimes. You could just mindlessly toss it into your backback or trunk and just not worry about it getting a little roughed up... wouldn't do that to the Hasselblad.
Long story short: everyone should own a cheap, quirky medium format camera!
Insane Kenny Hoopla crossover event
My first medium format camera is a Yashica A. Good camera but easy to make mistakes. I always wanted a Pentax 6x7, so that was my next one. My go to lens is the Macro 130mm f4. 3rd M Format is the Yashica 124g. Nice camera but not my favorite and I don’t know why. Might be the whole twr viewer and focus system. Takes good pictures.
My first (and only) MF camera is the Mamiya 645 1000s. Paid ~500 EUR with two lenses and many accessories included. Thinking to move to a Mamiya 7ii or RB67 in the future.
Hell yeah, I loved my mamiya 645. I started with a 1000s as well. If you can swing it, the Mamiya 7 is hands down my favorite camera of all time.
Excellent video my man! I have a Yashica-A TLR on its way and this will be my first step into medium format! Much love from Tennessee🙏🏼
Thanks for watching Garrett! Enjoy the Yashica! I'm sure you'll start a lot of conversations with that in Tennessee!
hello folks. i had 2 questions if you have a minute:
1. i know you mention that medium format is not great for action or wildlife because of the speed. but what about for fashion and event photography? does the speed also become a concern there? i mean i never use burst shutter ever. but auto focus speed and clicking to capture quickly at each moment is important to my work.
2. if i find the things you mention in your video about the GFX100 useful for me, but my budget is only for the GFX50 - do you think ill still get those medium format perks with the 50? i'd be upgrading from a sony a7iii. the other option was going to be the a7v when it comes out soon (hopefully).
The moment I looked through the ground glass of my Yashica D it was game over, I was into medium format.
Hahaha, same with my initial Mamiya 645 waist lever viewfinder
I've got Kowa Super 66 and Fuji GW680III, dunno the prices now, but I've picked them up for around 800€/each (in perfect condition and serviced). Fuji is more comfortable to shoot in my opinion and Kowa is so heavy! Results are fantastic on both though.
Beautiful pictures in particular the end set.
Thanks for watching, Jaime!
I started with a Fuji GW690 III (Texas Leica) - excellent 6X9 images and a very sharp lens. No light meter. I got this for around $400. It showed signs of use, but worked perfectly. Only 8 shots per roll. It hurts. Learned how to be very selective with my shots and make sure they were "perfect"
A couple more. Kowa 6, Voitlander Perkeo, Super Ikonta B.
I have a Ricoh Ricohflex New Dia. Certainly very cheap, but well built and easy to use. It also makes for some nice photos.
Looks cool. Tons of "pretty good" TLRs out there seemingly.
Bronica S2A is a great camera, once you get past the operating issues that plague it, it becomes a great affordable option. If you want something little more modern I would recommend the SQ-a if you want 6x6 but any of the Bronicas are great. I shoot with an SQ-a that I got for $500 and the viewfinder and lens are so sharp and bright. MK1 Fuji GW690 is another affordable option, as well as the Pentax 645 or the Mamiya 645
The 645s are getting more expensive!! Kinda crazy, haha. The SQ-a is a monster, I love that thing!
@@metalfingersfilm Same! I have a Pentax 67 that rarely gets any use because the weight difference between the 2 is night/day and I prefer the WLVF too.
honestly suprised the koni omega didn't make the list, for under 200 dollars you get a super fast and sharp 6x7 rangefinder with some really innovative features.
I thought the same thing. I bought one for $125 in excellent condition and I’m still amazed by the images I get with it.
Sounds like a 2nd video is going to be in the works, haha.
tbf, I've talked about the koni omega in the past videos and didn't want to recycle too many cameras
The cameras are cheap-ish, but Portra 400 on 120 is like $1.40/click *before processing/scanning/printing* if you’re shooting 6x6. Out of control. 50% more than Instax.
Voigtlander Perkeo (with skopar) or Bessa 46/66 with heliar/skopar, Meopta flexaret, Moskva5, the mamiya six should be explicitly recommended with the sekor lenses, since those dont suffer from hazing as much as zuiko lenses in those cameras.
Great recommendations dude, I appreciate it! Really want to check out a Bessa
The Rolleicord TLR is the poor man’s Rolleiflex. They sell for between $200-$400 depending on the condition and lens. I’ve had one for a decade and have had no problems.
Great video dude! Super cool for me and my beloved S2A to be featured!
Thanks for being you, dude! Next time you're in CO, let's kick it!
@@metalfingersfilm I’m so down!
Bronica ETRS 645 size is a very good camera for medium format. Would like to get the S2A , maybe someday.
not recommend it, try for mamiya
The Seagull 203 is also nice ans affordable makes great sharp photos
I got my first medium format for 15 dollars a mint Yashica A. About a year ago I picked up a Fuji gw690ii for 300 love both
sheepish. winning
lmao sheeeeesh*
Kiev 88 or Kiev 60 with Volna-3 lens is the budget god!
You can buy a Koni-Omega in excellent condition with the 90mm for $125. 6x7 format and the 90mm is one of the best lenses I’ve used on 120.
Those Koni-Omegas are beast!
I would definitely put rolleicord on the list!
I got the Minoltacord as my first tlr and man for how cheap it is(was), it has one of the sharpest lenses on any camera i've ever used.
Ohhhh, I gotta check it out! DO you still own it?
@@metalfingersfilm no I don’t. Got interested in macro/closeup so I moved to the Mamiya c220😅
What about the Holga!? Basic toy camera but medium format.
I've got an RB67 and a wide angle pinhole Holga WPC. Completely different cameras, completely different shooting experiences, and completely different results.
Haha, I got in trouble with my opinion on the Holga in my tier list video. I think I should get one and shoot it for a video!
Fujica GW690 pretty straightforward and easy to use.
Wouldn’t recommend Bronica Zenza, too fiddly
Please try Beier Prezisa II rangefinder folder with the great Meyer Görlitz Trioplan 3.5 75 it makes Superlative phtos
For 6x6, my favourite is Yashica Mat (or Rolleicord, if you are lucky enough) and the Mamiya C system. Personally I'll stay away from most of the folding cameras because they are zone-focus only.
Yeah, the folding cameras are my personal jam, but they are cheap, haha
I own a Kiev 88, and a Mockba-5. They are amazing to shoot an reliable and cheap. 😊 Waiting for your beef...
Oooo nice!! Which do you prefer?
@@metalfingersfilm The Kiev for sure, but when I am traveling I prefer the more compact Mockba-5.
You missed the Rolleiflex’s cheaper sibling, the Rolleicord, you can pick up one for not a huge amount.
I got the Fuji GS645S. Not so cheap on eBay these days though.
My buddy has one and loves it, safe to assume you too?
@@metalfingersfilm It's great, but I treat it like a sick kid and should take it out more often. I feel like I'd break it if I was slighty rough with it. The total opposite of something like a Nikon F4.
My first (and only) medium format camera - Mamiya 645 1000S. Not the cheapest medium format out there, but not the most expensive either.
I don't think that you can buy 220 film. If I'm mistaken please let me know. I have a Mamiya RB67 with 3 film backs, one of which is for 220 and apparently can use 120.
Reflx Lab is making 220 film
I started taking photos about two years ago with a rb67 and now I just picked up the bronica ec for a hiking trip I’m going onfor the exact reason in the video, there was no way I wanted to hike for three days with the rb67. On the upside im getting a couple more frames out of the ec but one the downside it’s 6x6 so all the photos will be square
Yeah, I've toyed with brining the bronica on a hike. I think something >4 miles would be okay, but anything more than that or with elevation gain would be touggghhh (mores annoying af)
"why did I bring this giant ass camera" I would be pouting all the way up the trail, lol
RB67 body with the adapter P is probably $400, but it does not include the film back, lens and the waist level finder. The full camera kit will be about $800-1000
www.ebay.com/p/111133179?iid=375527583889
Where you seeing that?
@@metalfingersfilm That’s a good price. Considering the back is like $100 and the older 127mm lens is like $100 (this is not a green C or KL lens), assuming this copy of the 127mm does not have fog in it. This makes the body $200 with the adapter P.
@@metalfingersfilm My bad. The $400 for the body and adapter P is for the Pro SD model.
@@weizhang6979 All good, dude! Hard to keep track of it all, but yeah, thankfully you can get into RB for not toooooo bad!
@@metalfingersfilm I would say, a pro SD kit with a KL lens and Pro SD film back and waist level finder, if you can find one for $800, jump on it. I don’t need any more RB. I have three of them (one pro and two pro sd) hehe. I really like my RBs.
my first, third, and 6th, medium format cameras were RB67 lol
The c220 does not have a lens beyond 250mm please clarify
I’d like to know where you found these prices?!
Bronica S2A is one the greatest medium format cameras of all time, besides the focal plane shutter, it's superior to the Hasselblad 500 C in every way. I own a 500C/M and use my Bronica S2A over it most of the time. Better waist-level finder, a better stock screen, If you're not worried about flash, The Bronica S2A can mimic the 500C and I can barely tell the difference between negatives. For around 500 bucks you can get an entire S2A kit with an additional back, that's insane value for money. The only complaint I have is the back is fing annoying to seal properly. It's a lot of work to do light seals on an S2 Back, as opposed to the Hassy A12 is so simple a child could do it. There's tons of seal material in an S2 back from around the film plate to the dark slide area to the actual door on the back. It's not terribly difficult its just a few hours vs 10 minutes. There are a few ways to tell a Bronica is an S2A. There's a lot of confusion online about this and most of it is misleading. If the Bronica you're looking at has a BLACK plastic crank handle it's an S2A with improved gearing. If it's a chrome silver color it's an older S2 with softer gears. I have both and have treated cranking the same as my hassy and not pulling out the lever and cranking it in turns rather than using the pop out lever. It's less stressful on the mechanics this way.
S2A is a beaaaaast.
very good
Does anyone know which medium format camera was responsible for the Blue Swallow Motel shot at around 0:12? Love the colors and low light it does, and if I'm gonna pick a single camera to get started on, that one seems like an AMAZING OPTION
Haha, realistically that can be taken on any camera. That was taken on my Mamiya 7, but that camera is $3k. That being said, with a tripod and softening filter, you can easily generate something similar
My guy you think I’m the only one who prefers the RB over the RZ? I have the RZ and I might sell it and snag a RB
I prefer the RB over the RZ, but contextually. In a perfect world, sure the RZ is better, but price, being manual, easier to fix, etc makes me favor the RB as well.
And if you want a really really cheap TLR you can also get a Super Ricohflex for less than $100
Oh cool, never heard of this before! anything more you can tell me?
@@metalfingersfilm yup! They have an 80mm lens that’s pretty good for starters. Some models feature a cold shoe as well as a leaf shutter with a shutter speed up to 1/500, and a min. aperture of f/22 and max. f/3.5. It was my first medium format camera with full controls and the prices on them haven’t changed in over 10 years!
I love my Yashica 635. First MF film I got and adore it
I'm pretty sure you posted some 6x7 frames for 6x6, just saying, I think you stated the obvious, you just name mostly the top of the line,barring couple of really expensive ones, when analog photography was the only game in town, I started with 30 $ camera (lubittel) which the images rival any one of the listed brands, but thank you very much for the efforts and the posting.
Yeah, I think some of them were cropped from 6x6? Which in retrospect is weird, but the show goes on, haha. Also, yeah, I could easily go down a rabbit hole with obscure cheaper cameras, but realistically, I want to recommend things that are accessible, affordable, repairable, and there's a lot of content online about them to learn on. Thanks for watching!
my first medium format was a rb-67 for 219$ in 2019
Yashica 124, Fuji Super SIX, All fuji 645, Pentax 645, Mamiya AFd 645..........