I had a 2.8F and used it quite a bit along with a 3.5E. I noted the prices on used market for the 2.8 and had to let it go. Collected a small fortune and bought another 3.5. I don't miss the 2.8. You get a heavier camera, thinner wallet and an added one-half f stop. GREAT VIDEO!!!
one thought, the 2.8 thing is mainly due to the fact we, as shooters know it has a meter, thats why its so popular, and that we can use it in lower light. Another point in the 2.8 's favour is that we KNOW its a 6x6 and 120 format, not the obscure 4x4 or 127/620 formats, which we cant get film for today {2024} ; thats another big decision to get the 2.8 E\F models.
Damn it Max, you did it to me AGAIN!! First it was Canon P, then the Intrepid, now I went and bought a superb 2.8F and am loving it. My next one will be the Pen-F thanks to your fantastic and well-done videos. I probably speak for everyone here, when I say that you channel is one of THEE-BEST out there. Keep up the great work!
Awww, thank you so much. Glad to hear you enjoy the channel and even bought a couple of cameras because of it. Makes me happy to read that you enjoy shooting the cameras. Cheers, Max
Do not hesitate, Max, more book reviews, please. It is a delicate moment for the culture of the book and the book industry, even more when editors are reluctant, more and more, to publish photography books. Laterally, in the process of doing book reviews you will defend the importance of printing as the ultimate result of the film photographic process. I am sure Gerhard Steidl would be agree to it ;-)
Thanks for the review of this fine camera. I have owned mine for close to sixty years and it shows a lot of wear because it was my workhorse. It was packed away for a while after my marriage to keep kids hands away from it. I recently got it and my 4X5 Crown Graphic out for servicing. I have tried digital and don't really like it. Too used to film's rendition of tonal transition between darks and lights. I just discovered your channel and intend to see more of your work. Think I will run a few rolls thru before I have the servicing. The Metro Light Rail from end to end is calling here in the Phoenix, Arizona area allowing me to go hands free and only $2 since being a senior citizen allows some perks. Oh yeah just to mention I bought the Rollie for $125 at a camera store's Dutch Auction all those years ago. With reasonable care they last forever.
Such a well produced video, and subject is my favorite camera of all time. I grew up on the lens side of my father’s Rolleicord in the late 1950s and into the 60s. I’ve had a f3.5F last version 12/24 for something like 50-years and it is just a beautiful camera in every way. Construction/build is so solid and impeccable, the Zeiss Planar (or the Xenotar) are simply amazingly sharp and smooth, and of course the design is esthetically beautiful. It feels so right in the hands and handles naturally with great satisfaction. It’s not a compact 35mm camera, but not so big either for a day out or extended travel camera, and has the medium format wonder square 6x6 quality. Prices are ‘an investment’ and should probably have a quality over-haul by an experienced repair person, but worth it if you can appreciate all this camera is.
yes, Absolutely, I shoot hasselblads, so understand the 'workflow' differences, such a unique design imposes on the user, and for ROLLIEFLEX its different again, not the "goofy" left handed workflow us 500 c/m users are used to, its the tlr, and the fact the lens is fixed, so close up accessories have to be taken, and used, to do that work love that you covered it, they are so unique, nice to see the nuts and bolts about it.
I’m a big fan of your channel and your videos, especially this one. Watching it finally motivated me to get my grandfather’s Rolleiflex 3.5F CLA’d. I’m super excited to shoot it and I’m even taking it on a trip from the United States to Munich (like a little visit back to its home country). Thanks for making such quality content!
I love old camera reviews and shooting vids. There are so many out there - it would be cool to see a shoot with the old standard Rolleiflex. Looking forward to seeing more! Love photo book reviews as well. Great work!
As usual, a finely crafted, and well researched, visual tribute to a fine photographic instrument! I’m jealous that you live in such a historic and visually rich place! Future reviews of your fine photography library, would be wonderful… Thank so much…. Always a joy to watch you!
Hay guys. Loved the video. As a 'collector' having in excess of 70+ Rolleiflex, including three 2.8B's, two Tele's and a wide angle. I would strongly recommend 'The Classic Rolleiflex' by John Phillips. Sadly he has recently passed away but his book is a true insight into the Rolleiflex range.
Greetings from Havana, Cuba. Thanks for the video, Im starting with Rolleiflex after a short experience with Mamiya and Yashica TLR cameras. Can’t wait to see the results.
such a joy to browse across your review this evening. seeking a camera for my son to continue to explore his relationship with film and his chosen subject matter. thank you, it was a treat and wet my appetite to learn more about this format of camera.
What a great review Max! I own the 2.8c with the 80mm 2.8 Schneider & Kreunach Xenotar, but have yet to truly use it as an artists' tool. You explain the relevancy of why the Rolleiflex is so sought after rather nicely.
I own a 75mm f/3.5 Tessar, 75mm f/3.5 Planar, and 80mm f/2.8 Xenotar (needs CLA). There is nothing else like a Rollei TLR. They are magic, and never fail, plus the lens quality is spectacular.
Thanks for this video. It inspires me to want to use a very similar camera my stepdad fairly recently gave me, a Rolleicord Vb. I've shot a few frames for a maternity photoshoot I did with Ilford HP Plus 400. I am eager to shoot the remaining frames and develop to see how they turned out.
Wonderful video. You run almost the only channel that manages to review a camera in an informative an entertaining way and accompany it with great sample images. Oh yeah, book reviews please!
Loved the video. I used my late grandfather's Rolleiflex for a few years, but it had to go back to my uncle. A wonderful camera and your video did it justice.
What's up Max? I'm really glad you got a chance to use this camera on your Channel. I own a rolleiflex as well as a rolleicord, both with the same Schneider Xenar, as a matter of fact I did a thorough comparison review of them on my channel. After using these cameras even though it takes time to develop and scan and edit the images it's so much more enjoyable and I only use my digital cameras when practical. I really hope you get to do more videos with these cameras in practical use. Excellent job
Hello Ray. I just saw your video and its excellent. Great stuff and I am looking forward to seeing more. I am sure the topic Rollei hasn't found an end in our channel. So stay tuned. Best regards, Greg from analog insides.
Ian Thomas Hello and Thank you for taking the time to check it out and comment. You and Max are raising the bar on film Photography for all other creators. Respect
When I sold all my film cameras in order to start the digital track, I kept a Rollei 2.8 and a Yashica Mat 124G. Could never get rid of them. Your review of the 3.5 was excellent.
Another great review Max. As I'm seriously considering buying a quality Medium Format camera, this review of the Rolleiflex looks very intriguing. So many great ones to choose from...
I think I've commented before on this video, I've certainly watched it several times. Your reviews are always informative and stylish, and worth multiple views. Fanboy could listen to you pronounce "Franke und Heidecke" quite frequently. You and Greg do a wonderful job. Andy
Funny coincidence that you posted this marvelously edited (as usual) video about the Rolleiflex, as I just got one of the same series as Greg's from a renowned North German webshop, more known for selling films, chemistry etc. I can understand why your friend Greg was smiling every time he took a picture, because this camera simply makes you smile. It is like a perfect working mechanical watch, and my trusty Yashica mat 124G feels like a tin box compared to this camera. That being said, if one inspects the pictures very(!) closely, the Rolleiflex pictures tend to be a bit softer at the edges (like softish). So no need for any lucky owner of a Yashica to think his camera would take inferior pictures. The overall look of the pictures is different, though. Those of the Yashica have a more "technical" look, those of the Rollei have a somehow "warmer", "inviting" look (it is difficult to describe precisely). I like those from the Rollei better (perhaps a matter of taste or "new toy joy")... And yes the shutter is very silent (practically inaudible.) BTW, and because you asked: I like books about cameras, too. But I think it would be difficult to present them. If you or your friend have any interesting and rare book about photographers, that would be more interesting (like those Ted Forbes presented on his channel).
The only indispensable camera in my collection is a Rollei E3 (with a Schneider lens). Everything that you say about these wonderful cameras rings true with my experience. It’s hard to imagine anything to add to your account and, as always, the photos are terrific. Thanks for taking the trouble to make the video. PS Book reviews are an excellent idea. I look forward to them.
Superb video, your method of review is balanced and also superbly and informatively produced, I've just got to your channel, and I'm gripped by it. Nice to see reviewing of old tech. Thankyou
Great review / history. I have a 3.5F that was my father's main camera in the 1970s (apart from a brief foray with a Pentax 6x7, but too heavy so came back to the Rollei). I still use it when I can, and love the quality, feel and easy of use. The light meter doesn't work (who cares), but otherwise reliable and accurate. I love the EV exposure setting method. A camera I will never sell, both for sentimental and photographic reasons.
The quality in which you bring this review is amazing. Relaxed and concrete information. You’ve got a new follower ;-) I will soon have my 2,8D and 3,5 T. Can’t wait to conquer the streets . Great job ! Hope to hear/ see similar reviews. Congratulations from Belgium ! 10 points ;-)
I'm about to receive a Rolleiflex for my birthday and can't wait to take it out. This was a very enjoyable video, unlike others that don't show the actual cameras being used. I'm a huge fan of Vivian Maier and hope to capture some shots in her style.
Great review as always. Love the format of the different reviews and the format of the channel. I would be fun to see you do a review of the Canon A1 - also sort of a "game changer" in the history of cameras. Let me know if you ever going to visit Copenhagen. I'll show you around and point out some great photo location - and you can borrow my Canon A1 and make the review.
Oh wow! Thanks so much for your kind comment and your offer. I'll certainly let you know if I visit Copenhagen. And yes, we might do a review of the Canon A1 at some point.
The images are so very pleasing to the eye! I did take a closer look at the Rolleiflex 3.5F as you suggested, it goes on Amazon for $2300. Looks like it is out of my budget range. Fantastic review and demonstration, good sir.
Rick Mentore Hi Rick, the 3.5F is more sought after than other 3.5 models but it can still be found for less than that. You will find cheaper prices on eBay and even in camera stores that specialise in used equipment. In the UK it is possible to pick up a 3.5 (I've seen the 3.5E and 3.5F) for sale at a bricks and mortar camera shop for £700. The 2.8 models I have seen for sale in really nice condition and fully CLA'd for about £1500. Good luck finding a camera!
For the 3.5F, Rolleiflex made available the Mutar Wide add-on lens (.7x) and the Mutar Tele add-on lens (1.5x). Yes, using them increases camera weight, but pictures remain top notch without purchasing another camera.
Probably one of the most important cameras ever made. I have never used one, but I still have a Yashica Mat 124G. Good camera. And it was fun to see the Citizen Automatic Divers watch. I have one.
I loved it, thanks again. Never owned one - only a Rolleicord (mine I think from the 1950s). But wow, the quality is fantastic. I have quite a few TLRs, but the itch is still there, to get a Rolleiflex.
I like your videos. They are well thought out as well as artistic. I used to travel to Erlangen on business and I spent two years living in Darmstadt. I miss Germany.
Beautiful video. I own a Rolleiflex MX-EVS with a Zeiss Tessar lens, and a Rolleicord Vb, which has a Schneider Kreuznach lens. They're both wonderful cameras, and their respective lenses produce excellent photos. While the Vb is less convenient to use -- the film winding crank doesn't cock the shutter, setting aperture and shutter speed is more of a pain, and so on -- I prefer it over the Rolleflex because it's 100 grams lighter.
Get a Rolleiflex T. It weighs about the same as your Rolleicord Vb but has the standard winding/shutter cocking lever. With a simple accessory, the 16 Mask, you can get 16 6x4.5 format shots on a roll of film.
Great video. Have been looking at this camera after using a friend's display piece Yashica Mat 124G - also a nice TLR. Wurzburg looked nice - been there many times.
This video made me want to get out one of my TLRs and get outside to shoot a roll or two. Unfortunately in South Florida it's so hot today that I think the streets are melting! Maybe later in the day when it cools down to 90F. I don't have a Rollei but I do have a Yashica 124 and several Mamiya 330's. Thanks for the video.
It actually doesn't have bulb mode but I have found you can set it to any of the green numbers on the shutter speed dial and it will effectively work the same as bulb. One camera I won't ever sell.
A friend of mine had one of these cameras and he let me borrow it to do some snow scene shots. I took photographs of my cape cod colonial house covered in snow under a bright blue sky using Ektachrome 100 film. I was stunned by the color highlights and the contrast on these slides. The camera was so quiet compared to the usual SLR that I wondered if the shutter was working.
It would be interesting to watch a review on the differences between the Rolleiflex models, C, D, E and F. I have the D model. The image quality that I get from the D model is good but it's not in the same class as a Hasselblad Zeiss lens combo. When I take it in public I get a lot of comments. A TSA agent held up a line of people asking me questions about it! I will have to try a roll of Ektar in mine this summer.
Another excellent and very informative video. I adore my Rolleiflex 3.5F, probably the medium format camera I use the most. Brilliant Zeiss optics too. Many thanks!
I just purchased a Rolleiflex 3.5F/75 2853393 made in Germany lens SCHNEIDER in near mint condition.only the light meter doesn't work. My question which lens hood should I buy for it,,,,
I absolutely loved this video Max. Keep it up. I am interested in technical aspect of shooting film. I have been having issues in metering for film. I would like to get some insights into that aspect. Maybe you can do a video on 'How to shoot Film.'
Great video. I think the book reviews are an excellent idea. I've never been able to afford a Rolleflex, but I do have a Yashica Mat 124 G that is a lot of fun.
Edward, I’ve shot with both. I shot for a while on my father’s Rolleiflex 2.8f until the focus started going weird. A CLA quote was pretty jaw dropping so I picked up a YashicaMat 124 for less than half of the quote to repair the Rollei. The Yashica has been going strong ever since. And I dare say the quality of the images is better than the Rollei ever produced. Odd.
As an owner of two Rolleiflex cameras I can say that every model has its own character. My 2.8C produces smooth and silky images with beautiful bokeh, yet sharp and contrasty when stopped down, while 3.5F is striking with the crispiest sharpness and definition even wide open.
Many of Heinrich Hoffman's war time photographs were taken on a Rollei and remain lovely examples of the genre. I use mine for transport photographs and have illustrated most of my 30+ books with Rollei photographs. Still love the old battleship!
This is a really nice video. You guys always seem to find pristine, museum-like cameras and this 3.5F is no exception. It looks like it just rolled off the assembly line.
This is the way to make camera reviews - thanks for sharing! I personally also like the 2.8C (most beautiful bokeh) and D models. When it comes to bright screens I personally also like the much cheaper post-war Ikoflexes. They have a sort of ground glas similar to the Leicaflexes (and these would be the cameras I would suggest seeing a review about, if I may mention that. The SL or the first are so unbelievably cheap right now. Check out the Macro-Elmarit 60 and the 90s, cron or Elmarit, both great...) Really enjoying your videos!
Senti mental, we already considered to do a review on the early Leicaflex cameras. I have them all and it would be a pleasure to do a video on these great cameras. Cheers, Greg
I love my 2.8f. It is difficult to use sometimes, but I love it anyway. One important caveat: these are not tripod-friendly cameras. The center of gravity is high due to the viewing lens, and the whole thing can be blown over on a windy day. You'd be surprised.
Is there a difirrince in the quility of the Pictures between the sl66 and the tlr? In case of sharpness and clarity ect? I am thinking of sell my tlr for the sl66.
Still my favourite camera but 120 film is very expensive and hard to get in the UK. My 3.5 is fairly old altho I cannot date it - many photographs have been used in my books. If you can run to book reviews this would be very interesting - in my case Contax/Leica/Rollei histories always interest me. One has to wonder where photography might have gone were it not for WW2 and/or the rise of Japanese photography. My old favourite - long stolen - was a camera marketed by Dr. Adox of that marvellous KB17 film, also long gone alas! Good luck with your videos - wish you would show more of your public transport.
I really enjoyed this review along with your XD-7, RZ67 and Mamiya 645 reviews. I love seeing BTS footage of you using the cameras at shoots. I'm not sure I'd be into book reviews. But I do miss the Story Behind the Shoot episodes :)
Thanks for your kind feedback, Don. I really appreciate it. There will be some "Story behind the Shoot" episodes again over the summer/fall if everything works out. But these are really difficult to make and require lots of planning. As I'm a little short on time these days, I try to focus on doing good portrait sessions without necessarily filming them. But there will be more at some point.
I got the MX-EVS 3.5 version, and shot a roll of TX 400 BW, but got it back from development with light leaks on the side edges. Do I need to put in light seals on the film door?
Very nicely produced video. Thank you! I thoroughly enjoyed it. Especially as the Rolleiflex has been my favorite camera for some 15 years. And nice to hear someone correctly pronounce "Kreuznach" for a change! :-) Now sub'd.
Tiddleypidlei , these cameras are extremely rare and they are also tricky in handling and donˋt provide the relieabilty as the Rolleiflex. I guess thatˋs the reason why they never had a significant market share. Best regards, Greg
Ian Thomas I actually own a Zeiss Ikon Ikoflex 1a, I have yet to run any film through it as it needs a CLA. The handling is quite tricky at first but once you throughly read the Manuel it is actually quite easy. But as I said earlier, I have yet to run any film though it so my handling experience is just from “playing” around with camera.
Gentlemen, as a big fan of TLR cameras, I was wondering if you could do a review to look at the more affordable TLR options. In this excellent video you mentioned that you would not look at the Rolleicord at the moment, can you do a review on the Rolleicord and compare it to its 'bigger brother -the Rolleiflex' and alternatives such as the Yashica-Mat. Thank you
David Milton One of my first videos was a review of the Yashica Mat-124G. It’s a wonderful camera which I still own and use regularly. I can highly recommend it as a less expensive alternative to the Rolleiflex. Hope this helps.
@@AnalogInsights thank you. Yes I've seen it - I have a 1960 Yashica Mat which has many similarities to the Rolleiflex, but with an internal film advance which is similar to the Rolleicord. My question was more a comparison to "how much better is the Rolleiflex to it cheaper alternatives"? Based on your review I purchased a Rollei 35...which is fantastic...so I am wondering if it is worth purchasing a Rolleiflex but wondered if I would notice a real difference to the Mat.
I used one of the Japanese imitations, the Yashica 12, not quite as good a camera, but a good enough for the college student I was at the time. Wonderful video.
Hi there! can you explain a little bit how to read the metering on the rolleiflex? for example why there are 2 needles and what does the red area mean? Thanks!
Press photographers loved the fact they could be focused at eyelevel using the clever mirror hood. On the back of the hood are two viewing apertures one above the other. Fold the direct vision window down, this has a underneath mirror. Focus through the bottom widow and then shift your eye up to the top direct vision finder and shoot. If you look at 1950s Press photographers, they are all doing it. Doesn't get a mention here, that's why I commented. By the by Schneider had superior contrast. I was a press photographer back then. Contrast was as important as sharpness. Schneider Xenotar lenses had both. Wedding phographers preferred the Planar and Press phographers preference was usually Xenotar, apart from the junior staff photographers who would be issued with Xenar equipped Rolleicords. Tough little beasts the Rolleicords, at 5.6 and f8 everything was sharp.
donov mayer Thanks for your kind feedback. The video descriptions usually feature how the films were scanned and developed. In this case, it was done by my trusted professional lab MeinFilmLab.de. They’re generally doing a fantastic job and I can highly recommend their service.
Great video! I know very little about TLR's, but I know Rollieflex are among if not the best. I thoroughly enjoyed your review. There is such a "thereness" in medium format photographs that 35MM just can't quite capture. I have wondered how you scan your 35MM photos to digital and I of course wondered how these MF photos were scanned in as well. Whatever process you use seems to work very well. Maybe that could be an episode? My suggestion for a future episode would be a review on the original Nikon F camera. As the first system camera and of course used heavily thoughout the 1960's, I feel it has enough of a history to warrant a review. I am also up for book reviews, except the problem I see is most of the books on Rollei appeared to be in German, which I unfortunately, do not speak. I am going to check out the "New York in the 60's" book, however. Thanks again for your wonderful reviews.
Great video. I want to want one of these, I really do, but I just can't see what it would give me that I don't already have with my Hasselblad or Mamiya 6. I guess I'll have to try one!
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
I believe this is the 10th time I have watched this video. It is so well thought out, informative, & entertaining, I keep returning to it over & over.
I had a 2.8F and used it quite a bit along with a 3.5E. I noted the prices on used market for the 2.8 and had to let it go. Collected a small fortune and bought another 3.5. I don't miss the 2.8. You get a heavier camera, thinner wallet and an added one-half f stop. GREAT VIDEO!!!
one thought, the 2.8 thing is mainly due to the fact we, as shooters know it has a meter, thats why its so popular, and that we can use it in lower light.
Another point in the 2.8 's favour is that we KNOW its a 6x6 and 120 format, not the obscure 4x4 or 127/620 formats, which we cant get film for today {2024} ; thats another big decision to get the 2.8 E\F models.
Damn it Max, you did it to me AGAIN!! First it was Canon P, then the Intrepid, now I went and bought a superb 2.8F and am loving it. My next one will be the Pen-F thanks to your fantastic and well-done videos. I probably speak for everyone here, when I say that you channel is one of THEE-BEST out there. Keep up the great work!
Awww, thank you so much. Glad to hear you enjoy the channel and even bought a couple of cameras because of it. Makes me happy to read that you enjoy shooting the cameras. Cheers, Max
Do not hesitate, Max, more book reviews, please. It is a delicate moment for the culture of the book and the book industry, even more when editors are reluctant, more and more, to publish photography books. Laterally, in the process of doing book reviews you will defend the importance of printing as the ultimate result of the film photographic process. I am sure Gerhard Steidl would be agree to it ;-)
This brings back memories of a year I spent in Germany in the late 1970's with my Rolleiflex 3.5F in a small town between Stuttgart and Heilbronn
Thanks!
Thanks for the review of this fine camera. I have owned mine for close to sixty years and it shows a lot of wear because it was my workhorse. It was packed away for a while after my marriage to keep kids hands away from it. I recently got it and my 4X5 Crown Graphic out for servicing. I have tried digital and don't really like it. Too used to film's rendition of tonal transition between darks and lights. I just discovered your channel and intend to see more of your work. Think I will run a few rolls thru before I have the servicing. The Metro Light Rail from end to end is calling here in the Phoenix, Arizona area allowing me to go hands free and only $2 since being a senior citizen allows some perks. Oh yeah just to mention I bought the Rollie for $125 at a camera store's Dutch Auction all those years ago. With reasonable care they last forever.
Such a well produced video, and subject is my favorite camera of all time. I grew up on the lens side of my father’s Rolleicord in the late 1950s and into the 60s. I’ve had a f3.5F last version 12/24 for something like 50-years and it is just a beautiful camera in every way. Construction/build is so solid and impeccable, the Zeiss Planar (or the Xenotar) are simply amazingly sharp and smooth, and of course the design is esthetically beautiful. It feels so right in the hands and handles naturally with great satisfaction. It’s not a compact 35mm camera, but not so big either for a day out or extended travel camera, and has the medium format wonder square 6x6 quality. Prices are ‘an investment’ and should probably have a quality over-haul by an experienced repair person, but worth it if you can appreciate all this camera is.
yes, Absolutely, I shoot hasselblads, so understand the 'workflow' differences, such a unique design imposes on the user, and for ROLLIEFLEX its different again, not the "goofy" left handed workflow us 500 c/m users are used to, its the tlr, and the fact the lens is fixed, so close up accessories have to be taken, and used, to do that work love that you covered it, they are so unique, nice to see the nuts and bolts about it.
I’m a big fan of your channel and your videos, especially this one. Watching it finally motivated me to get my grandfather’s Rolleiflex 3.5F CLA’d. I’m super excited to shoot it and I’m even taking it on a trip from the United States to Munich (like a little visit back to its home country). Thanks for making such quality content!
I love old camera reviews and shooting vids. There are so many out there - it would be cool to see a shoot with the old standard Rolleiflex. Looking forward to seeing more! Love photo book reviews as well. Great work!
As usual, a finely crafted, and well researched, visual tribute to a fine photographic instrument!
I’m jealous that you live in such a historic and visually rich place!
Future reviews of your fine photography library, would be wonderful…
Thank so much…. Always a joy to watch you!
I just recently purchased a Rolleiflex automat and I am very much enjoying it. It is a joy to use.
Hay guys. Loved the video. As a 'collector' having in excess of 70+ Rolleiflex, including three 2.8B's, two Tele's and a wide angle. I would strongly recommend 'The Classic Rolleiflex' by John Phillips. Sadly he has recently passed away but his book is a true insight into the Rolleiflex range.
70+??! Wow, you should build an altar, sir.
Greetings from Havana, Cuba. Thanks for the video, Im starting with Rolleiflex after a short experience with Mamiya and Yashica TLR cameras.
Can’t wait to see the results.
such a joy to browse across your review this evening. seeking a camera for my son to continue to explore his relationship with film and his chosen subject matter. thank you, it was a treat and wet my appetite to learn more about this format of camera.
What a great review Max! I own the 2.8c with the 80mm 2.8 Schneider & Kreunach Xenotar, but have yet to truly use it as an artists' tool. You explain the relevancy of why the Rolleiflex is so sought after rather nicely.
A great video about a GREAT Camera. I've been shooting a 3.5 Schneider MX-EV since the 70's. It continues to be my favorite.
I own a 75mm f/3.5 Tessar, 75mm f/3.5 Planar, and 80mm f/2.8 Xenotar (needs CLA). There is nothing else like a Rollei TLR. They are magic, and never fail, plus the lens quality is spectacular.
Thanks for this video. It inspires me to want to use a very similar camera my stepdad fairly recently gave me, a Rolleicord Vb. I've shot a few frames for a maternity photoshoot I did with Ilford HP Plus 400. I am eager to shoot the remaining frames and develop to see how they turned out.
Wonderful video. You run almost the only channel that manages to review a camera in an informative an entertaining way and accompany it with great sample images.
Oh yeah, book reviews please!
Loved the video. I used my late grandfather's Rolleiflex for a few years, but it had to go back to my uncle. A wonderful camera and your video did it justice.
What's up Max? I'm really glad you got a chance to use this camera on your Channel. I own a rolleiflex as well as a rolleicord, both with the same Schneider Xenar, as a matter of fact I did a thorough comparison review of them on my channel. After using these cameras even though it takes time to develop and scan and edit the images it's so much more enjoyable and I only use my digital cameras when practical. I really hope you get to do more videos with these cameras in practical use. Excellent job
Raychristofer your video was excellent too !
Fujimichel Thank your Michael. I think the key to a good video is reviewing items you're fired up about. Hopefully it won't be my last rollei review.
Hello Ray. I just saw your video and its excellent. Great stuff and I am looking forward to seeing more. I am sure the topic Rollei hasn't found an end in our channel. So stay tuned.
Best regards, Greg from analog insides.
Ian Thomas Hello and Thank you for taking the time to check it out and comment. You and Max are raising the bar on film Photography for all other creators. Respect
When I sold all my film cameras in order to start the digital track, I kept a Rollei 2.8 and a Yashica Mat 124G. Could never get rid of them. Your review of the 3.5 was excellent.
Another great review Max. As I'm seriously considering buying a quality Medium Format camera, this review of the Rolleiflex looks very intriguing. So many great ones to choose from...
I think I've commented before on this video, I've certainly watched it several times. Your reviews are always informative and stylish, and worth multiple views. Fanboy could listen to you pronounce "Franke und Heidecke" quite frequently. You and Greg do a wonderful job. Andy
Thank you for your kind comment. I really appreciate it. Glad to hear you like our little reviews. :)
Met buitengewoon plezier deze reportage gezien. Dank jullie wel!
Funny coincidence that you posted this marvelously edited (as usual) video about the Rolleiflex, as I just got one of the same series as Greg's from a renowned North German webshop, more known for selling films, chemistry etc. I can understand why your friend Greg was smiling every time he took a picture, because this camera simply makes you smile. It is like a perfect working mechanical watch, and my trusty Yashica mat 124G feels like a tin box compared to this camera.
That being said, if one inspects the pictures very(!) closely, the Rolleiflex pictures tend to be a bit softer at the edges (like softish). So no need for any lucky owner of a Yashica to think his camera would take inferior pictures. The overall look of the pictures is different, though. Those of the Yashica have a more "technical" look, those of the Rollei have a somehow "warmer", "inviting" look (it is difficult to describe precisely). I like those from the Rollei better (perhaps a matter of taste or "new toy joy")... And yes the shutter is very silent (practically inaudible.)
BTW, and because you asked: I like books about cameras, too. But I think it would be difficult to present them. If you or your friend have any interesting and rare book about photographers, that would be more interesting (like those Ted Forbes presented on his channel).
Thank you for your video! I just got my first Rolleiflex and I’m very excited to use it.
Sounds great. Have fun!
What a great video! I really enjoyed how you present the camera - and the books. Keep up the good work!
Mikkel B. Siebken Thanks so much. 🙏🏻
The only indispensable camera in my collection is a Rollei E3 (with a Schneider lens). Everything that you say about these wonderful cameras rings true with my experience. It’s hard to imagine anything to add to your account and, as always, the photos are terrific. Thanks for taking the trouble to make the video.
PS Book reviews are an excellent idea. I look forward to them.
Superb video, your method of review is balanced and also superbly and informatively produced, I've just got to your channel, and I'm gripped by it. Nice to see reviewing of old tech. Thankyou
Great review / history. I have a 3.5F that was my father's main camera in the 1970s (apart from a brief foray with a Pentax 6x7, but too heavy so came back to the Rollei). I still use it when I can, and love the quality, feel and easy of use. The light meter doesn't work (who cares), but otherwise reliable and accurate. I love the EV exposure setting method. A camera I will never sell, both for sentimental and photographic reasons.
The quality in which you bring this review is amazing. Relaxed and concrete information. You’ve got a new follower ;-) I will soon have my 2,8D and 3,5 T. Can’t wait to conquer the streets . Great job ! Hope to hear/ see similar reviews. Congratulations from Belgium ! 10 points ;-)
Thanks so much! We really appreciate your kind feedback. And glad to hear you'll soon have a 2,8D and 3,5T. Enjoy! :)
I'm about to receive a Rolleiflex for my birthday and can't wait to take it out. This was a very enjoyable video, unlike others that don't show the actual cameras being used. I'm a huge fan of Vivian Maier and hope to capture some shots in her style.
Great review as always. Love the format of the different reviews and the format of the channel. I would be fun to see you do a review of the Canon A1 - also sort of a "game changer" in the history of cameras. Let me know if you ever going to visit Copenhagen. I'll show you around and point out some great photo location - and you can borrow my Canon A1 and make the review.
Oh wow! Thanks so much for your kind comment and your offer. I'll certainly let you know if I visit Copenhagen. And yes, we might do a review of the Canon A1 at some point.
The images are so very pleasing to the eye! I did take a closer look at the Rolleiflex 3.5F as you suggested, it goes on Amazon for $2300. Looks like it is out of my budget range. Fantastic review and demonstration, good sir.
Rick Mentore Hi Rick, the 3.5F is more sought after than other 3.5 models but it can still be found for less than that. You will find cheaper prices on eBay and even in camera stores that specialise in used equipment. In the UK it is possible to pick up a 3.5 (I've seen the 3.5E and 3.5F) for sale at a bricks and mortar camera shop for £700. The 2.8 models I have seen for sale in really nice condition and fully CLA'd for about £1500. Good luck finding a camera!
Wow, I was able to find one at a local antique store for $175. Go check yours.
For the 3.5F, Rolleiflex made available the Mutar Wide add-on lens (.7x) and the Mutar Tele add-on lens (1.5x). Yes, using them increases camera weight, but pictures remain top notch without purchasing another camera.
Awesome I'm getting the same one my first Rollie. I put money down to buy it few more weeks it will be mine so can't wait.
Probably one of the most important cameras ever made. I have never used one, but I still have a Yashica Mat 124G. Good camera. And it was fun to see the Citizen Automatic Divers watch. I have one.
I loved it, thanks again. Never owned one - only a Rolleicord (mine I think from the 1950s). But wow, the quality is fantastic. I have quite a few TLRs, but the itch is still there, to get a Rolleiflex.
I like your videos. They are well thought out as well as artistic. I used to travel to Erlangen on business and I spent two years living in Darmstadt. I miss Germany.
Beautiful video. I own a Rolleiflex MX-EVS with a Zeiss Tessar lens, and a Rolleicord Vb, which has a Schneider Kreuznach lens. They're both wonderful cameras, and their respective lenses produce excellent photos. While the Vb is less convenient to use -- the film winding crank doesn't cock the shutter, setting aperture and shutter speed is more of a pain, and so on -- I prefer it over the Rolleflex because it's 100 grams lighter.
Get a Rolleiflex T. It weighs about the same as your Rolleicord Vb but has the standard winding/shutter cocking lever. With a simple accessory, the 16 Mask, you can get 16 6x4.5 format shots on a roll of film.
Great video. Have been looking at this camera after using a friend's display piece Yashica Mat 124G - also a nice TLR. Wurzburg looked nice - been there many times.
Excellent video, thank you and yes I would enjoy photo/camera book reviews .
Great episode, pics and story behind it. Keep it up!!!
If you have a chance, visit the huge photographic library at the Victoria & Albert Museum in London….amazing and beautiful space!
This video made me want to get out one of my TLRs and get outside to shoot a roll or two. Unfortunately in South Florida it's so hot today that I think the streets are melting! Maybe later in the day when it cools down to 90F. I don't have a Rollei but I do have a Yashica 124 and several Mamiya 330's. Thanks for the video.
That sounds wonderful. Just what I am always secretly hoping for. :)
It actually doesn't have bulb mode but I have found you can set it to any of the green numbers on the shutter speed dial and it will effectively work the same as bulb. One camera I won't ever sell.
Absolutely! Book reviews covering vintage cameras would be frickin amazing!
A friend of mine had one of these cameras and he let me borrow it to do some snow scene shots. I took photographs of my cape cod colonial house covered in snow under a bright blue sky using Ektachrome 100 film. I was stunned by the color highlights and the contrast on these slides. The camera was so quiet compared to the usual SLR that I wondered if the shutter was working.
It would be interesting to watch a review on the differences between the Rolleiflex models, C, D, E and F. I have the D model. The image quality that I get from the D model is good but it's not in the same class as a Hasselblad Zeiss lens combo. When I take it in public I get a lot of comments. A TSA agent held up a line of people asking me questions about it! I will have to try a roll of Ektar in mine this summer.
Another excellent and very informative video. I adore my Rolleiflex 3.5F, probably the medium format camera I use the most. Brilliant Zeiss optics too. Many thanks!
I just purchased a Rolleiflex 3.5F/75 2853393 made in Germany lens SCHNEIDER in near mint condition.only the light meter doesn't work. My question which lens hood should I buy for it,,,,
Great video, I have a Rolleiflex 2.8F and they are definitely worth getting if you want to get into medium format photography.
Wonderfully produced!! A beauties of storytelling. I so love this channel....
Nice video, learning new stuff every day! And Würzburg is such a beautiful city 😍.
I absolutely loved this video Max. Keep it up. I am interested in technical aspect of shooting film. I have been having issues in metering for film. I would like to get some insights into that aspect. Maybe you can do a video on 'How to shoot Film.'
Great video. I think the book reviews are an excellent idea. I've never been able to afford a Rolleflex, but I do have a Yashica Mat 124 G that is a lot of fun.
Edward, I’ve shot with both. I shot for a while on my father’s Rolleiflex 2.8f until the focus started going weird. A CLA quote was pretty jaw dropping so I picked up a YashicaMat 124 for less than half of the quote to repair the Rollei.
The Yashica has been going strong ever since. And I dare say the quality of the images is better than the Rollei ever produced. Odd.
I keep coming back to this video now that i have purchased a 3.5f. Very informative and useful. What size graduated filter holder should i look for?
As an owner of two Rolleiflex cameras I can say that every model has its own character. My 2.8C produces smooth and silky images with beautiful bokeh, yet sharp and contrasty when stopped down, while 3.5F is striking with the crispiest sharpness and definition even wide open.
I would really enjoy a review about the Pentax LX. Keep up with you work its great!!!
No problem. We will do so at the next oportunity. I have my LX just in service, but I think it will be back soon.
Excellent review. I also enjoyed the images of Festung Marienburg. I spent some time in Wurzburg, some 20 + years ago. Great city to photograph.
Many of Heinrich Hoffman's war time photographs were taken on a Rollei and remain lovely examples of the genre. I use mine for transport photographs and have illustrated most of my 30+ books with Rollei photographs. Still love the old battleship!
Yes! Books reviews soon please!! Great video!
Great accurate review of this wonderful photographic tool, thank you
Would love to have all the accessories !
Yes, let's talk about all the famous Rolleiflex and Rolleicord cameras. Thank you for this video.
I love your passion and impeccable photography.
This is a really nice video. You guys always seem to find pristine, museum-like cameras and this 3.5F is no exception. It looks like it just rolled off the assembly line.
This is the way to make camera reviews - thanks for sharing! I personally also like the 2.8C (most beautiful bokeh) and D models. When it comes to bright screens I personally also like the much cheaper post-war Ikoflexes. They have a sort of ground glas similar to the Leicaflexes (and these would be the cameras I would suggest seeing a review about, if I may mention that. The SL or the first are so unbelievably cheap right now. Check out the Macro-Elmarit 60 and the 90s, cron or Elmarit, both great...) Really enjoying your videos!
Senti mental, we already considered to do a review on the early Leicaflex cameras. I have them all and it would be a pleasure to do a video on these great cameras. Cheers, Greg
Ian Thomas 🤓 Looking forward to this, thanks!
Can you do a video about Zeiss Ikon Nettar/Ikonta folding cameras (or folding medium format cameras in general).
Verdoux007, thatˋs a great idea and we will follow up this input. Cheers, Greg
I love my 2.8f. It is difficult to use sometimes, but I love it anyway. One important caveat: these are not tripod-friendly cameras. The center of gravity is high due to the viewing lens, and the whole thing can be blown over on a windy day. You'd be surprised.
Chris Thanks for your comment, Chris, and pointing this out. Good to mention it.
Is there a difirrince in the quility of the Pictures between the sl66 and the tlr? In case of sharpness and clarity ect? I am thinking of sell my tlr for the sl66.
Another great video. Love your channel. Thanks guys!
Still my favourite camera but 120 film is very expensive and hard to get in the UK. My 3.5 is fairly old altho I cannot date it - many photographs have been used in my books. If you can run to book reviews this would be very interesting - in my case Contax/Leica/Rollei histories always interest me. One has to wonder where photography might have gone were it not for WW2 and/or the rise of Japanese photography. My old favourite - long stolen - was a camera marketed by Dr. Adox of that marvellous KB17 film, also long gone alas! Good luck with your videos - wish you would show more of your public transport.
I really enjoyed this review along with your XD-7, RZ67 and Mamiya 645 reviews. I love seeing BTS footage of you using the cameras at shoots. I'm not sure I'd be into book reviews. But I do miss the Story Behind the Shoot episodes :)
Thanks for your kind feedback, Don. I really appreciate it. There will be some "Story behind the Shoot" episodes again over the summer/fall if everything works out. But these are really difficult to make and require lots of planning. As I'm a little short on time these days, I try to focus on doing good portrait sessions without necessarily filming them. But there will be more at some point.
Loved the video! I think doing some book reviews would bring another dimension to your channel.
Dude crushed it again as usual this video has made me think about selling my 124G and get this rollei
I would love to hear reviews of photo books! Please do a whole bunch!
Great video and photos!!
Another wonderful review. Many thanks
Wow ,picture quality is amazing.Great video.
I got the MX-EVS 3.5 version, and shot a roll of TX 400 BW, but got it back from development with light leaks on the side edges. Do I need to put in light seals on the film door?
Very nicely produced video. Thank you! I thoroughly enjoyed it. Especially as the Rolleiflex has been my favorite camera for some 15 years.
And nice to hear someone correctly pronounce "Kreuznach" for a change! :-)
Now sub'd.
What’s your thoughts on the Zeiss Ikon Ikoflex TLR’s? I see so many Yashica and Rolleiflex TLR reviews but none on the Zeiss.
Tiddleypidlei , these cameras are extremely rare and they are also tricky in handling and donˋt provide the relieabilty as the Rolleiflex. I guess thatˋs the reason why they never had a significant market share. Best regards, Greg
Ian Thomas I actually own a Zeiss Ikon Ikoflex 1a, I have yet to run any film through it as it needs a CLA. The handling is quite tricky at first but once you throughly read the Manuel it is actually quite easy. But as I said earlier, I have yet to run any film though it so my handling experience is just from “playing” around with camera.
thnx for this good videos guys, keep going, you make a great job!
Gentlemen, as a big fan of TLR cameras, I was wondering if you could do a review to look at the more affordable TLR options. In this excellent video you mentioned that you would not look at the Rolleicord at the moment, can you do a review on the Rolleicord and compare it to its 'bigger brother -the Rolleiflex' and alternatives such as the Yashica-Mat. Thank you
David Milton One of my first videos was a review of the Yashica Mat-124G. It’s a wonderful camera which I still own and use regularly. I can highly recommend it as a less expensive alternative to the Rolleiflex. Hope this helps.
@@AnalogInsights thank you. Yes I've seen it - I have a 1960 Yashica Mat which has many similarities to the Rolleiflex, but with an internal film advance which is similar to the Rolleicord. My question was more a comparison to "how much better is the Rolleiflex to it cheaper alternatives"? Based on your review I purchased a Rollei 35...which is fantastic...so I am wondering if it is worth purchasing a Rolleiflex but wondered if I would notice a real difference to the Mat.
Ah, I see. It will definitely make quite a difference. The lens quality of the Rolleiflex is simply outstanding.
I used one of the Japanese imitations, the Yashica 12, not quite as good a camera, but a good enough for the college student I was at the time. Wonderful video.
thank you, i m consider to buy this model soon
Good choice. We can highly recommend it. :)
Hi Max, would u recommend a Rolleicord as well? Thanks for the superb presentation.
Hi there! can you explain a little bit how to read the metering on the rolleiflex? for example why there are 2 needles and what does the red area mean? Thanks!
It means that it's an old meter that doesn't work.
Press photographers loved the fact they could be focused at eyelevel using the clever mirror hood.
On the back of the hood are two viewing apertures one above the other. Fold the direct vision window down, this has a underneath mirror.
Focus through the bottom widow and then shift your eye up to the top direct vision finder and shoot.
If you look at 1950s Press photographers, they are all doing it.
Doesn't get a mention here, that's why I commented.
By the by Schneider had superior contrast. I was a press photographer back then. Contrast was as important as sharpness. Schneider Xenotar lenses had both.
Wedding phographers preferred the Planar and Press phographers preference was usually Xenotar, apart from the junior staff photographers who would be issued with Xenar equipped Rolleicords.
Tough little beasts the Rolleicords, at 5.6 and f8 everything was sharp.
This camera is awesome!!! Getting mine in a couple of weeks!!!
Joaquín Funes Yay! Glad to hear that. Enjoy shooting it.
Analog Insights thanks for making this videos!!! The history and info you gave is so amazing!!! Hope this channel grows!!!!
Thanks so much! This means a lot to me. :)
Amazing photographs! How do you scan your film? its flawless
donov mayer Thanks for your kind feedback. The video descriptions usually feature how the films were scanned and developed. In this case, it was done by my trusted professional lab MeinFilmLab.de. They’re generally doing a fantastic job and I can highly recommend their service.
@@AnalogInsights Thanks a lot!
Great video! I know very little about TLR's, but I know Rollieflex are among if not the best. I thoroughly enjoyed your review. There is such a "thereness" in medium format photographs that 35MM just can't quite capture. I have wondered how you scan your 35MM photos to digital and I of course wondered how these MF photos were scanned in as well. Whatever process you use seems to work very well. Maybe that could be an episode? My suggestion for a future episode would be a review on the original Nikon F camera. As the first system camera and of course used heavily thoughout the 1960's, I feel it has enough of a history to warrant a review. I am also up for book reviews, except the problem I see is most of the books on Rollei appeared to be in German, which I unfortunately, do not speak. I am going to check out the "New York in the 60's" book, however. Thanks again for your wonderful reviews.
Great video. I want to want one of these, I really do, but I just can't see what it would give me that I don't already have with my Hasselblad or Mamiya 6. I guess I'll have to try one!
Max you have used the Yashica Mat 124G as well. What is your preference between the Yashica and this Rolleiflex?
Definitely the Rolleiflex. Completely different build quality and lens performance. The Rolleiflex is really worth its money. :)
Just wanted to comment on the great audio quality of this video also some beautiful images :) Would love to know what song was used in the montage
The Minolta CLE. that’s if you haven’t covered it previously.
Great Rollie review !!
Hi an other great video what about reviewing the Rolleiflex SL 35 cameras from the 70s & 80s