Hey congratulations! It's just a fantastic camera. Once you get the hang of it, you'll be shooting like a well oiled machine! Which lens do you plan to use?
Actually, I do agree with you. What you have said makes a lot of sense. Although, life does what life does best. Somewhere down the line the occasion of needing that larger format will come into play. But, the pros do favor the cons. We all make the best decision at the time and we live with them. Please, keep the 645. I also loved the photos you shared with us all. God Bless you sir. Roger
Thank you! So far no regrets but I do sometimes wonder about those digital backs for the RZ. Even those instax back modifications are pretty interesting (and expensive). Maybe they'll do one for the 645 at some point! Thanks for watching! Have a nice day!
I was never a fan of the bellows for the focus system on the 67. Also I never really paid much attention but are those leaf shutter systems or does the camera have a focal plane shutter inside the body?
Yeah I agree, the bellows are not my favorite since they change the perspective of the lens as I focus. Makes it more difficult to compose shots. The RZ uses leaf shutters built into the lens which is triggered by the body.
Agree about mirror lock-up. That was a main factor when choosing my Mamiya M645 1000s. Just got the rotating tripod adapter to more easily switch between vertical and horizontal. Love the format. Love the size of the camera. Back it up with a more pocketable Zeiss super Ikonta A which shoots the same size negative and fits in a hip pocket.
Yeah I found that size and the mirror lockup ended up being super important to me and what I choose to shoot. I was hesitant just because my 67 could have a digital back adapted but oh well 🤣
I ended up selling my 645 Super because of the infamous mirror stop issue. My mirror stop broke after having the camera for a few months back in 2020 and I got a replacement 3D printed as many others do, but the very special and intricate spring also broke, so fixing it became more of a hassle. I used it for a while as an infinity only/ zone focus camera as I couldn't rely on the focusing screen, but switched to the RB67 after a while. I don't mind the weight and I love that it's fully mechanical. I really did like the 645 system and have considered getting a 645 Pro again this time, but I will probably never sell the RB because I like it so much. I fully understand you points though, the RB/RZ are big beasts
I appreciate you sharing this. I've heard about the mirror stop issue and i'm sorry your camera caught a fatal case of it. I have had my fingers crossed for years hoping mine never breaks 🤣 Also yes, both the RB and RZ camera series are excellent cameras! I absolutely love the images that Willem Verbeeck gets on his! It just sadly didn't work out for me. Hopefully the guy that bought it will use the heck out of it!
Yeah! It's all about what works best for an individual photographer and what their needs are! I'm also trying to make sure the equipment I keep is equipment I use!
Over the decades, I have used 6x6, 6x7, 6x9, and 6x12cm medium format film cameras. I have never tried 645. I have used medium format rangefinders, SLRs, folding cameras, and view cameras. I have used eye-level and waist-level view medium format cameras. I have also used some medium format cameras with no viewing or focusing features. For general subjects, the 6x6 square image was my favorite until I tried 6x7. For landscapes, the 6x9 is my favorite. If I were forced to choose between a 645 and an RZ67, I am not sure which I would choose. When I needed to replace my worn-out 6x6cm wedding cameras, I considered the 645 but decided against it for the following reasons: 1. For my tastes, 645 images were too close in size, aspect ratio, and image quality to 35mm images. 2. Some 645 cameras did not handle landscape vs. portrait orientation well. 3. Some 645 cameras did not handle eye-level vs. waist-level viewing well. 4. Since I could easily produce 6x4.5cm images by cropping 6x6cm images, I never saw a need for 645 cameras. If I were starting from scratch (no 35mm cameras and no medium format cameras), I would choose 645 because I was impressed with the images of an Alaskan landscape photographer who does great work with two Pentax 645 cameras under harsh conditions. If I could choose an RB67 instead of the RZ67, I would choose the RB67 because it is totally manual and mechanical. The RZ67 is too automatic and electronic for my taste. If forced to choose between a 645 and an RZ67 today, I would choose the RZ67 because I am unfamiliar with the 645 and I am somewhat familiar with the RZ67 because I am now using an RB67.
Those are some great thoughts! The Mamiya 645 Pro is (in my humble opinion) a great combo of portable and modular! I do wish the 645 that I have could do a rotating back like the RZ67 I had could. That was a neat feature. But there is obviously a limitation in space on the negative in the 645s case. I will say Medium format ruined 35mm for me. But I don't mind at all. Now it's just the 645 and the Olympus E500 with the Kodak sensor.
@@ColtonMatocha "I will say Medium format ruined 35mm for me.” For me too. However, I am enjoying shooting 24x68mm panoramic images on 35mm film shot in my 6x7cm medium format film cameras and 24x90mm panoramic images on 35mm film shot in my 6x9cm medium format film cameras.
@@ColtonMatocha No, when I started using 35mm film in my 6x7 and 6x9cm Fuji rangefinder cameras, it was too difficult to mark their small eye-level viewfinders. As a result, I had a lot of practice guessing at the composition. When I started using 35mm film in my RB67, I never felt the need to mark the big waist-level viewfinder.
I'm in the process of selling one of my drones to help finance a purchase of a Mamiya 645. The other medium format camera I own is a 1951 Voightlander Bessa II 6x9. Some of the best images I've ever captured were from this camera. As it's a fixed lens 105mm Color Skopar it's a bit limiting and I'm interested in using different lenses as I do with my other film cameras and digital bodies. I'm really stoked to get my hands on a 645 and start shooting with it. The form factor just looks so right. Thanks again for making this informative video - you also have a new subscriber.
It's a phenomenal camera in my personal opinion. I geek out about it! Thanks for subbing, I appreciate it! Do you plan to use the Mamiya to photograph any subjects in particular?
@ColtonMatocha probably everything except wildlife/sports. I may even try street photography with it like I would with my Contax G1 as I'm close to NYC. I'm primarily a nature photographer but I dabble in just about every type of photography.
@@steveborghardt Those are some great lens! I'd be interested to know your experience with the street photography side of it! Let me know if you have any questions (I'm no expert, but I know a thing or two).
Yeah that's a very similar one to my 645 pro! It's such a well engineered camera series. A lot of thoughtful design. I have a few other videos about the 645. Are you planning to photograph anything specific with it?
I’ve not owned either but in the market for both. My biggest reason to not go with the 645 is the aspect ratio. I’m getting bored of the 35mm aspect ration and I love the 6x7 look. It almost has a 4x5 look. But after holding an RZ76 kit idk that I’d actually shoot it all the time. Heavy and awkward to handhold. And only 9 exposures? I’d be in financial ruin. 😢
Yeah it's a heavy and bulky camera for sure. I like the 4:3 ratio of the 645. Much more boxy than the 3:2 ratio of full frame and perfectly mimics the 4:3 ratio of my Pentax 645D and my 4:3 Olympus cameras. You could also look into a Mamiya 6 or 7 if you want a more square effect! Still not easy on the wallet, but much more portable and easy to use!
Until recently I'd have said hang on to the 67 as an investment (assuming you don't need the cash), but as film camera prices look like they've peaked, for now anyway, maybe it's not such a big deal.
Yeah I had considered that (and initially I thought that's how it would work out) but I ended up breaking even on it. Several people were selling similar versions for less than mine so it was a challenge not to lose money on the deal 😅. I guess the film bubble more or less popped. I'm not mad about it though!
@@ColtonMatocha i use the 203FE which has the advantage of 1/2000th max shutter. it is great to use with natural light. its hard letting my mamiya go, but i will eventually
I just got delivery of my Mamiya 645 Pro TL! Excited to run it through its paces on a photography trip soon 😊 Good to hear your perspective on it!
Hey congratulations! It's just a fantastic camera. Once you get the hang of it, you'll be shooting like a well oiled machine! Which lens do you plan to use?
Actually, I do agree with you. What you have said makes a lot of sense. Although, life does what life does best. Somewhere down the line the occasion of needing that larger format will come into play. But, the pros do favor the cons. We all make the best decision at the time and we live with them. Please, keep the 645. I also loved the photos you shared with us all. God Bless you sir. Roger
Thank you! So far no regrets but I do sometimes wonder about those digital backs for the RZ. Even those instax back modifications are pretty interesting (and expensive). Maybe they'll do one for the 645 at some point! Thanks for watching! Have a nice day!
Both of these cameras have served me well over the years.
Yeah they are both excellent cameras!
I was never a fan of the bellows for the focus system on the 67. Also I never really paid much attention but are those leaf shutter systems or does the camera have a focal plane shutter inside the body?
Yeah I agree, the bellows are not my favorite since they change the perspective of the lens as I focus. Makes it more difficult to compose shots. The RZ uses leaf shutters built into the lens which is triggered by the body.
I love my Mamiya 645 1000s it’s been my first medium format camera and I’m loving it more and more everyday.
Yeah it's a great camera! What lens do you use for it?
@@ColtonMatocha current have the coveted 80mm 1.9. Love the bokah on it but just got a 45mm f2.8 I’m looking forward to try out.
@@coach_yo the 45mm is a solid lens!
Agree about mirror lock-up. That was a main factor when choosing my Mamiya M645 1000s. Just got the rotating tripod adapter to more easily switch between vertical and horizontal. Love the format. Love the size of the camera. Back it up with a more pocketable Zeiss super Ikonta A which shoots the same size negative and fits in a hip pocket.
Yeah I found that size and the mirror lockup ended up being super important to me and what I choose to shoot. I was hesitant just because my 67 could have a digital back adapted but oh well 🤣
I ended up selling my 645 Super because of the infamous mirror stop issue. My mirror stop broke after having the camera for a few months back in 2020 and I got a replacement 3D printed as many others do, but the very special and intricate spring also broke, so fixing it became more of a hassle. I used it for a while as an infinity only/ zone focus camera as I couldn't rely on the focusing screen, but switched to the RB67 after a while. I don't mind the weight and I love that it's fully mechanical. I really did like the 645 system and have considered getting a 645 Pro again this time, but I will probably never sell the RB because I like it so much. I fully understand you points though, the RB/RZ are big beasts
I appreciate you sharing this. I've heard about the mirror stop issue and i'm sorry your camera caught a fatal case of it. I have had my fingers crossed for years hoping mine never breaks 🤣
Also yes, both the RB and RZ camera series are excellent cameras! I absolutely love the images that Willem Verbeeck gets on his! It just sadly didn't work out for me. Hopefully the guy that bought it will use the heck out of it!
I sold my rb 67 because it's heavier and bigger than my 4x5 graflex. I agree your points on 645. Super comfortable and easy to use.
Yeah! It's all about what works best for an individual photographer and what their needs are! I'm also trying to make sure the equipment I keep is equipment I use!
Over the decades, I have used 6x6, 6x7, 6x9, and 6x12cm medium format film cameras. I have never tried 645.
I have used medium format rangefinders, SLRs, folding cameras, and view cameras.
I have used eye-level and waist-level view medium format cameras. I have also used some medium format cameras with no viewing or focusing features.
For general subjects, the 6x6 square image was my favorite until I tried 6x7.
For landscapes, the 6x9 is my favorite.
If I were forced to choose between a 645 and an RZ67, I am not sure which I would choose.
When I needed to replace my worn-out 6x6cm wedding cameras, I considered the 645 but decided against it for the following reasons:
1. For my tastes, 645 images were too close in size, aspect ratio, and image quality to 35mm images.
2. Some 645 cameras did not handle landscape vs. portrait orientation well.
3. Some 645 cameras did not handle eye-level vs. waist-level viewing well.
4. Since I could easily produce 6x4.5cm images by cropping 6x6cm images, I never saw a need for 645 cameras.
If I were starting from scratch (no 35mm cameras and no medium format cameras), I would choose 645 because I was impressed with the images of an Alaskan landscape photographer who does great work with two Pentax 645 cameras under harsh conditions.
If I could choose an RB67 instead of the RZ67, I would choose the RB67 because it is totally manual and mechanical. The RZ67 is too automatic and electronic for my taste.
If forced to choose between a 645 and an RZ67 today, I would choose the RZ67 because I am unfamiliar with the 645 and I am somewhat familiar with the RZ67 because I am now using an RB67.
Those are some great thoughts! The Mamiya 645 Pro is (in my humble opinion) a great combo of portable and modular! I do wish the 645 that I have could do a rotating back like the RZ67 I had could. That was a neat feature. But there is obviously a limitation in space on the negative in the 645s case. I will say Medium format ruined 35mm for me. But I don't mind at all. Now it's just the 645 and the Olympus E500 with the Kodak sensor.
@@ColtonMatocha
"I will say Medium format ruined 35mm for me.”
For me too.
However, I am enjoying shooting 24x68mm panoramic images on 35mm film shot in my 6x7cm medium format film cameras and 24x90mm panoramic images on 35mm film shot in my 6x9cm medium format film cameras.
@@Narsuitus oh yeah I bet that's a fun experience! Do you use anything to mark in the viewfinder?
@@ColtonMatocha
No, when I started using 35mm film in my 6x7 and 6x9cm Fuji rangefinder cameras, it was too difficult to mark their small eye-level viewfinders. As a result, I had a lot of practice guessing at the composition. When I started using 35mm film in my RB67, I never felt the need to mark the big waist-level viewfinder.
I'm in the process of selling one of my drones to help finance a purchase of a Mamiya 645. The other medium format camera I own is a 1951 Voightlander Bessa II 6x9. Some of the best images I've ever captured were from this camera. As it's a fixed lens 105mm Color Skopar it's a bit limiting and I'm interested in using different lenses as I do with my other film cameras and digital bodies. I'm really stoked to get my hands on a 645 and start shooting with it. The form factor just looks so right. Thanks again for making this informative video - you also have a new subscriber.
It's a phenomenal camera in my personal opinion. I geek out about it! Thanks for subbing, I appreciate it! Do you plan to use the Mamiya to photograph any subjects in particular?
@ColtonMatocha probably everything except wildlife/sports. I may even try street photography with it like I would with my Contax G1 as I'm close to NYC. I'm primarily a nature photographer but I dabble in just about every type of photography.
@@ColtonMatocha I just bought a mint condition 645 pro along with the 80mm f1.9 and a 35mm f3.5 lenses - looking forward to my first time out with it.
@@steveborghardt Those are some great lens! I'd be interested to know your experience with the street photography side of it! Let me know if you have any questions (I'm no expert, but I know a thing or two).
@@ColtonMatocha Thanks for the offer - I'll take you up on that.
I've just picked up the 645 super, I think this will become my go to once I'm fully used to it
Yeah that's a very similar one to my 645 pro! It's such a well engineered camera series. A lot of thoughtful design. I have a few other videos about the 645. Are you planning to photograph anything specific with it?
I’ve not owned either but in the market for both. My biggest reason to not go with the 645 is the aspect ratio. I’m getting bored of the 35mm aspect ration and I love the 6x7 look. It almost has a 4x5 look. But after holding an RZ76 kit idk that I’d actually shoot it all the time. Heavy and awkward to handhold. And only 9 exposures? I’d be in financial ruin. 😢
Yeah it's a heavy and bulky camera for sure. I like the 4:3 ratio of the 645. Much more boxy than the 3:2 ratio of full frame and perfectly mimics the 4:3 ratio of my Pentax 645D and my 4:3 Olympus cameras.
You could also look into a Mamiya 6 or 7 if you want a more square effect! Still not easy on the wallet, but much more portable and easy to use!
Until recently I'd have said hang on to the 67 as an investment (assuming you don't need the cash), but as film camera prices look like they've peaked, for now anyway, maybe it's not such a big deal.
Yeah I had considered that (and initially I thought that's how it would work out) but I ended up breaking even on it. Several people were selling similar versions for less than mine so it was a challenge not to lose money on the deal 😅. I guess the film bubble more or less popped. I'm not mad about it though!
i feel the same about my Mamiya 7 , for some reason i am not using it as much as i would hope. i still prefer my Hassy.
I felt bad to have a nice camera just collecting dust. Which Hasselblad do you use?
@@ColtonMatocha i use the 203FE which has the advantage of 1/2000th max shutter. it is great to use with natural light. its hard letting my mamiya go, but i will eventually
@@MarcS4R that's a really nice one! Such a stunning classic look too!