Bronica 6x6 Model S2a with Auxiliary Fisheye Adapter..
Single Lens Reflex Medium Format
Cameras
by Robert Monaghan
Single Lens Reflex Medium Format
Cameras
by Robert Monaghan
Index:
Related Local Links:
Medium Format on a Budget
History of the Medium Format SLR
Q: Describe MF single lens reflex (SLR) cameras
MF SLRs include the well-known Hasselblad, Bronica, Rollei, Pentax, and
Mamiya SLRs (see
listing of current MF cameras below for
photos
and
examples). These MF cameras typically have interchangeable lenses and a
moving mirror which permits through the lens viewing and composition.
Some MF SLRs also offer multiple backs (e.g., 6x6cm and 6x4.5cm backs on
Hasselblads) for multiple format support.
The big advantage of SLRs derive from the use of the same lens to view
and take the photograph. What you get is what you see. The system camera
approach enables the photographer to select the lens, body, finder or
prism, and back needed to match each project's challenges. Usually a
range of interchangeable lenses are available, albeit at often high
prices.
The disadvantage to SLRs is the extra weight and noise from the moving
mirror design. Wide angle lenses may require compromises to enable enough
room for clearance by the moving mirror.
Many budget MF SLRs are cameras which were made for limited periods or
numbers, often with few interchangeable lenses or accessories. Examples
might include the Korelle Reflexes and Norita 66 SLRs. Obviously, these
cameras will be problematic to get fixed, and finding lenses and
accessories may be a long-term effort.
Q: What are some early and hopefully inexpensive MF SLRs?
Here is a listing of some early 1960s MF SLRs and key features:
Source: The Camera in the Middle - 2 1/4 by James M. Zanutto,
pp.54, October 1962 Pop. Photography.
One point to note is that there simply aren't all that many choices of
early MF SLRs, as the above list highlights. Most of the lower cost
cameras were not rugged enough designs to survive 35 years of use and
still work. The Corfields, Optikas, and Kalimars are basically collector
cameras. The lenses from the low end Exakta 66 and Praktisix are more
likely to
be useful than the bodies today.
Even the high end Bronica Deluxe and Model S
bodies are hard to find in good working order, although their Nikkor lenses are
often used on other Bronicas. In part, this failure is due to the complex
workings of Bronica's falling mirror design and use of brass gearings in
the lens mount and film advance.
In short, the Hasselblad 500c is probably the major exception and
opportunity to find an early 1960s medium format camera that is still in
good working condition after a forty years of use. I suspect the recent
generous trade-ins for older 500c bodies was partly motivated by the
desire to remove these relics from the used market where they were
depressing prices. The corresponding earlier lenses and accessories
(e.g., 12 back vs. later A12 back) are still usable on current camera
bodies. Unfortunately, that means that used prices for these earlier
Hasselblad items have gone up and up, pulled upward by the price of
new items that cost more but have similar features and utility.
Q: What is the lowest cost medium format SLR now being made?
Update 8/2003: The Mamiya 645E (for economy) SLR is now selling for $750 US$ in the USA market,
with full warranty and support. This price is roughly half what a similar kit cost just a
few years ago. Part of the lower cost is due to production in China, where labor costs are
low. This low price is putting pressure on other vendors, and forcing used gear sellers to
reduce prices or lose out to this new and in warranty medium format Mamiya 645E SLR. The
better quality control and entry level into the full mamiya 645 system, with many modest cost
optics on the used market, makes this an attractive entry level camera for many new buyers.
Check out the low-end Kiev 88 and
Kiev 60 (and related Pentacon) cameras. The Kiev 88 is an early
Hasselblad
1000f/1600f clone that also accepts those lenses. The Kiev 60
is a Pentacon clone, looking like an overgrown 35mm SLR. These MF SLRs
start around $500 for new cameras. A US warranty and imported Kiev costs
more, but you get more quality control checks and local repair support.
For more information on the differences between the Kiev 60 and Kiev 88
models, check out the Kiev Report and
Kievaholic Pages.
The Kiev 88 and earlier Salyut and Salyut S designs were clones of the
Hasselblad 1000F focal plane camera (see history of MF SLR.
Similarly, the Kiev 60 and earlier Kiev 6C were copies of the Pentacon 6.
A series of modified Kiev cameras have been produced to match user demands. For fans of the
Carl Zeiss Jena or Schneider Pentacon-6 mount lenses, a Kiev 88cm
version by Hartblei features the P-6 mount in place of the Kiev-88 lens mount.
In all of the Kiev models, you have to keep track of which lenses can be
used with each body. I am told that the later models use more standard lens mounts
for Pentacon compatible lenses (Kiev 60) or Hasselblad 1000F/1600F mount
lenses (Kiev 88). Many of these differences can be worked around or fixed with a bit of
work (see Kiev mailing list archives).
The associated Kiev lenses are the
lowest cost MF SLR lenses currently available new, as you might expect.
The lenses are reportedly very good value for the money, but I would
recommend a US warranty and inspected body to avoid quality control
problems cited by a number of owners.
See our Camera Links Pages for various buying
guides to Kiev cameras, bodies, lenses, and other resources!
Q: What is about the Bronica 6x6 classic cameras (S2A, EC/TL)?
Another excellent choice for MF SLR system cameras on a budget are the Bronica 6x6 cameras,
specifically the later S2a and EC/TL models. The S2A is an all mechanical
camera, while the later EC/TL model featured aperture priority
electronics. Accessory film backs include 6x6, 6x4.5, and polaroid backs.
These Japanese Bronicas feature high quality Nikkor optics, among over 65
available lenses including many third party makers. You can get started
for roughly $500 with an S2A camera, although earlier models with nikkor
lens can be bought for as little as $250 US. Hundreds of lenses and
scores of cameras are for-sale at any time on a Bronica for-sale page.
Many MF SLRs were owned by professional photographers who used them hard
over many years. Take care to ensure that your cameras work,
as repairs are quite costly!
MF SLR models include Bronica S, Bronica S2, Bronica
S2a, Bronica C, and Bronica EC and EC/TL.
Q: What about Rollei MF SlR cameras?
Rolleiflex has created a number of leading edge new MF SLR designs over
the years. The early Rollei SLRs had a built-in bellows that provided
closeup and depth-of-field controls with circa a 17 degree tilt
capability. I also liked the focal plane shutter design and lens mount
adapter, as these could be used to mount a variety of lenses (see homebrew lens article for ideas).
Unfortunately, the high cost of accessory lens of outstanding quality
made the Rollei SLR perhaps the most expensive MF system available! A
Pop. Photo. study showed that a similar Hasselblad system was quite a bit
less than the Rolleiflex MF SLR. I have seen postings bemoaning the loss
of a $20,000 US super-tele lens for the Rolleiflex SLR! So even a used
Rollei SLR under our 80% solution costs close to
$1,000
US used. Used lenses are rarer and usually significantly more than
similar Hasselblad lenses. If money is no object, the Rollei SLRs may
well be the best quality system available in MF.
Thanks to Bob Shell, we have posted his summary of Rollei SLR Models with full feature comparisons.
Models covered include SLX, 6002, 6006, 6006 mod II, 6003 professional,
6008 professional, and 6008 integral.
Q: What other MF SLRs are well regarded and potential budget MF
cameras?
You may be able to find a Kowa 6 or Kowa66 MF SLR camera, along with a
number of interchangeable leaf shutter lenses. The Kowa 6 does not have
interchangeable backs, but does feature interchangeable screens and so on.
The Kowa 66 features interchangeable backs using a clever approach that
doesn't require dark slides, often easily lost and hard to replace.
So many professionally used MF SLRs such as Bronica ETRs (6x4.5),
Bronica SQ (6x6), Pentax 67 (6x7), and Mamiya RB (6x7) are available used
that you might be able to get started for $500 to $1000 US, depending on
condition and accessories. In many cases, you may later be able to
upgrade to the latest model while using older lenses. However, check
carefully as many newer models offer features such as autofocus that may
not work with all older lenses and related accessories. A number of books
and manuals are available describing these model features on Amazon.com bookstore online.
Q: Why does Hasselblad enjoy such a great reputation?
Great marketing, first and foremost (see Awful Ads of their
competitors). Great products. Superb optical quality of lenses. Long-term
distributor and repair support for their products.
Hasselblad dropped the original 1600F and 1000F focal plane shutter
cameras for the 500c series in 1957. The 500c had a compur shutter (C for
compur, F for focal plane) in each lens. This leaf shutter design added
to the costs, but provided a uniquely broad flash synchronization range.
Competitors such as Bronica model S were
limited to 1/40th or slower flash synch. In 1962, Hasselblad's MF SLR
major competitors were all using focal plane shutters - the Bronica
S, Corfield 66, Exakta 66, Kalimar Reflex SQ, Optika IIa, and Praktisix.
The current
Hasselblad lineup now includes both focal plane and leaf shutter
cameras. Paradoxically, their last major competitor dropped their
innovative Bronica EC/TL aperture automation
focal plane shutter cameras to create a smaller 6x4.5cm
leaf shutter ETR MF SLR in their own unique niche, then brought out
SQ-Ai/B 6x6cm and GS-1 6x7cm models.
Meanwhile, Hasselblad has re-emerged with their own focal plane shutter
SLRs after abandoning them with their original 1600F and 1000F models.
This history makes it funny to read each maker's ads attacking the others
designs, only to read later ads extoling these same approaches as a great
new idea. Knowing this history helps to realize how important great
marketing is to creating a reputation that stands on its own, as
Hasselblad has done.
Q: What about an older Hasselblad SLR?
You might be able to find an older Hasselblad 500c or 500cm
camera or even a Rolleiflex SLR in the under $1,000 US range. If you
intend to go into professional photography later on, these cameras can be
excellent investments. Unfortunately, the cost of lenses and accessories
is currently such that you can buy other MF SLRs (e.g., Bronica, Kiev)
for what a Hasselblad back might cost used. Lenses are usually good
investments too, but initial cost is often well over $1,000 US and up.
Unfortunately, the cost of new accessories and especially lenses is so
high that compatible older used equipment prices are being driven upwards
too. After 15 years of use, my Hasselblad 500c outfit is now worth at
least double its original price. New lens prices have nearly tripled in a
decade.
May I suggest that if you want to go this route on a budget, that you
look at the 80% solution? Buy one with a normal
lens
and be happy. Buy something else such as a Kiev, Kowa, or Bronica SLR
with much more affordable backs, accessories and especially lenses.
When money is more available, invest in the higher cost lenses for your
Rollei and Hassy as you can.
rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
From: Donald Farra d2f@thegrid.net
[1] Re: Hasselblad Heresy!
Date: Sun Feb 15 19:01:01 CST 1998
Each camera system has its merits and it is up to the end user to choose a
system that best suits his or her needs. For example I have used both the
Hassy and the Mamiya systems and found each had its good and bad points, but
economics of a system did come into play and I choose Mamiya in the end.
This
is not say that Hassy is any less of a camera system, its small size and
square format have there place and will not disappear off the market just
because they are expensive.
As far as one being sharper than the other, I am sure that both are sharp
enough and that the limiting factor in the total system is what is behind
the camera. In terms of flexiablity and speed of operation some 35mm camera
owners can give either medium format camera system a run for the money. In
terms of sharpness their are no doubt some 4x5 and 8x10 owners reading this
whole discussion with a smile.
Don
From: freeman@telalink.net (Bill Kenner)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: Mon, 10 Jul 2000
Subject: Re: Hasselblad vs. RZ 67
As the others who have posted answers to your question have said, you have
two questions with sub-questions following from them. First, you need to
decide between square rectangular format. I spent years with 35mm and
tried to make the switch to 6x6 and I couldn't do it. I prefer the 6x7 or
645
over the 6x6.
Once you get the format question answered, then look at camera systems.
If you want to go 6x6, Practical Photography, a British photo mag with
objective evaluations of photo gear, never mind who buys ads, rated the
Bronica SQAi above the basic Hassy. Lens quality was equal. The SQ handled
better and was cheaper particularly with the used stuff on the market.
If you want to go 6x7, the RZ does great for studio work. The rotating
back
is addictive along with the bellows. Never having to say, "Wait till I get
a close up lens (extension tube, etc.)" has great appeal. The RZ is a
handful to take outside. You might want to get an older RB Pro-S with C
lenses and Pro-S backs for the studio and a used Bronica ETRSi for outside
work. The cost of both would equal the cost of the RZ along. ETRSis are
going cheap. You have three generations of lenses to choose from and that
will determine much of your cost for lenses. I bought an ETRSi body, 75mm
E-II lens, prism, 150 MC and 50mm MC for $1,250.00. It was in 8.5 shape.
You can get the Pro-S with back and normal lens for under $1K. A Maxwell
screen will help either of them with a brighter viewfinder.
Bill Kenner
Nashville, TN
Date: Sun, 27 Aug 2000
From: John Halliwell john@photopia.demon.co.uk
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: 645N Auto Focus or Bronica ETRSi?
sixty7a@bellsouth.net
writes
>Anyone have experience with these two cameras. I've narrowed my decision >to purchase a medium format to these two. >Thanks
The two cameras are very different in design and features. If we knew
what you wanted to shoot, we'd have a better idea which may be better
for your purposes. In many respects, the two couldn't be further apart,
it makes me wonder how you have arrived at this short list!
ETRSi: Manual focussing Leaf shutters Exposure modes dependent on finder fitted Removable backs Waist level finder option 645N: Auto & manaul focus Focal plane shutter (some leaf shutter lenses available) Full set of exposure modes Fixed back (removable inserts - not the same as removable backs) Fixed pentaprism finder
--
John
Preston, Lancs, UK.
Date: Thu, 07 Sep 2000
From: Edward Craft ecraft@optonline.net
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Bronica -vs- Mamiya / new or used?
Peter Nelson wrote:
> After perusing responses to my earlier question about > getting started in MF and following some of the web links, > I think it will come down to Mamiya vs Bronica. A Hassie > would be nice but it's out of my price range. [trim]
I too recently made the move into medium format. The Bronica was about
the only system I didn't look at seriously (no particular reason) so I
cannot comment on it. Not knowing how much I would actually use the
format, I couldn't justify Hasselblad or the Contax 645 AF, which I the
one I salivated over, and still do. I got the Mamiya 645E kit plus two
lenses (45mm and 150mm) for less than the Contax kit would have cost.
(That's not a knock on Contax, by the way. The cameras hardly compare.)
I'm enjoying the Mamiya and would recommend it highly. You would have to
live without interchangeable backs and any finder other than the fixed
prism. For me that's no problem. For you it may be different. The camera
functions beautifully and the lenses are terrific. Lately, I've mainly
been shooting mine mounted on a monopod, but the camera can be used
handheld. Doing so takes some geting used to. An optional Rapid Winder
grip is available that improves the ergonomics. Mamiya was, and still
may be, giving away the grip when you purchase the kit. Don't be misled
by the term Rapid Winder, though. It's a two-throw shuttercock with a
release where a 35mm shooter would expect it, that's all.
In your original post you objected to the 645E's built-in meter and
auto-exposure. A few points. First, know that the meter is very
accurate. And I'm not in the habit of trusting built in meters (except
the one on my F5). Second, the auto-exposure is simply an available
aperture-priority mode. Mamiya didn't exactly go haywire with automation
on the E. Finally, you don't have to use them!
Regards,
Date: 5 Oct 2000
Matthew Brown sliceoflifephoto@worldnet.att.net wrote:
I'm going to go along with most of the other folks and suggest that
you try before you buy. Your preferences will be determined by your
personal taste and shooting style - nobody in this group can make the
decision for you. Each of these systems has advantages and drawbacks.
Plusses:
Handles like a (very) big 35mm.
Inexpensive, but with excellent lenses.
"Ideal Format" enlarges to popular paper sizes with minimal cropping.
Minuses:
Vibration and noise can be a problem (although I understand the
II is much improved).
Very slow flash sync, so you may have trouble
with fill-flash unless you get a leaf-shutter lens.
My personal favorite, but that's because I'm already invested in the
system.
Plusses:
Light, compact, and all-mechanical (but with built-in TTL
flash).
The winder is great, but costs quite a bit.
Used/rental equipment is widely available (everything Hasselblad
has made since 1957 (with the exception of the F/TCC/FE shutterless
lenses) fits this camera.
TTL flash.
Flash sync at all shutter speeds (B- 1/500).
Minuses:
The square negative may take some getting used to, but
I like it.
It may be awkward for you to use at first. The camera really works
quite well hand-held, but it's different from 35mm and will take a
little getting used to. The winder is
really nice, though...and pretty much resolves any handling difficulty
(for a rather high price).
Expensive (particularly lenses).
No coupled TTL metering (only TTL flash). Uncoupled TTL metering is
available by adding one of the meter prisms.
Pluses:
Easily the most sophisticated MF SLR on the market.
Great metering system.
Electonically-controlled shutters sync at all speeds.
Built-in motor makes the camera handle really well.
Very extensive range of superb lenses.
Inserts are not "matched" to magazines and can be interchanged.
Minuses:
The square negative may take some getting used to, but
I like it.
Less used/rental gear available (i've never seen any, in fact).
Bigger/heavier than Hasselblad (but smaller than P67).
Dependent on batteries.
The manufacturer is in a rather precarious financial position, IIRC.
Yup.
All excellent. Personally, I like the Zeiss lenses on the Hassy/Rollei.
I have never used the Schneider lenses (available for the Rollei), but
they're regarded extremely highly (equal to and in some cases better
than Zeiss). Any of these cameras is capable of blowing the doors off
of any 35mm made when it comes to quality...if they're properly used.
I think they're all easy to use this way. You'll need to adapt to
the Hassy and the Rollei.
Available on both the Hassy and the Rollei. I don't think you'll
have any complaints about either of them.
I love them. I don't know how I did without them when I shot 35mm. The
ability to switch instantly between B&W; and color, or between high and low
speed film is wonderful. You would also be surprised how handy Polaroid
is.
It's an acquired taste. Personally, I like it a lot. It is, however,
a matter of personal aesthetics. I don't think you'll notice any
difference due to negative size, particularly if you don't feel
compelled to crop everything to a rectangular print size. I think
the square makes for a very interesting portrait, for example.
Try to rent first.
Steve
Date: Mon, 16 Oct 2000
The problem with LF cameras is viewing. This side of Gowlandflex, there
aren't many LF reflex cameras :-)
Fuji 680 is a SLR camera with a set of (limited by LF standards, but quite
generous in practice) front movements, electronically controlled shutter,
motorized operation, AE operation, interchangeable viewfinders, etc., and
a battery of great lenses. And the whole shebang comes in one - compact
comparing to LF - piece. The downside is its cost. When the 6x8 negative
is enough, the 680 beats every LF camera (with or without RF adapter)
hands down. I much prefer it over a 4x5 for simpler setups. Of course,
there are jobs that only a LF camera can tackle...
Michael
...
Date: Fri, 22 Sep 2000
The GS-1 is an extremely reliable 67 system. Grossly undermarketed by
Tamron Bronica, the system does not hold a particualy good resale value,
but this lends itself to some outstanding bargains when assembling a used
system. A lot of people talk smack about the system, but when pressed to
explain, I invariably find out that the person talking is repeating some
hear-say, and has not actually used the system. This reputation has its
grounds back in the days when GMI was importing and supporting (vry badly)
the bronica line. Service was erratic and haphazard. Since the buyout by
Tamron Bronica, that situation has changed dramatically.
I have a 12 year old GS-1 that is the one of the foundations of my
business (along with the 4X5). It is rugged and holds up to full time
field use (I am not particularly easy on equipment), with virtually
thousands upon thousands of rolls shot through it..... and has never
failed me. It has never been in the shop (even for a CLA) in that entire
time. The lenses are very sharp and compare very favorably (in some cases
outperforming) to its 67 brethren from Pentax and Mamiya. (wonderful 60 X
40's).
Some of the disadvantages of the Gs-1 are.....
no revolving back, making it necessary to turn the camera on its side to
shoot verticals. This is of course how the system comes in lighter than
the mamiya offering. This is countered by the use of the rotary prism,
which by swiveling 180 degrees, makes verticals a snap. Indeed, the rotary
prism allows viewing with the camera over your head, making the camera
much more gymnastic than its counterparts.
focusing for head and shoulder portraits with the 150 will require an
extension tube, making it not necessarily the best choice for that pursuit
cable releases are overpriced junk...buy the parts from radio Shack and
make your own.
backs will start spacing irregularly after 1000 rolls or so, but is very
reasonable to fix (125 last time).
as far as a CLA every year...hmm...if I were shooting events or weddings,
I might worry about that situation a little bit more. But as a landscape
shooter, if my GS-1 body were to break, I would simply pull out my
"back-up" body and continue shooting. Frankly, I think the old GS-1 bod
will outlast me and the times, and with the money saved over 12 years by
NOT doing the CLA, I'm sure I could buy a new body with money to spare.
So, in the current down under Olympic vocabulary...no-worries....
George
"John G. Silver" wrote:
From: "eMeL" badbatz99@hotmail.com
Christopher Bush cbush@dialupnet.com wrote
Rollei SL66 did have reliability problems - I'd avoid it like bubonic
plague for any type of full-time, intense, professional work, especially
now when fixing it quickly may be a dicey proposition. Rolleiflex 6001 and
6008i are built like tanks and so far have a clean bill of health.
But... If you think that either Hasselblad or Rolleiflex system will
result in significant weight savings, you may be surprised! Body - yes,
but the entire "must have" system will be pretty close in weight to your
Mamiya RB.
My migration path was from Pentacon-six (ouch!) to Hasselblad 500C to
Mamiya RB to Hasselblad 500CM to Rolleiflex SL to Hasselblad EL/M to
Rolleiflex 6008i. And guess what? The total weight of my bag and
equipment cases has remained pretty much constant. So...if your game is a
MF SLR - join that gym!
Michael
Date: 27 May 2001
The Agiflex 6x6cm SLR is a derivative of the 1930s Korelle German camera.
Made in England first during WWII for the Royal Navy without the reflex
finder, surplus units were converted with the reflex finder for civilian
use. Then the camera was made for public distribution as model I (no flash
sync), model II (upgraded with flash sync) and model III the best of the
lot with a different wide bayonet lens mount. I and II rarely work
perfectly today, while a good III is a gem. I think only tele lenses were
made and no wideangles. This camera and its lenses can generally (not
easily) be found only in the UK today. I have had all models over the
years and today only keep a good model III, which is a great camera, very
well made.
Date: Wed, 13 Mar 2002
From: Gordon Moat moat@attglobal.net
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Questions about medium-format vs. 35mm
Bronica was bought by Tamron a few years ago. The really old stuff had
Nikkor lenses at one point in time, then they made their own. The current
factory operates much the same as before the Tamron take-over, and the
cameras and lenses are very high quality. None of the current stuff has the
plastic feel and construction of Tamron 35 mm gear, and hopefully it will
stay that way.
Quite a few pros in California use Bronica, though I have seen mostly ETR
through ETRSi 645 gear. I have seen these take a beating and keep going.
Hasselblad gear is also very common here, especially amongst the wedding
photographers. Rollei gear is nearly unknown, and rarely seen. The other
very popular gear is Mamiya, but in 645 and 6 x 7 mostly, and lots of good
rental gear selections.
Availability of rental gear often dictates choices for pros. Easy to rent
Hasselblad and Mamiya RB/RZ 67 lenses and backs. Bronica has good
availability of used gear, at reasonable prices, hence their popularity.
Check http://www.keh.com for used gear in the US. Current Hasselblad 150
mm lens prices around $US 900 to $US 2000, depending on age and condition.
Rollei use of batteries should not be a detriment, though the heavier then
Hasselblad construction may. The Rollei gear is very robust, and reliable.
There are still quite a few SLX versions still working, and these had NiCad
batteries. Future availability of replacement batteries may be an issue,
and another good reason to go with Hasselblad.
Amongst Hasseblad, Rollei, Mamiya, and Bronica, there are few bad choices
amongst recent gear. Check the availability of rental gear, the prices of
used gear, then decide. You will enjoy your photography regardless of
choice, and be happy with the addition to your 35 mm gear.
Ciao!
Gordon Moat
Alliance Graphique Studio
http://www.allgstudio.com
....
From: flexaret2@aol.com (FLEXARET2)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: 29 May 2003
Subject: Re: Flash Sync - Exakta 66 vs Kiev 60/88
I have been using Pentacon 6 (Exakta 66 predecessor) and Kiev 60
and Kiev 88 all with approx. 1/30 slow sync speed and there is nothing
sad about it. I have gotten great flash photos from these cameras for over 25
years.
FYI - there are other medium format focal plane shutter slrs
with faster sync speeds-
Bronica S2A - 1/40
Bronica EC - 1/60
Hasselblad 2000/200 series - may be as high as 1/90 - but am not sure.
In any event most of these cameras are more expensive than the
Kiev models.
- Sam Sherman
Edward Craft
From: sog@amaterasu.scd.ucar.edu (Steve Gombosi)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Compare these cameras!!!
>In the spring of next year, I will be moving up to medium format from my
>current Nikon 35mm system, which I will continue to use in certain
>situations.
>
>I have my choices narrowed to three cameras.....
>Pentax 67II
>Hasselblad 503cw
>Rolleiflex 6008i
>I am satisfied with all three of the systems and price is not an issue--
>any one of these systems will cost me some cash.
>Please give me opinions based on the following criteria.
>
>1) Optics
>2) Ease of handheld use
>3) Flash capabilities and accuracy....I really like the ease of dialing
>in flash exposure on my Nikon flashes-- + or minus 1 stop, etc.
>4) advantages of film backs on the hassy and rollei versus the 67II.
>Also does the square format stack up to the 6X7??
>I am a black and white portrait photographer and am currently working on
>a portfolio of the Mississippi delta-- I work almost always on location
>and prefer to work handheld if possible.
From: "eMeL" badbatz99@hotmail.com
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Fuji 680 or Pentax 67 ?
From: George Stocking gwrhino@earthlink.net
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Bronica GS-1
http://www.georgestocking.com
> I've been told that after 8-10 years many Bronica lenses
> > will develop this problem. I think my lenses were about that old when
I
> > bought them. I have also heard, but not experienced, that the backs will
> > start overlapping frames after long, heavy use. My used backs have worked
> > fine.
> >
> >
>
> I too have the GS-1 system with a batch of lenses and backs - all bought
> second hand.
>
> No criticism of anyone here, but any pro who does not have his equipment
> serviced every year, regularly, is just storing up huge embarrassment and
> expense for himself in the future.
>
> Every year on the dot, in the lot goes for clean and check up, like the
> submariner who has a shower after a long sea voyage, the gear gets it
> whether it needs it or not.
>
> JS
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Date: Mon, 5 Mar 2001
Subject: Re: medium format camera reviews by Danny Gonzalez...
> the Rollei has the closer focus I like, but another poster mentioned some
> reliability issues. MPE has some good prices on the SL66's.
> I acknowledge that my RB is ideal for flexibility, and the lenses are great,
> but I just can't haul that thing around!!!
From: flexaret2@aol.com (FLEXARET2)
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Need Info on AGIFLEX Camera
From: "Marcus" Marcus@nospam.grundy.com>
Newsgroups: rec.photo.equipment.medium-format
Subject: Re: Best autofocus 645?
Date: Tue, 23 Oct 2001
As I mentioned in a previous post today....The Pentax 645n is a great
camera! You get world-class glass, a quite fast AF system (but of course
not as good as the Canon EOS 1v 35mm), a solid body and a compact design for
field use.
This camera feels and looks more like a big mother of a 35mm camera than a
MF camera. The boxiness has been shaped out of it, and there's a great
handgrip to help you shoot. It's not too bad weight-wise; I've carried it
around for a couple of hours and lived to tell about it! ;)
What you don't get:
The ability to change film mid-roll...there's kludges around this but it's
not really made for that. If you're used to this you will miss it. Note
however you can carry multiple pre-loaded inserts with you and switch
inserts after rolls are finished, just like film backs, if you're in a
high-pressure situation.
Mirror lock-up: If you like to lock up your mirror for critical landscape
photography you may not like this camera. Please note that Pentax insists
that the camera can be used for critical landscape photography, it's just
that innovation comes slow in MF and a lot of old-timers won't trust the
mirror dampening system that the company says eliminates the need for a
manual lock up. The 645n II incorporates a lock-up mechanism, which
suggests that they've given up on trying to sell the dampening system as a
replacement for a tried-and-true manual system.
There you go, a balanced review! Let's see THAT from a Hassy owner! :) M
"Teera" teeraash@loxinfo.co.th wrote
> The subject says it all. Which one do you think is the best?