Its high time I wrote an article on this wonderful beast of a camera. Through the dangers of eBay, I got this after lusting after it for about 4 months. A very decent copy from Tokyo, Japan, outfitted with the fastest Medium Format lens from Mamiya, the Sekor 110/2.8. This is a wonderful piece of glass. Its compact and fast with lovely bokeh (out of focus areas).

People term this camera a studio camera, where its labelled as too clumsy and heavy to work outdoors. I beg to differ. Its a pure machine. The viewing glass is magnificent, the focus knobs are well placed, not to mention that they have two, one on each side of the camera. This is very good for various people who like to focus with either hand and not be constrained.

Yes, I agree that its a tad heavy as compared to the Hassalblad 500cm. Well, thats a camera with a 6x6 format, this Mamiya is a 6x7 with a rotating back. What does a rotating back do?

It allows you the convenience of rotating from Portrait to Landscape orientation with a flick of a switch and a twist of your wrist. The already kick-ass viewfinder then has an auto masking ability to show you its current orientation. How cool can it get?

Comments for this camera can get pretty harsh. About its unwieldiness, bulk and its electronics. Costing an average of US$800 for the lens,body and a film back, I'd say it gives the Mamiya 6,7ii and even the Hassalblads a good run for their money. Yes, you may say that its not fair a comparison, where the Mamiya 7 is a Rangefinder, and the Hassalblad is a...well Hassalblad.

The focus for this portrait could be a little off, but look at the contrast of this lens! There has been no Post Processing done on this image. Granted that the Acros is a relatively high contrast film, the detail is stunning.

Now, who says this is has to be a studio camera? :)

I lug it on the streets without a monopod or a tripod and it kicks-ass just fine.

If I remember correctly, this should be shot on Ilford's wonderful Delta 400 film, processed with Ilford DDX.

How about some colour? Here's a sample shot with Provia 100F, I think this is shot at F8.

I love slides mainly for their colour accuracy, but the cost of developing them is driving me insane. Nevermind the cost of the film itself. The details of this film is lovely, and if the exposure is accurate, it really gives digital formats something to think about.