Pretty much the same as the other Mamiya 645 versions except that the viewer is fixed and the camera uses a film insert rather than interchangeable backs. The viewer is bright and the dioptric adjustment is nice and easy to access and set. The important thing is it uses the exact same lenses as the other models so there's no difference in image quality. I tend to shoot a full roll so switching backs not a big deal for me anyway. If you don't need waist level viewing or ttl flash metering for handheld type flashes I think this is a good choice since they tend to go for quite a bit less than the pro or pro TL. I think getting one that has had less use on it is likely as well since maybe less chance was heavily used compared to the other versions.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I know the title sounds like a stretch... But after personally using 35mm slrs/rfs, 645s, 6x6, 6x7s, 6x9s...(from Yashica Electros to Mamiya 7s), this is the best all around camera period. Let me tell you why. Though this camera is a starter camera, it really keeps things simple. Has full AE, cheap but very sharp line of AN lenses, smallest 645 slr that I know of, semi-modular with wind grip, spot on metering, clicky not easily moveable diopter, very bright and clear eypiece (even thought it has a simple mirror no prism), and batteries last a life time. Yes, there are a lot of compromises to the camera, and it does weigh three pounds but if you're like me that likes to shoot weddings, go packpacking, use for family events, do spontaneous photoshoots with friends, causal street photography, nature photography, and multi-exposure/night photography, this camera is perfect for you. If you're professionally trying to get into one or more of these kinds of generes then that's where you'll need a specific camera. But I believe this is the best mamiya that has the smallest and lightest footprint, has enough resolution to capture good engough detail, and is one of the newest slr systems (possibly one of the most reliable). Just give it a try!Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I really enjoy this camera. It is NOT built pro tough. plastic body and the "rapid winder" attachment is a bit flimsy feeling. Plus, it takes TWO sweeps of the lever to advance the film, hardly "rapid" winding. Also, the rapid winder attachment covers the hole on the shutter release where a remote cable attaches. So, to use a remote shutter release, the winder attachment has to be removed. What I REALLY wish the camera had is an electronic self timer. Those nits aside, the camera performs well. Metering is accurate, and I love the manual focus and aperture priority exposure. I feel like *I* am "making" a photo again, instead of the latest whiz bang digital SLR doing all the thinking for me. Film loading is easy, and developing of the 120 format film can be done relatively cheaply if you shop around. This camera supports no type of through the lens flash exposure, so you will either have to do your flash f stop settings based on guide number, or get a flash with auto exposure built into the flash. Metz makes an inexpensive unit that works well. I use this camera for my own personal pleasure. It is NOT a camera you would want to use for weddings or fast moving sports. For that type of situation, a good DSLR is still hard to beat, but if you want the immense pleasure of feeling like a real photographer and the wonderful quality of medium format film, this camera is about as good as it gets. The multi exposure capability allows some really creative photo compositions. Also has mirror lock up, and it is VERY necessary at slower shutter speeds, as the mirror slap is VERY loud and intense. No being discrete with this camera! Get it and have FUN with true photography again rather than an excercise in electronics.Read full review
The Mamiya 645E medium format (6x4.5) will provide images superior to those of 35mm SLR's and DSLR's. Face it, if you want good images, you'll have to use a brick-like camera. Everyone will know that you mean business when you unveil this ungainly but large-lensed medium format camera.
This is a GREAT camera that takes awesome pictures!!!! It does a great job, and it was a very smart investment .
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