Hasselblad Vs. Mamiya 7II: What would you do?

[bob338]

I bought a like new Hasselblad 503cw from the classifieds a few weeks ago. I've shot quite a few rolls but I just don't think I'm getting along with this camera. It's big, heavy, loud and I can't get used to the reversed image in the waist level finder. I bought a 45 prism for it but that doesn't make me like it much more.
In spite of its 'faults,' the negatives are amazing! I have a 60mm and an 80mm that are tack sharp across the whole negative. It is also pretty simple to use, there aren't many things to screw up, and the way the system is set up with backs, finders, etc is genius.
But I can't help thinking I would be happier using an RF. I have a tentative trade worked out for a Mamiya 7II with a kit 80mm for my 503cw with the kit 80mm. They seem to be selling for about the same amount of money.

So, what would you do? Any insights appreciated...

Bob

 

[summicron2020]

Do the trade. There is nothing wrong with preferring eye level rangefinder shooting to waist level SLR shooting.

I prefer my Hasselblads but do occasionally use a Fuji rangefinder.

 

[benlees]

It is always 6 of this or 1/2 dozen of that when comparing cameras. I'm a big M7 fan: it is relatively small (light), fits in the hand beautifully, is very quiet, and is very quick to use. The wides are damn expensive, and 6x7 in more real estate than I need, so I sold mine. The Hasselblad is much more versatile system and the square is nice. But very clunky. I just wish the Mamiya 6 prices hadn't leapt into the stratosphere!

 

[bwcolor]

You give up close focus. The Mamiya lenses are superb and the negative gives you even more. I like the rangefinder and have two Mamiyas. I never had a Hasselblad, but have an ETRsi, which I don't use except for close in portraits.

 

[Don Parsons]

It, to me, all depends upon how you "see."

I don't see square, problem solved.

 

[gavinlg]

I'd go the mamiya if you're struggling with the waist level SLR thing. The mamiya 7ii lenses are some of the best in MF - you won't have any problems there.

 

[x-ray]

If you ever think you might want to go MF digital then the Hasselblad is the answer. Multiple backs are a big plus for me plus a wider selection of premium glass. You'll find more and better priced glass for the Hasselblad. I've not owned a Mamiya 7 but I understand they're great but my style of shooting is better suited for an SLR. IMO you can't get any better glass than Zeiss MF optics. I own Hasselblads and a nice selection of glass and shot on the CFV39 (39mp) digital back. At 100% they are way beyond my expectations.

 

[bigeye]

Do the trade. There is nothing wrong with preferring eye level rangefinder shooting to waist level SLR shooting.

I prefer my Hasselblads but do occasionally use a Fuji rangefinder.

X2

They're apples and oranges to me. Different uses.

 

[flip]

I have long wanted a hassie, primarily because I see balancing 'things' in the finder. I wonder if the upside down square is not suiting you because you engage the subjects more personally, for what they are. (just babbling....)

 

[Lflex]

The Hasselblad is designed for studio/tripod use. The 7 for handheld use. IMO get the equipment with ergonomics that fits your shooting style.

 

[bob338]

If you ever think you might want to go MF digital then the Hasselblad is the answer. Multiple backs are a big plus for me plus a wider selection of premium glass. You'll find more and better priced glass for the Hasselblad. I've not owned a Mamiya 7 but I understand they're great but my style of shooting is better suited for an SLR. IMO you can't get any better glass than Zeiss MF optics. I own Hasselblads and a nice selection of glass and shot on the CFV39 (39mp) digital back. At 100% they are way beyond my expectations.

This is a big consideration for me, I'm already thinking about a digital back. I would be ready to take the plunge if I were more comfortable with the SLR style of shooting, but I'm not there yet.

 

[bob338]

X2

They're apples and oranges to me. Different uses.

I get that they're different beasts, but if you had to choose one medium format system which would it be?

 

[pgeobc]

You really should have one of each. 😀

 

[jan normandale]

I've a 'blad and an M6 which is different from the M7 but only in lens retraction and 66 vs 67 format.

The Mamiya is great for street shooting where you don't want to take time ie 60 seconds vs 30 seconds framing and exposing. I have the 150, 75 and 50 mm lenses and these are all excellent lenses. The Mamiya 7's lens array includes a 42 and a 90 which are not available to the M6. However the M7 does require separate viewfinders for some of the lenses so it can become a "fussy" camera to use because to use the appropriate lens you have to keep track of the corresponding viewfinders.

The 'blad is definitely louder however I've never considered it an issue. On the street few people hear the shutter/mirror unless they are within 8 - 10 feet of the camera. The 'blad's glass is far more affordable compared to the Mamiya 7 lenses and the ability to change films mid stride is a benefit I utilize regularly. Both these cameras have idiosyncrasies that I can live with and I'm not sure I'd drop either.

Maybe sell some 35 mm cameras and buy the M7 while keeping the Hasselblad. The 60 mm lens is a star and the 80 is a proven classic. They both are suited to different styles of shooting. Perhaps you need to choose the least used style to make a decision. I know I won't be selling either of mine.

 

[rpilottx]

I just started using SLR's again after years with rangefinders. I have a blad and just acquired a Leica R6.2. I am amazed at the versatility of SLR's vs Rangefinders and am really enjoying the change. However, I will not be selling the M anytime soon.

Obviously, both systems are great and each has strong points. I suspect only you can decide unless you buy both.

 

[skibeerr]

IMO they are not exclusive but complementary.

 

[Steve M.]

I'd buy a Rolleiflex w/ a 3.5 Planar lens and sell the 'blad. Should put a LOT of money back in the kitty, and you'll get better IQ, in my experiences anyway.

 

[Frank Petronio]

Haha it is classic to suggest something else but you have a point, a Rollei is the better handheld option if you prefer mirror/groundglass focusing. It may be the best travel-street-outdoor camera ever.

Plus the absolute decisiveness of sticking to one lens and the square format -- and the extra cash and freedom from not having so many possessions and complications -- may make you a better photographer.

It's also compact, quiet, and the build quality puts the other brands to shame.

Personally, I've had the Mamiya 6, Blads, and Rolleis. The Rolleis made the best pictures and garnered the warmest welcomes.

Why not try one? If you feel guilty that you make your best shots with a 60-year old $500 Rolleiflex C, buy a second one for back-up, get a Maxwell screen installed, look for a RolleiWide, etc.

 

[bigeye]

I get that they're different beasts, but if you had to choose one medium format system which would it be?

Hasselblad, as per signature.

But, the Hassy is a more cumbersome, broad system, whereas the Mam 7 is essentially a body and 3 lenses.

Versatility vs. Handiness.

I think the Mam 7 is the best travel camera made, but went with versatility. I added the Superwide for, uh, super wide, and it uses the same filters, prisms, backs and focusing screens and can be a backup camera (sort of) to the kit, which fits conveniently into a 50lb Pelican case, with wheels. The Mamiya system will fit in a Domke. Suburban vs. Corvette/Range Rover vs Porsche.

- Charlie

 

[elude]

I get that they're different beasts, but if you had to choose one medium format system which would it be?

I'd go with the one I have a special feeling with.
My hasselblad 501 for instance, I use it for studio shots, or staged portraits. If I want to feel free to move, I get the Leica or borrow a Mamiya 7II.