loading Mamiya 6/7 for weddings

[nikon_junkie]

I'm looking at ditching my Bronica system for possibly a Mamiya RF.

Do you load it like a manual 35mm SLR, or is there an insert for the back like on my Bronica GS1?

I was going to use it for high speed B+W, possibly formals, and on a flash bracket at receptions. Mainly shooting F/11 or thereabouts using hyperfocal focusing.

Given only ten shots per roll I would need a quick loading body.

Any comments would be appreciated...

 

[JeffGreene]

I own a 6, and there is no back that I am aware of. There are also issues around close-up portraiture. I defer to other more knowledgeable members, but I do not believe there is a back.

 

[FrankS]

My Mamiya 6 loads like a 35, ie. no insert for the back that can be preloaded. The issue of close-up shots can be dealt with simple enlargement of the frame. The lens is so sharp, enlarging a 35mm sized portion of the entire frame is no problem at all.

 

[back alley]

i don't think you can load it too quick with it on a flash bracket.
can't remember exactly why...


joe

 

[Doug]

Choose 220 film rather than 120, and get 24 exposures in the mamiya 6 or 20 in the 7. Many pro-level films can be had in 220; I just wish Ilford's offerings were among 'em.

 

[FrankS]

You're right, Joe. A flsh bracket covers the bottom of the camera where the film spool releases need to pop out to switch out the spools. I just use a tall flash unit (Viv.283/5) on the camera's hotshoe. There is less modelling effect than if the flash were higher as with a flash bracket but I use it for fill rather than main light anyway. A flash bracket that places the flash over to the side can cause ugly flash shadow behing/to the side of the subject so I use flash directly over the lens.

 

[tom7ii]

I would say that loading time is very much slower than 35mm.... Though, I think with a bit more practice, I could improve. It is would none the less be several times slower.

 

[naturephoto1]

Mamiya 6/7

Mamiya 6/7

If you are considering either camera and since the flash bracket interferes with the film release button, consider using a quick release system, like an Arca Swiss type, to load and unload the camera from the flash bracket. 😉

Rich

http://www.nelridge.com

richard@nelridge.com