Recommendations For a Medium Format Camera

[ColSebastianMoran]

Giving camera as gift. Hmm... Risky.

But, I'll second the idea of a Mamiya TLR. Buy one from KEH and you'll know it will work.

 

[GaryLH]

Since he was looking one time at the bromica rf, a good alternative would be a Fuji 645. They come in both manual focus as well as autofocus. Twin lens mf cameras are not for everyone, could be a bigger risk there...

Gary

PS. Forgot to mention, Fuji 645 folder is nice camera, but if I remember correctly, if u forget to cock shutter before u close it, it will damage the camera. I do not own this camera but I think I read about it on Dante's web site.

 

[Dirk]

Pentacon Six w/80mm 2.8 Biometar is probably the best bang for the buck. I bought mine for $250 on Ebay years ago. It's even cheaper now.

 

[divewizard]

There is a great looking GW690II on sale in the classifieds now for a $450. My GW690 is a great camera that takes great pictures.

 

[Steve M.]

I bought him a Fuji GA645 from Shutterblade w/ a 30 day return privilege for $390 incl shipping. Some cosmetic issues, but not bad. Looks like a very simple camera. No zoom lens, no LCD to go bad on the back, and from what people tell me it's a smidgen smaller than the Bronica. If he wants a Bronica after using the Fuji, he can trade up. I've always wanted to use one of these, so maybe I'll fire off a quick roll before I give it to him.

It was really hard to keep my own desires out of this, as I saw a nice Zeiss Super Ikonta III w/ Novar for $285 on the auction site. That would have been my choice, especially as it's 6x6. Pretty camera, and the Novar lens is fine stopped down.

 

[divewizard]

You will love the Fuji. My GA645zi is the easiest MF camera I have and the one I shoot the most.