Dixiejack
Member
I have been looking at a Bronica RF645 and wonder if anyone uses this camera for studio type photography. I mostly shoot landscape and architectural photos, but occasionally shoot some figure study and enviromental portraits.
N
Nick R.
Guest
The lenses are excellent so I don't see why you couldn't use it in a studio. However, none of the lenses focus close enough for head shots, and the overall lack of lenses available in different focal lengths is limiting. Essentially, there are two lenses available, the 65 and 45mms. If you're lucky, you can find the 100/135.
For a walk-around medium format, the Bronica RF can't be beat. But if you're going to do studio work and you want a used system, I'd look at the Mamiya RB67 series. The prices are low and there are excellent lenses available.
For a walk-around medium format, the Bronica RF can't be beat. But if you're going to do studio work and you want a used system, I'd look at the Mamiya RB67 series. The prices are low and there are excellent lenses available.
Dixiejack
Member
Thanks for the advise. Most of my photography is walk around. What is your opinion of the RF645 (pros and cons)? I do have access to a Nikon D100 that I can use in a studio. I have a Konice Hexar and really like it, but I want to get back into medium format and I want a camera that I can carry with me most of the time. RB's and RZ's are too bulky for that.
RObert Budding
D'oh!
You're going down the path I'm on - the larger MF negatives are amazing! I have a Mamiya 645 Pro TL that is an excellent camera - it's just not very discreet - the shutter makes quite a noise!
I'm planning to purchase an RF 645. And I was lucky enough to find a nice 100mm lens (and I bought it before I even purchased a body).
As for portraiture - I expect that I can take portraits with the RF645, just not tight head shots. But for head shots, I'll use my Pro TL and add an extension tube when needed.
Good luck! FYI there is an RF645 and 65mm lens now on eBay. Otherwise Robert White offers an excellent price on the body, 45mm and 65mm lenses, and a 45mm finder, all for about $1,300.
Robert
Robert
I'm planning to purchase an RF 645. And I was lucky enough to find a nice 100mm lens (and I bought it before I even purchased a body).
As for portraiture - I expect that I can take portraits with the RF645, just not tight head shots. But for head shots, I'll use my Pro TL and add an extension tube when needed.
Good luck! FYI there is an RF645 and 65mm lens now on eBay. Otherwise Robert White offers an excellent price on the body, 45mm and 65mm lenses, and a 45mm finder, all for about $1,300.
Robert
Robert
f/stopblues
photo loner
Dixiejack said:
Dixiejack, you mentioned shooting a lot of landscapes.. Don't forget that the 645 format is set up for vertical frames. If you want the traditional landscape orientation you'll have to flip the camera to the side. May or may not be an issue.. Good luck choosing!
Chris
Dixiejack
Member
Not an issue. I used to shoot a Mamiya 645 and had to turn it to shoot portraits.
Lou Iaquinto
Tinshed
Hi Dixiejack,
I have the RF645 and the three lenses (100) and agree with Nick's comments. I often spend a day shooting with just the 65/45 and it's fantastic for that purpose. I've done some landscapes with the 100 and was very pleased the results.
Nice to meet a fellow Hexar RF user and good luck with your choice.
Lou
I have the RF645 and the three lenses (100) and agree with Nick's comments. I often spend a day shooting with just the 65/45 and it's fantastic for that purpose. I've done some landscapes with the 100 and was very pleased the results.
Nice to meet a fellow Hexar RF user and good luck with your choice.
Lou