Medium Format Cameras: Please Help

So, i just got into an experimental photo class and the teacher recommends a medium format camera. I know nothing about them and need some info. I wasnt looking to spend that much and kind of like the classicness of the TLRs. How much should i be looking to pay and what should i be looking for?

I would double check with your teacher if a TLR is going to fit the bill for your classes. I would suggest spending time on something like ebay where the prices for some reputable medium format cameras can be very little to expensive. Did he say what film size he wanted, 645, 6x7,6x6.

You need to be cautious when looking at prices for some of these versus what you are wanting. I looked at an older Mamiya 645 that was priced around 400.00 with a couple of lenses but it didn't have a light meter in it. Many of these cameras the TTL metering was an option you could buy.

Good luck.

i found a yashica D for $110 shipped on Ebay. it uses 6x6 film. and as far as metering goes, i can use my dslr to meter the situation then take the pic with the tlr. not too worried. sound like a good deal? the teach said get what ever you can find. it is an experimental class so she wants us to experiment.

How much are you willing to spend?

A SLR will be a lot easier to work with than a TLR.

i already have a digital slr and a 35mm film slr. im kind of excited to go retro and have to work for my picture. im a little spoiled by the slrs

ended up with the yashica :-\ couldnt pass up on the deal. hopefully it works out

ssim wrote in post #9409238
You need to be cautious when looking at prices for some of these versus what you are wanting. I looked at an older Mamiya 645 that was priced around 400.00 with a couple of lenses but it didn't have a light meter in it. Many of these cameras the TTL metering was an option you could buy.

Good luck.

Price aside, it takes about 20 seconds to yank the "non metered" viewfinder assy off a 645 and replace it with a metered one


Maybe you should get some clarification from this instructor, or maybe you need to look for a different class. I can't imagine a photo class specifying medium format for a basic class UNLESS it is in fact geared toward----medium or large format use.

I recently picked up a M645 1000S and several lenses and other accessories with a nice case for 4 bills US, but I see no need to spend that kind of money for a photo class.

it isnt a beginner photo class. more like a mid level, a 300 level at my school. I already have 4 35mm cameras and have taken my beginner and secondary level classes. I am just diverging into the film realm beyond 35mm

Getting the yashica is one of the best thing you might have done for yourself in term of photography.

I don't know why people are so scared of medium format. I shoot medium format pretty regularly and it's a blast for me. Hope you enjoy it. Careful, you might never go back to digi.