The lenses are very, very sharp. The 50mm is unbelievable. The VF is very bright and large which makes composing and focusing in all kind of conditions very easy. The camera is light, silent and easily hand held at half the lens length (shooting 1/30 with the 50 or even 80 mm). No mirror = less vibration. Shutter syncs at any speed. For the majority of pictures (outside of sports, portrait and macro) this camera will out perform most any 35mm and most medium format cameras. It is as easy to use as a PS provides a much larger neg than a 35 and the lenses, although limited to three, are as sharp or sharper than anything else available. Although you can't buy square frame's for your prints at Target®, the square format does allow you to use more of the lens, do your own cropping and you never have to tilt your camera at a 90 degree angle. The collapsible lens mount allows for a very easily packed camera. It is perfect for traveling and hiking. Because it is no longer made and the Mamiya 7 has taken it's place good sample of this camera can be found at very reasonable prices. A body with 50mm lens can be purchased in v good condition for around 1600USD.

Parallax is compounded by the size of the camera. It is very hard to compose and focus quickly with 150mm. The light meter is not that good, nor is it very usable in complex lighting. A meter is a must. This camera could really benefit by having a wider lens (such as the 43mm used by the Mamiya 7). The camera is no longer made so support will eventually go away. The multi format option is a joke. 6x45 does not give you more exposures only masked 6x6. The panoramic option could just as easily be done in the darkroom (who are they kidding?). The Camera does require you to think. For some this is a plus for others not.

If the Meter was better I would give this camera a 5. The Mamiya is a very versatile, Comfortable body with excellent lenses.

Customer Service

Three experiences all good.

Similar Products Used:

Bronica and 'blad