If you’re a film photographer looking for a medium format camera, you’ve probably come across the Pentax 67 and the Mamiya 7.
Both are iconic cameras with their unique strengths and weaknesses.
In this article, we’ll compare the Pentax 67 vs. Mamiya 7 in terms of features, image quality, handling, and price, so you can make an informed decision.
Introduction
Medium format cameras have always been a popular choice among professional photographers for their superior image quality, tonality, and resolution. However, choosing the right medium format camera can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to film photography. The Pentax 67 and Mamiya 7 are two of the most sought-after medium format cameras on the market, and in this article, we’ll compare them in detail, so you can make the right choice.
Overview of the Pentax 67 and Mamiya 7
The Pentax 67 was introduced in 1969 and quickly became a favorite of many professional photographers due to its robust build quality, ergonomics, and image quality. It’s a 6x7cm medium format SLR camera that uses 120 and 220 roll film. The Pentax 67 has a fixed prism viewfinder and a waist-level finder that can be switched with ease. It’s a heavy camera, weighing around 2.6 kg with a lens attached.
On the other hand, the Mamiya 7 was introduced in 1995 and is a rangefinder-style medium format camera. It’s a 6x7cm camera that uses 120 roll film and has a fixed 80mm f/4 lens. The Mamiya 7 is a lightweight camera, weighing only 1.2 kg, making it an ideal camera for travel and street photography.
Features and Specs Comparison
When it comes to features and specs, the Pentax 67 and Mamiya 7 have their unique strengths and weaknesses. Here’s a detailed comparison:
Pentax 67
- Film Format: 120/220 roll film (6x7cm)
- Lens Mount: Pentax 6×7 mount
- Viewfinder: Fixed prism viewfinder, waist-level finder
- Shutter Speeds: 1s to 1/1000s + B
- ISO Range: 6 – 3200
- Mirror Lockup: Yes
- Exposure Modes: Manual, aperture-priority AE, and TTL metered manual
Mamiya 7
- Film Format: 120 roll film (6x7cm)
- Lens Mount: Fixed 80mm f/4 lens
- Viewfinder: Brightline rangefinder
- Shutter Speeds: 4s to 1/500s + B
- ISO Range: 25 – 1600
- Mirror Lockup: No
- Exposure Modes: Manual, aperture-priority AE, and TTL flash
Image Quality Comparison
Both the Pentax 67 and Mamiya 7 produce exceptional image quality, but they have their unique characteristics. The Pentax 67 produces images with a distinct, classic medium format look with a shallow depth of field, while the Mamiya 7 produces images with more depth and sharpness due to its fixed lens. However, the Pentax 67 has a more extensive range of aperture settings and interchangeable lenses, allowing for more creative control over the final image.
In terms of resolution, both cameras are capable of producing sharp and detailed images, but the Pentax 67 has a larger negative size, resulting in more detail and tonality. However, the Mamiya 7’s fixed lens produces edge-to-edge sharpness, making it ideal for landscape and architectural photography.
Handling Comparison
Handling is an essential factor when it comes to film photography, and both the Pentax 67 and Mamiya 7 have their unique handling characteristics. The Pentax 67 is a heavy camera, making it challenging to carry for extended periods, but it has a comfortable grip, a well-placed shutter release button, and an easy-to-use waist-level finder. The Pentax 67’s mirror lockup feature also helps reduce camera shake, resulting in sharper images.
The Mamiya 7, on the other hand, is a lightweight camera that’s easy to carry around, making it an ideal camera for travel and street photography. It has a brightline rangefinder that makes it easy to focus on the subject, and its fixed lens allows for quick and easy composition. However, the lack of interchangeable lenses may limit its creative possibilities for some photographers.
Price Comparison
Price is always a significant factor when it comes to purchasing a camera, and both the Pentax 67 and Mamiya 7 are relatively expensive compared to other medium format cameras. However, the Pentax 67 is generally less expensive than the Mamiya 7, especially when considering the cost of lenses.
A used Pentax 67 body can be found for around $800-$1,000, while a used Mamiya 7 body can be found for around $1,500-$2,000. Lenses for the Pentax 67 are also generally less expensive, with a used 105mm f/2.4 lens costing around $500-$700, while a used 80mm f/4 lens for the Mamiya 7 can cost upwards of $1,000.
Conclusion
Both the Pentax 67 and Mamiya 7 are excellent medium format cameras with their unique strengths and weaknesses. The Pentax 67 is a robust and versatile camera that’s capable of producing classic medium format images with a wide range of lenses and aperture settings. On the other hand, the Mamiya 7 is a lightweight and compact camera with a fixed lens that produces sharp and detailed images, making it ideal for travel and street photography.
When it comes to choosing between the Pentax 67 vs. Mamiya 7, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and shooting style. If you’re looking for a camera with more creative control and versatility, the Pentax 67 is an excellent choice. If you’re looking for a lightweight and compact camera with a fixed lens that produces sharp and detailed images, the Mamiya 7 may be the right choice for you.
FAQs
- Can I use other lenses with the Mamiya 7?
- No, the Mamiya 7 has a fixed 80mm f/4 lens and is not compatible with other lenses.
- Is the Pentax 67 a good camera for portrait photography?
- Yes, the Pentax 67 is an excellent camera for portrait photography due to its shallow depth of field and ability to use a variety of lenses.
- Is the Pentax 67 compatible with 220 roll film?
- Yes, the Pentax 67 is compatible with both 120 and 220 roll film.
- Can I shoot handheld with the Pentax 67?
- Yes, the Pentax 67 is a heavy camera, but it’s possible to shoot handheld with it. However, using a tripod or a monopod can help reduce camera shake and result in sharper images.
- Is the Mamiya 7 a good camera for landscape photography?
- Yes, the Mamiya 7’s fixed 80mm f/4 lens produces edge-to-edge sharpness, making it an excellent choice for landscape photography.