Bronica SQ questions

[BetterSense]

Can I use 120 film in 220 SQ backs? I know this works fine with Mamiya backs.

What exactly do I need to build an SQ system (body, back, insert?, finder etc).

 

[DWThomas]

Can I use 120 film in 220 SQ backs? I know this works fine with Mamiya backs.

What exactly do I need to build an SQ system (body, back, insert?, finder etc).

You probably can; there are two problems. The first is unlike 220, 120 has paper backing over its entire length which means it's going to be thicker. That could lead to a bit of stress winding the film thru, or mess up the spacing between frames a bit.

The second is that 220 will assume 24 exposures so you'll have to keep an eye on the frame count and then do a trick to wind the film thru without taking frames 13, 14 and 15 thru 24 on the paper trailer.

You need a body (ideally with crank and focus screen), a back with insert, a viewfinder and most essentially, a lens (unless you want to do pinhole ).

I quite enjoy mine -- I originally planned to go minimalist -- one body, one back, a WLF and an 80mm lens, but alas, I've had a few GAS attacks since.

 

[hoffy]

According to this page, yes, you can:

Dead Link Removed

Pay particular attention to the bit about loading the film!

 

[Alex Muir]

There have been previous posts about using 120 in 220 backs. You could try searching the archives to see if anyone has done it successfully with an SQ. I would aim to get a 120 back to keep things simple. A large number of bodies on the used market seem to lack cranks, which can be expensive to buy separately. I use my SQA without a crank. I just use the connecting pin to turn the mech. It's crude, but it works!
Alex.

 

[doughowk]

120 backs are relatively expensive compared to the 220s, but they are worth the price.
I bought a complete camera system on ePray. After alot of wasted film trying to track down an intermittent issue, I replaced most of the system with modules from KEH. Wish I had gone that route in the beginning.

 

[ParkerSmithPhoto]

KEH is the way to go. If it doesn't work you can send it right back.

You need a body with a waist level finder (or buy a prism finder), one lens and one back. They have a sale today for 15% of with coupon code LUCKY15. Cant beat that.

BTW I have a 150mm SQ lens I will sell you for cheapcheapcheap. PM me if interested.

 

[hsandler]

Yes, I have put 120 through my 220 back. After taking the 12th photo, just wind on and press the shutter release and repeat a few times until the film is wound completely onto the take up reel. You will feel the winding becomes easier when it does. I have not found the difference in film thickness with the backing paper to cause any issues.