C220 Focus Question

jmal · Feb 19, 2010

I just acquired a C220 in immaculate condition and noticed something I have never seen before: the camera seems to be able to focus to infinity and then goes out of focus again when the bellows are drawn the the last 5mm toward the body. I have not yet developed any film from the camera, so I don't know if this is a problem or not. Is this common among some cameras or is the focus most likely out of adjustment on my camera? I guess I'll find out on Sunday when I develop some film. I figured I'd get a head start and ask here. Thanks.

MattKing · Feb 19, 2010

jmal:

The Mamiya C series TLRs (and the RB67/RZ67) cameras rely on the camera's bellows for focussing, rather than a focus mount built into the lens. As they are designed to be used with a variety of lenses, each lens will focus to infinity with different extension to the bellows. For that reason, what you observe is normal - if it didn't occur, the shorter lenses might not focus to infinity.

Have fun with your camera.

Matt

jmal · Feb 19, 2010

Thanks. That makes sense and confirms my own logical machinations. I have to say, if this camera tests okay once I develop some film on Sunday, I'll be really happy. It looks a bit crude to my eyes, but it feels like a very well made camera. I am very impressed with the feel of the aperture ring, focus knobs, film advance, and shutter cocking lever. They all feel precise and leave a good feeling when operating them. I have been hunting for the "perfect" Rolleiflex, and I bought this C220 as a temporary fix, but it may turn out to be the end of the hunt. We'll see.

fschifano · Feb 20, 2010

It may very well be. The Mamiya C220 and C330 cameras are great picture makers and they're rugged as all get out. Not svelte and sexy like a Rollieflex, they just get the job done and done well with more than competent glass and greater flexibility. Try doing close focus work with a Rollie without a hard to find and expensive accessory. It ain't happening. With the Mamiya, all you need do is rack out the bellows, compensate your exposure for the bellows factor (there's a built in exposure compensation guide so you don't have to guess), and you're there.

mgb74 · Feb 20, 2010

The C series Mamiya TLRs really epitomize "form follows function".

If, as fschifano suggests, you try macro work, you may want to look for a Mamiya "paramender". It's a devise that adjusts for parallax when doing close ups. Used with a tripod, it raises the camera so that the taking lens moves to the same position as the viewing lens.

jmal · Feb 20, 2010

mgb74 said:
The C series Mamiya TLRs really epitomize "form follows function".

That definitely true. The exposed linkage for the shutter release/cable release assembly illustrates this very well.

C220 Focus Question

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