Mamiya 6 = Mama-Mia!

[Ariston]

I just picked up one of these beautiful cameras. No, not one of $1,500 newer ones - one of the old folders. The Type K, with both the 6x6 and 4.5x6 options. I just went on a hike with my son and put my first roll through.

As soon as I saw the negatives, I was smitten. They were SO punchy! From what I understand (I may be wrong) modern lenses tend to have more contrast because of the more modern coatings. I was not expecting the photos I got from this camera. They are not as sharp as my Autocord (to my eyes), but I don't care. I loved the look. Add to that the joy of actually using the camera and its insane compactness, and I am so happy I picked it up.

I will be going on a trip to Jackson Hole with my family soon, and I have been trying to decide on some travel-friendly film cameras to take (two cameras, max). I really think this one is going to end up in my bag.

If any experienced owners of this camera have any tips, I would love to hear it.

 

[bdial]

If you don’t know it’s history, you may want to get it serviced before using it a lot. The shutter jammed up on mine after 7 or 8 rolls, and now it’s in my queue of stuff waiting for repair.

 

[removed account4]

Great camera !! Have fun with it.

 

[RalphLambrecht]

I just picked up one of these beautiful cameras. No, not one of $1,500 newer ones - one of the old folders. The Type K, with both the 6x6 and 4.5x6 options. I just went on a hike with my son and put my first roll through.

As soon as I saw the negatives, I was smitten. They were SO punchy! From what I understand (I may be wrong) modern lenses tend to have more contrast because of the more modern coatings. I was not expecting the photos I got from this camera. They are not as sharp as my Autocord (to my eyes), but I don't care. I loved the look. Add to that the joy of actually using the camera and its insane compactness, and I am so happy I picked it up.

I will be going on a trip to Jackson Hole with my family soon, and I have been trying to decide on some travel-friendly film cameras to take (two cameras, max). I really think this one is going to end up in my bag.
It's my favorite medium format travel camera and the lenses rival my Hasselblad lenses.
If any experienced owners of this camera have any tips, I would love to hear it.