Mamiya 645 focussing screen

[thebanana]

I'm relatively new to MF, and this camera in particular. I believe I have the standard focussing screen installed, and find that it is difficult to use in low light situations, resulting in less than satifactory low light shots. I'd be interested in hearing from other Mamiya users who have experience with other focussing screens. What other reasonable alternatives are there that are more effective in these situations? Cheers,

John

 

[reellis67]

I'm relatively new to MF, and this camera in particular. I believe I have the standard focussing screen installed, and find that it is difficult to use in low light situations, resulting in less than satifactory low light shots. I'd be interested in hearing from other Mamiya users who have experience with other focussing screens. What other reasonable alternatives are there that are more effective in these situations? Cheers,

John

I like the #4 or #5 screens, which have the split circle focusing feature that I was familar with from my older 35mm SLRs. I believe the #3 grid screen also has this, but I don't own that one (yet) so I can't be sure.

If you put the lens on the A setting, it will be much easier to focus. Mine was on the M setting when I first got it and it took me a day or two to discover that focusing was MUCH easier using that setting. Basicaly, the lens stays wide open until the shutter is tripped, at which time the iris closes to the set aperture to expose the film, and then returns to wide open after the shot. This allows you to focus much more easily indoors.

- Randy

 

[Travis Nunn]

Hi John, I've used the #4 (horizontal split circle) and the #5 (45 degree split circle) and I prefer to use the #5. For me, the diagonal is easier to focus with.

 

[Beachconnection]

Alternative focus screens for Mamiya

John,

You might want to check out Brightscreen ( brightscreen.com ) and Beattie Intenscreen ( intenscreen.com ). Both firms make screens for Mamiya and other cameras. These are also available via the internet from some of the photo outlets.

Jack