Mamiya Six
This camera is a result of too much time in forums on the internet. I wasn’t going to get another folder but suddenly got all excited when I found out these are a rangefinder. At the time I was well in my rangefinder period of my journey so it seemed only sensible to buy one of these.
I have no regrets buying it, but this particular one has a few sins I need to sort before using it regularly. So this project will only speed up the work that needs doing – more tidy up stuff than anything.
My purchase came with a case, a set of clip filters and a “Auto up” close up attachment, can’t wait to test them all out. The more I look into it the more I realise what a clever design it was for its time.
Some general information
- Does it have an industry nickname – not really
- Why was it the darling of the camera scene – A rangefinder focus folder that fit in your coat pocket
- Pigeon hole it sits in – Rangefinder folder in medium format
- Special feature – Size and rangefinder capability
- Lightmeter – One must use a separate hand held
What is my connection to the camera?
- Why did it catch my interest – Rangefinder folder
- How did I acquire it – Online purchase
- What uses have I put it to – Travelling with the C220
- Why this particular unit – It was affordable because it is not perfect
- Unique things I discovered – Will do 220 film as well
- Where does it sit in my level of obsession – around the middle, I am still bonding with it, this will happen when I tidy it up and can trust that my films will be fine.
Overview of camera form and functions
- Loading – not an easy affair while out and about
- Focusing – very clear and easy rangefinder
- Exposure adjustment – manual shutter and aperture controls
- General handling – light and simple, easy to hold
I discovered three things while using this camera. It will punish you hard with torn film if you put the pressure plate in the wrong way. This particular camera needs the internals cleaned as it is dropping spots all over the film. I spent hours in post cleaning up the spots
The lens has lost its contrast coating – if it ever had one – so I really struggled with getting that crisp medium format pop from this unit.
It will go into the box along with the Zeiss to go off and be assessed.