The 11 Best Medium Format Film Cameras to Buy in 2024
Most Unique Medium Format Camera: Makina 67
It doesn’t get much more unique than this. The Plaubel Makina 67 is a rare and highly sought-after medium format rangefinder camera. It features a fixed 80mm lens, renowned for its exceptional sharpness and bokeh. The Makina 67’s folding design and compact size make it a great portable medium format option. Loved by landscape, travel, and street photographers, the Makina 67 delivers outstanding image quality and a distinct shooting experience.
Release Date: 1981
Body Material: Metal
Modes: Fully Manual
Lens: Fixed Nikkor 80/2.8 lens
Aperture Range: f/2.8 to f/22
Shutter Speed: 1 to 1/500 second, Bulb
Average Price on eBay: $2,000
A Note on Price: Film camera prices are prone to swings as particular cameras become trendy or hard to find. It’s difficult to pin one price to each of the medium format cameras here, which are often available bundled with accessories and lenses that make them more expensive. The prices we’ve listed with each camera here are averages based on what we’ve observed these cameras selling for on eBay, but don’t be surprised if you see a different number when you start shopping.
Is medium format better than 35mm?
Most photographers consider medium format to be better than 35mm because of the higher image quality due to larger film size, which provides better resolution and detail. However, 35mm is more portable and versatile, especially point and shoot cameras.
What are the disadvantages of medium format cameras?
The main disadvantage of medium format cameras is their size, bulk, and limited film capacity (120 film often only allows 12 to 15 frames per roll, vs 36 frames on a roll of 35mm). Medium format cameras are also often more expensive than 35mm cameras. They often have slower shooting speeds and fewer automatic features, which can slow down operation. Additionally, medium format cameras have limited depth of field flexibility and typically come with more expensive lenses.
How much does it cost to develop a film?
Depending on where you life and your access to local film labs, developing a roll of film can cost anywhere from $10 to $20. Check out our guide to mail-in film developing labs for some great suggestions across North America.
Source: https://fieldmag.herokuapp.com/articles/best-medium-format-film-cameras
