My Experience w/ Mamiya 645 | Long Term Film Camera Review

SUPPORT THE CHANNEL ON PATREON! ( / robbiemaynardcreates )
If you enjoyed the video, hit the like button and be sure to Subscribe and Share this video! The links below will take you to my Etsy shop where you will be able to find some of the cameras featured in these videos. If you're a fellow youtuber, consider using the link for MusicBed below for a Free Trial - You wont regret it!
MUSIC:
The Music heard in this video is from Musicbed - for a one month free trial, use the link below!
www.musicbed.c...
GEAR USED:
Camera: Fuji XT4
Lens: 16-55 f2.8 Fujinon
Audio: Zoom H5
OUR INSTAGRAM ACCOUNTS:
@RobbieMaynardCreates
@Em.Amber

[@leeo.alexander2324]

I don't know how I missed this video, but it is good. I got my first Mamiya 645 while stationed in Germany (1977-1980). I got it through my local military exchange called Sight and Sound. The camera, with insert, 80mm lens, and prism was marked at $360.00. Called the wife and asked her if I could get it. The manager told the clerk that it had to be sold at the price shown. For some reason, someone forgot to put the 1($1000) as the first number. I really came out on top with this buy. I made the mistake and sold the camera around 1983. Now I have about four different 645s manual models that are working. Also, have about five of them in various states of repair. My best lens is the 80mm 1.9. I also have an AF with three lenses that are really nice. As far as I am concerned M645 is probably the best medium format cameras' ever made. I may be partial, but then that is my story. Keep the great work up.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you for sharing, Lee!

[@ChrisMarxen]

I can only say it the and time again, you're SOOOO good on camera brother. Really enjoyed the episode.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I always appreciate your comments, my dude!

[@sebastianfichtner1876]

I really, really like how relaxed and down-tp-earth your videos are! Awesome work, thank you!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you, Sebastian!

[@behindeachfilmgrain]

The best compliment from law enforcement “make sure to get my good side” These are great photos Robbie! Stay safe and continue shooting documentary style as most of my style is about the same and I switch it up from time to time.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you buddy! Will do :)

[@Chrizzowski]

Great shots! Love the documentary style. Been debating getting a M645 for awhile now for backpacking and landscapes. Used to have a 6x7 but like you said they're so heavy. Think you may have convinced me to pull the trigger. Keep up the good work.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

portability is always something I find to be the make or break

[@romgostomski1677]

The Mamiya 645 is my favourite film camera. I have the 1000s and the mirror lockup is definitely worth having. Great video. You nailed all the good points of the camera. Excellent. Thank you

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you very much! the mirror lockup would be nice, for sure

[@happysnapper3676]

In my neck of the woods we call them "the ROZZERS" among other things. Loving the work Robbie.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

LOL

[@joemurray8902]

HAHAHAH it was really funny, I was watching your pics at the beginning and the one of the canal, I thought the water was moving and it was your video not a pic! I had to give my head a shake. I just got a 1000s and look forward to getting back into film. Love the video.

[@mellangatang]

Robbie Maynard, Grainy Days, and Bad Flashes videos all on the same day!?! Best Thanksgiving ever!

[@coach_yo]

The best there is, best there was, best there ever will be

[@tombruzo1494]

That needle shot was insane

[@ldstirling]

I can fully recommend the 150mm f/3.5 lens for portrait shooting on the M645. Its about a 90mm equivalent in 35mm. You won't have to stand nearly as far away as with a 210mm.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Good to know! I just prefer wider lenses. I love how compact they are too

[@philippelitzler9168]

I have the 645 1000s, and I love the camera and lens as well. But they are also reliant in batteries..... Not fully mechanical as you alude to. The shutter is electronically activated.

[@pancakelens75]

I also have the 1000s and what a wonderful camera!

[@marktupper2375]

I had a Pro and a Super with 35, 55, 80 and 150 lenses, all now long gone - the 35mm was an awesome piece of kit !

[@rpdee7344]

8/20-23 I own 2 of the Mamiya 645 bodies & various lenses, but also the light meter penta prism that I back up with a hand-held Minolta light meter. I shoot all film size formats from 135mm to a 4x5 Speed Graphic, depending on the subject matter and needs will determine which format I use. I do like the Mamiya 645 for portraits and scenic the amount of details and being able to make larger prints is a great plus when darkroom printing compared to 135mm negatives. I have also used the 645 for wedding photography with flash where the action is more controlled making it easy to get great shots that look and feel more professional. I do agree the weight of a 645 setup is between 135mm and a larger format affects how you compose in the viewfinder by slowing you down to really compose the images instead of burning many frames as you would on a 135 camera.

[@redrick7735]

Great contribution. Thinking about the Mamiya 1000s. I like the pure mechanical aspect.

[@rustandmagic]

Still need a battery though

[@keithsanders6554]

You said you preferred the M645 and 645J because they were mechanical. I had both of these and the they needed a battery for the shutter to operate - so not purely mechanical. I enjoyed the my 645 Super for its interchangeable backs. Best lens for the 645 system is the 110mm f/2.8 Sekor but they are rare to find,.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Really? My M645J doesn't even have a battery in it haha I appreciate the comment, Keith

[@keithsanders6554]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates Have a look at this video. 7 minutes in he shows you the battery compartment. He actually knows what he is talking about. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZ-0gHdnbp18bM0&ab_channel=PhotoMeLarry

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

@@keithsanders6554 I am referencing the 645j. The 1000s needs a battery for the higher shutter speed

[@keithsanders6554]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates I am sorry but I have to disagree. I owned the 645J, M645 and 645 Super. EACH ONE NEEDS A BATTERY. You may not think iyour 645J has a battery but if you look underneath you will see the battery door. Watch the video I linked to and you will see. If you still do not believe me, you will find out when your shutter opens but will not close. Some models have an orange dot on the On/Off ring - that position provides 1/90th sec mechanical shutter in case of battery failure but a battery is need for all other speeds. I used my 645s for 24 years so I do know what I am talking about. If you still do not believe me - so be it. Saying that the 645J and M645 do not use a battery and that the 1000s needs one for the hgher speeds is totally wrong. Get to know your equipment properly before you start spreading misinformation. That is my last word on the subject..

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

​@@keithsanders6554 ok, keith. You win. Sorry Senpai.

[@edinburghtumuran916]

Great review. Just got my Mamiya 645. Great SLR!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I agree! I love this camera :)

[@edinburghtumuran916]

One of the best medium format cameras! Just got mine and loving every minute using it! I have my analog photography vlog too buddy! Thanks!

[@TheSchnauzie]

Thanks Robbie love your video style

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you, Marcel!

[@ZachParksPhoto]

Love what you do with that camera, man. The Mamiya 645 line up is incredible. I completely forgot that you bought that from Jamal. It’s good to see my old 645 getting put to good use. Haha

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

haha this one used to be yours?! thats pretty crazy. This Camera is clearly blessed.

[@eherrmann01]

Mamiya 645 + Ektar = Pure Joy!

[@batworker]

I’ve got a 645 pro-tl and really enjoy it. The only issue I find is that these days my eyesight is a bit weak to focus it easily, even with glasses, so I have shy away from shooting it wide open

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I feel ya. Im getting old and I notice I miss a decent amount of shots

[@chevy2die]

Another banger 🎈

[@boondoc001]

Holyoke! I was there a few years ago and some of your pictures remind me of. It's a cool place to take some pictures, I got some pretty nice photos in West Springfield too

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I have a couple videos in West Springfield too! Route 5 is a great bridge from Springfield to Holyoke

[@boondoc001]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates If that's the bridge close to the power plant on the river then I know which one you're talking about

[@mrca2004]

The 210 mm f/4 makes a head and shoulders shot at 8' with gorgeous bokeh and at f/4 2" dof and 2.5" at f5.6, 3.5" at f8and at f11 6". All will give you the eyes in ears out shallow dof. It is a roughly 135mm equivalent.

[@SweetLouPhotography]

We have very similar thoughts!! I have the 1000s, but I really do love the camera a ton. Its so inspiring and fun to use. Thanks for sharing dude. Your work rocks as always

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you so much buddy!

[@salmonefotografia77]

Nice colors! I like these photos ! Thank you for sharing !

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you so much!

[@Elifilmphoto]

I'm looking to get one of these medium format film camera. Thanks for the video! I fkin loved it

[@RM.TokyoPhotographer]

I found that for the battery...there are ppl making enclosure exact same size 3D printed and you just stick in 2LR44 batteries and it works :D

[@markperez7626]

I am happy to have found your feed. Dig the style and the way you put together your videos. It’s great insight seeing you go through your process and It helps me a lot with my own approach so thank you for creating such great content! How are you liking that strap? Is it custom? I have been on the search for something like that for my 645.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thank you, Mark! I loved the strap - I never liked leather straps before I had that one

[@markperez7626]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates where’d ya get it from if you don’t mind my asking?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

@@markperez7626 it came with the camera - I think it had a name on it but I sold it a while ago so I don't even remember.

[@LA3198]

Thank you Robbie for an enjoyable and educational video. I just got a 645 1000s and on my first roll of film I got 5 frames with light leaks. Now I have replaced the light seals and will be shooting a couple of rolls of film this weekend. Looking forward to using this lovely camera. I really like the colors you are getting. Could you share what color negative film you like? Thanks

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thanks Don! I am sure you are going to love it! I usually shoot with Ektar 100 but if you dont have a lot of light, Portra 400 is a great choice

[@sowie9626]

Love it I remember when I just to cut my hair in hair hunter thank you for sharing this beautiful video great work 🙏👍

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Its a shame to see it abandoned

[@sowie9626]

Robbie Maynard Creates Yes it is

[@spuggym8986]

I'd love to hear how you shoot impromptu photos of strangers, I'd love to get into doing it

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

nuff said - I'll do it lol

[@jamesmartin3996]

Wow! Amazing that you don’t like the images you got with the longer focal length. I LOVED that image of painting over graffiti!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thanks, James!

[@montycraig5659]

Great video, but I’m most impressed to see another photog who is a pipe, or cigar man!! Cheers.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Cheers Monty!

[@vicktoriousng7948]

As far as I am aware, the Mamiya M645 series all have electronically controlled shutter, which operate on a battery. This is different from what you have stated in the video that them being mechanical.

[@AlexOnStreets]

Good work!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thanks!

[@malcolmrendle6622]

You say that the first generation Mamiyas are "non Battery" I cannot find one of these all seem to require a battery and even the online specs say that these all have electronic shutters am I missing something?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Technically the only battery dependence on the mechanical M645s is for the AE finder. I use the waist level finder so the battery is not required

[@TakingOverCAST]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates great video! Big fan of your content as always. I do think yours probably uses a battery. I just read the m645j manual and it says a single battery can be used for approximately 100k shutter actuations without a metered prism. Lol

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

@@TakingOverCAST I appreciate you, Ramiel! Maybe thats why I dont see it in the m645j

[@makarone]

Hi, thanks for sharing your experience and images! Could you tell, did you made any color correction to your film photos? Thanks!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thanks! It varies from image to image. Honestly though, very minimal color correction in post - mostly just dust removal, bumping the sharpness and adding contrast :)

[@makarone]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates Thanks! Asking because the all the photos has such wonderful colours, so i can't imagine they are raw scans :)

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

@@makarone I scan everything with SilverFast and use the Ektar profile, and it gives me pretty accurate colors from the start.

[@TomMcCormickGuitar]

That Bret Hart shirt goes HARRDDD

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

hahaha Im so glad someone finally mentioned it.

[@jean-claudemuller122]

It's such a pity that many M645 camera are sold today with a chimney finder that never was standard but an accessory that doesn't enable handheld vertical shooting. M645 standard delivery new was with a prism finder. I guess people who sell them today simply sell the body with the cheap chimney finder and sell the prism separately to make money. It's even weirder with Hasselblad C cameras. Recent modells like 503CW or 501CM were sold new with the amazing Acute mate C screen. Many second hand cameras no more have these screens but ar fitted with the bad original screen, precedent owner having sold the C screen separately for big money.

[@ldstirling]

I have found the 55mm f/2.8 to be pretty expensive of late. I wonder if you ever considered the 55-110mm f/4.5 zoom? I've got a 645 1000s with 80mm f/2.8 and 150mm f/3.5, both of which I love. But I'm not willing to spend $250 for the 55mm prime. As you shoot stopped down anyway, do you think the zoom used at f/5.6 or f/8 would be nearly as good? These can be found for half the price, or less if you don't mind cleaning fungus. I'm all about budget options since my 645 1000s is only one of many cameras that I use.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I find that primes (especially older ones) are far superior than zooms, even by the same manufacturer. I haven't used the zoom so I cant say but personally, I hate how zooms look and feel. They are usually too heavy, and clumsy.

[@Vintage35MM]

I’m putting together a ProTL system. Not knowing what I was doing and purchasing on the internet I bought a 55-110 zoom mostly because of cost. The body came with a AE prism finder. I don’t know how this lens would work with a waist level finder, but I can tell you with a prism finder the ergonomics are very challenging unless you get a hand grip. I find the power grip is most useful with the 55-110 lens and prism finder because I can get my left hand/arm under the camera, and the grip puts the shutter button and power switch in a better position while also adding stability and a gripping handle. The power winder of the grip is only a tertiary benefit. Another tip is get a strap with the camera. The strap for the PRO TL lugs was hard to find when I was looking.

[@NunoAlmeidaPhotography]

I love your content man! Also, that Bret Hart shirt 🥵

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

The best there is, best there was, best there ever will be!

[@OldFoolRN]

My trusty M645 has a 1/60th second default if the battery dies

[@seanperry8803]

I'm a little puzzled when you call the m645 1000s, J and m645 "mechanical", as they use the "Mamiya moving coil electronic shutter", and I can't see in my m645 1000s manual, nor an online m645J manual, ANY mention of any mechanical speed. Even that flash sync speed of 1/60th is not mentioned as being mechanical.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Im puzzled too

[@hz5ya]

What camera strap are you using for your mamiya? I’ve been looking for one for a while

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I made the one I had on the M645

[@hz5ya]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates Damn, I was afraid you’d say that. Looks slick!

[@frodoOG]

im new, how do you export the photos to laptop?

[@christoombes7875]

As a Brit I loved the “the fuzz” reference. 👍

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Haha yes!

[@cborel83]

how slow can you shoot withought camera shake from that mirror. I just got my negs back and most of them have camera shake and I shoot @ a minimum of 1/125

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

depends on how I feel. I would assume at 1/125 that you shouldnt have any issues. Is your Shutter release harder to press? I have that issue on my Yashica that makes it hard to shoot even at 1/125th because the trigger is NOT sensitive at all lol

[@mp3remix171]

Still shooting my thrifted TLR, but when that one breaks, this camera is next in line!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Make that dollar streeeeetch! lol

[@smitz001]

You can always find the battery at Walgreens.

[@tammaq]

I like your lightheadedness

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Thanks bud

[@albertbernal7434]

Do you edit the images after at all ?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

For sure. Its a big part of the process.

[@definingslawek4731]

I want a use a waist level finder with one but I can't find someone selling a 645 with that. You're saying there's no glass on it? So I could just take the ae finder off if I want to shoot waist level?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Precisely! I would recommend getting one though. It does block out light, and have a magnifier that makes critical focus possible. Without it, its going to be hard, especially in strong light but definitely doable.

[@definingslawek4731]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates after market they cost like 250 dollars on eBay though. I suppose I could wait for a seller with both to appear. I have seen a 3d printed option. Maybe I’d end up using the slr viewfinder mostly anyway. I do find that top down viewfinder romantic though, Hasselblad style

[@anthonymiller8979]

Does the battery on the M645 1000s power just the optional meter or is the shutter electronically fired?

[@NJ1810]

The M645 1000S is actually NOT completely mechanical. It won't fire without a battery.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I think Niklas is right with the 1000s

[@BrettFosterDotNet]

nice video! however... the early m645 series cameras are NOT mechanical in the general meaning of the term. without a battery the shutter will only fire a 60th. they have an electronic shutter :). having said that, they are awesome. have you ever seen the 645e? I have one. I believe they were the last film 645 designed by Mamiya and are a complete bakerlite body!!! :)

[@keithwiebe1787]

I'm scanning 1000s of medium format film right now. Most taken with a Mamiya C330f and various lenses and some 6x7 to 6x9 on other cameras. I see absolutely no reason to use film anymore. Why?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

You're asking me why you dont want to use film anymore? Or why I use film?

[@keithwiebe1787]

@RobbieMaynardCreates Why use film? I'm actually scanning with my R8 Canon. I don't think that the medium format has any more resolution than the R8 and it doesn't cost me 10 bucks a roll plus proofs and or scanning. Now if your intent is to relive the old days more power to you.

[@TheAdtman22]

Great video!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@TJCampie]

Where to get your strap?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

It came with the camera when I bought it from a buddy

[@TJCampie]

@@RobbieMaynardCreates thanks, just got mine and couldn't find the right lugs but the local store hooked me up

[@Wileyinthestreets]

What shutter release cable do you use?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I think I just bought some basic one from BH. Its made of a Kevlar material though

[@Jvega001]

Bro how do you only have 6k subs!!

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I think its the lack of a handsome leading man lol

[@fosterb300]

Awesome content! I stumbled across this video after picking up and checking out a Mamiya 645 at my local camera shop in Minneapolis. It felt like a fine piece of machinery just tinkering with it in the store. I think I'm going to invest in the system, since it's a pretty good deal. Hopefully it'll be in stock, when I get back to Minneapolis, I'm working in Alaska currently. I have a Pentax 6x7 & Yashica TLR for my current medium format collection. I'm not a huge fan of the 6x6 format, and sometimes really struggle to find a good composition in square. My Yashica TLR doesn't like -40F either, the shutter keeps getting stuck. I'd think the 645 would be best for me finanically. Anyways, I've been binging your content! Keep it up, you've got awesome content, and you tell a beautiful story with each video. I like that it breaks the mold of the stereotypical LA/NYC pastel tones of some very big film KZbinrs. Wish I'd stumbled across it sooner.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Happy to have you, Bruce! Fingers crossed you can still get your hands on the 645. You're going to love it!

[@David-hk3ly]

As much as I enjoy these cameras they have a common fault that is the film advance is prone to jamming or not advancing the film properly or getting stuck in a particular frame. Once that happens it can be an expensive fix or paperweight.

[@chasington]

what view finder is this?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Waist Level Finder

[@nightsbeatswitchgood]

i shoot a looot of portraits, so does anybody have experience shooting on the mamiya 645 with a prism finder but without a grip in portrait orientation? is it annoying/difficult?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

The prism finder would help a lot. Be careful though, some of the prism finders do not fit properly and they wobble a bit.

[@MannyScoot]

People have been programmed to be lazy and to buy buy buy...... I use a 50mm f1.4 lens and walk closer or walk further away..... very simple ......

[@czarsonxd2093]

3:49 are you kidding?

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Would I kid you? lol

[@marissakphotography6604]

I am a total idiot for selling mine 😭. I miss it everyday.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

I spoke to your old M645 and it misses you too :(

[@GeorgeStar]

That mirror vibration is a source of concern. I wonder if anyone's done any kind of rigorous testing. My guess is the larger mirrors like the RB67 & Pentax 6x7 are worse. My search for a portable MF camera narrows down to only RF folders like Fuji GS645 or the older Fuji 6.

[@RobbieMaynardCreates]

Most of my more recent videos are shot with the Fuji GSW690 III if you want to hear how that goes lol