Mamiya RB67 Pro SD - The Photographic Boat Anchor

Tabletop review of Mamiya's RB67 Pro SD camera, as well as some history on the entire RB67 line. Ultimately I would really recommend this camera for the price.

[@1960ceramic]

I just got my Pro SD a couple of days ago. I bought it off eBay from a seller in Japan. It cost me $265 US! Talking about cheap. The body looks brand new, and everything appears to work fine. I have not shot with it yet, but will do so very soon. Thanks for the great video! It was people like you who continue to promote film, and I think it is awesome!

[@dalejohnson9342]

I have had my Pro SD for over twenty years and use it for outdoor shots all the time. I agree on what you have said about this camera. I do have a 200, 90, and 50 mm lens. I also have a doubler so that I can expand the capabilities of each lens. I love to use it for my landscape shots and also wildlife shots. I am anxious to get it over here to Thailand so that I can start doing photography again. The biggest issue I would have here is a developer. I do not have any developing abilities (mostly because I have not been in a situation where I could learn that craft).

[@peter2712]

I use the Pro SD with a 50, 90, and 250 lens. Got the prism finder and the right hand grip but the most important piece of equipment is the camera strap. If you use an RB or RZ put a strap on it.

[@Vincent.Morreale]

THANK YOU SO MUCH ! Just got my Rb67 and I am having a blast. My mecanical back is failing on me and just bought the electronic one!

[@darthvecil]

great video man. I'm from Argentina, i got recently a mamiya RB67 PRO-S with 2 backs and was going to get the motorized back but wasnt sure, thanks to your video now I know and will go for one.

[@AgnostosGnostos]

Nearly all old Mamiya medium format cameras have problems with their light sealing. In eBay there are affordable light-seal kits or stripes that can solve the problem quite easily at least for a certain period.

[@mooncloud23]

great video - thanks for making it. I bought a mamiya rb67 pro-s last night on ebay and am trying to learn as much as I can before it arrives. also appreciate that you mentioned why you prefer the rb over the rz... I kept going back and forth when looking for one to buy. oh, and fantastic photos at the end!

[@Fidel_Cashflow00]

Thanks, man. Just got mine from Japan today and need to learn how to use it.

[@Layers711]

Great video tutorial man! Love your explanations too. I am absolutely sold on buying this now. Thank you!

[@sodoberman]

This video was the best video I've come across regarding this camera. thanks so much. ( See also his video about the RZ camera, it's a good contrast to THIS great video)

[@MarkHinchey1]

Nice review! Just ordered an RB. Lookin forward to shooting! Would love to hear some lens reviews for the RB line.

[@ChadMauger]

Thanks. I like your portraits. I acquired an RB67 some months ago and recently started taking portraits with it using Kodak Portra 160. Good results so far :)

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Yeah it's funny that I talked about the reasons I didn't buy a RZ, now I shoot an RZ.... the RB is still an extremely quality camera. Just doesn't lend itself to speed if you don't have the winding back. Typically when I'm working I'm ripping through rolls of film so I needed speed. They're about the same price, so I'd check out the RZ when you get a chance, I'll do a video about the RZ soon.

[@06Milano]

That was a very helpful review. I have the pro-s model with the mechanical back and 127 f/3.8 C lens. I enjoy the large 6x7 neg size.

[@ShadowofSun2012]

Perfect video, everything you need to know!

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Thanks! Glad I could help, keep checking back couple more camera videos in the works.

[@georgelove767]

Very interesting and informative. Thank you.

[@62ejo]

Thxs,I still have mine from 1971,still going strong... just a plan RB6x7....

[@rotfai45mm]

I have 4 Mamiya RB 67 bodies because it a great camera build like a tank. Last year I had a accident with my motorcycle notthing happened to the RB 67 in the Lowepro bag but I was not so lucky as my RB 67 and lenses !

[@Weezot97]

A little more DOF on the video would be helpful.

[@johnnytremp]

Yeah, for a photographer, he sure has a hard time nailing that focus...

[@Nat.ImagesLarge.F.Photographer]

Extraordinary camera,it has only one problem:after first use you can no longer leave it, impossible,marvelous!!!

[@NESClO]

Mamiya RB67 Pro SD for 400 dollars in 2012. Now more like 700 dollars

[@nikonrick]

Then you. Never thought of that.......What a rookie. Thanks, Richard

[@pajbassman81]

I just picked one up for $80. I had to put in some work, but it's a RAD camera. Just looking through the prism gives you goosebumps.

[@kirederf7862]

Very good and detailed guide:) Thanks

[@josephrki]

For me living in Indonesia, mostly camera are digital. I have Mamiya and Bronica but it is difficult to get the negative film fot 120 format. Mostly people using digital and they sell the Mamiya, but my Mamiya still with me as this is the first camera I owned in 1980s.

[@neiromobile]

I want it all! I want in now! Thanks for review!

[@Being_Joe]

Do you know if the motorized backs require light seals or are they like the SD backs?

[@neigborhoodbassdealer]

When you shoot your shots with the motives back is it supposed to be set to the multi mode? It’s the only way my camera takes a picture

[@mr.diionii8610]

Hi. I have the same camera, Mamiya RB67 ProSD and I want to buy a 127mm Sekor C, do you know if I need a special ring to mount the lens to the body of the camera? Thank you!

[@TheSaladTozzer]

just ordered one of these monsters and i can't wait to get it. I think I'll prefer the mechanical back over the electrical one though.

[@issiport5978]

Hey Aaron. Thanks for the info on the film backs. Do they make 120/240 film backs? I found they have them in 6x8 which is a bit big. How does that even work? A 6x8 back on a 67. Would the lens be cropping a whole bunch? Cheers!

[@issiport5978]

Just found half my answer. So they do make 120/240 backs in both 6×7 and 6×8 but only in the automatic. Do u think they make a pro sd 240 back in mechanical?

[@melotone6017]

Thanks for the vid. It's a good intro demo to the RB. I've got a big RB kit, bought piece by piece while in school. It is very versatle, and very robust. You could do a 15 minute vid on the film interlock...really forces you to think about what you are doing. And yes, you can shoot this handheld. You've got a lot of mass, and use the neck strap to provide stabilizing tension. But remember, this is not a quiet camera. Can't pretend that you did not take a picture after that miror slap!

[@ressikanflute]

Beautiful images by the way... In distant years past, I have tried both Bronica an 'Blads. What would be a good setup for landscape? Not sure my Manfrotto can manage an RB. Wide angle for long exposure is an interest and a portrait lens for the occasional image of my wife. Thanks for the detailed and informative video.

[@TTULangGenius]

I just ordered the parts to put one together! I can't wait to use it! :D

[@danfloresmusic]

Hi.Very nice review. Do 6x8 motorized backs fit on every Pro SD without mods? Thanks!

[@dantaylor5476]

Have you tried shooting with a GX680? It's a bit heavier than the Rb67.

[@stevenfoon2194]

Thanks for the review. Just picked up the RB67 Pro SD. Need to locate the Polaroid back. Any suggestions on which items? I know there's the P-Back and the Polaroid Land Film Back - but there seems to be 3 different models of the Film Back. Any ideas on which one is best?

[@aaronshapiroedc]

If that's the case I'd recommend just using bulb on a cable release. That way you can lock the release and time it perfectly. Apart from that I'm probably not much help. I rarely if ever shoot LE.

[@canadianchungus701]

Firstly thank you - Learned more about my favorite medium format here than 12 hours of university class so a massive size thanks. Secondly, when buying a used rb67 what should I look for to be sure the camera would function (I am well aware that buying of kijiji or craigslist has it's own trouble, but just to be completely sure). If you could provide some guideline that would be super awesome!!!

[@aaronshapiroedc]

I like the Pro SD's simply because they're the newest model...so you're not using a 30+ year old camera. All the RB lenses have leaf shutters. The lens I have is the 90mm and it's what I would recommend as a starter lens.

[@alfonsoholston9255]

Arron, I saw your You Tube video on the Mamiya SD. I bought one. Now my 50mm lens is stuck and will not come out. Do you have any idea what to do?

[@JeffDietzphoto]

Do you think it's a huge difference to go with the proS instead of the Pro SD? I am having problems finding Pro SD versions for sale. Also what lens do you have on this camera that has the shutter leaf style lens? Thanks

[@nicka.5884]

I just bought this camera with the standard kit for $375.00, mechanical rear winder. Where can I get instructions on how to use it. I appreciate your video, very informative. I want to find out how to load the mechanical back, how to use the markings on the side of the bellows with the 90mm lens it comes with.

[@waynew6707]

Nick A. Just in case you still need it: butkus.org/chinon/mamiya/mamiya_rb67_professional/mamiya_rb67_professional.htm

[@geeks4greyson425]

Very thorough video. However, you failed to mention that if you travel with it on a commercial airline, they will force you to buy an extra seat for it!

[@andyvan5692]

nice video, would also like to mention that, apart from the back you showed, it uses NO BATTERIES!!!, YES, finally a camera you don't have to have on a charger every week or so, or be reliant on a store keeping the make of battery the camera uses.

[@ramblinginmeath4950]

Interesting video on a great MF camera system - question / do you know if there is a specific motorised back for the pro SD or is the motorised back suitable for all RB models - Pro ProS and ProSD Thanks

[@RetiOrchid58]

Thank you..very helpful reference video.

[@RatAndRaven]

the shallow depth of field looks cool and all but it's really shit when you're trying to see the details you're explaining.

[@nikonrick]

Hello: Thanks for this video. I just bought one, and I have a question. How do you set the film speed? This is my first medium format camera, and I can't figure out what to do about film speed. Thanks, Richard

[@terionthomas9296]

Can you fit the SD motorized back on the Pro S Body?

[@abercrombi803]

Good video. Where did you get your film developed?

[@Aps3FanBoy]

@Josh An it is but with out the dark slide in the film holder you'll be unable too remove the back of of the camera too load it with film

[@librarianeric]

Great overview!

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Yeah I think you'll find any of the "pro" stocks will work fine. I wouldn't stress much over specific films. It's the content that matters anyway. I tend to shoot whatever I can get my hands on.

[@joshan4043]

I have an opportunity to buy one without a darkslide, is it primarily used if you want to change film mid shoot or is it possible to use it without the darkslide?

[@bradlinton]

Wonderful review.

[@journeyquest1]

What steered me away from the Mamiya was the high cost of the lens and harder to find. So i opted for the Bronica. Lens and parts are easier to get and less money. But still good quality. 6x7 was more than i wanted to lug around for hand shooting. So i got the ETSRI 645 which enlarges just fine. If i get a big tripod camera i will get a 4x5 view camera.

[@junelopez215]

What are your favorite film that you use with your Mamiya's RB67?

[@TopshelfJunior]

I feel like 3 outta 4 of those photos at the end were out of focus ? That dog one was great tho !!!

[@MK116Alex]

I'm thinking about getting one of these or a Mamiya c330f. Do you have any experience with the 330? Would you still recommend the RB? Not counting size or weight. That's not an issue. I'm thinking more about performance.

[@kenholt6244]

Hi.! Thanks for your video, most helpful I get my pro S in 3 days. This is a totally new experience for me in photography. Can you recommend a light meter without breaking the bank? I appreciate your help. Thanks again. Regards Ken

[@GatoGordoPhotography]

Do you need an adapter if you want to use the original 90mm f3.8 lens to the pro sd body?

[@ValleyinFilm]

do you know how to remove the bellows?

[@ChadMauger]

Out of curiosity, which film did you use for the colour portraits?

[@cruzgarcia8060]

Could i use the motorized back on the pro s??

[@aaronshapiroedc]

I'd go with the RZ man... That's what I shoot now, and I love it. If you're looking for real lightweight, but are willing to spend money $ I'd suggest the Mamiya 7. Rangefinder, super small, light, 6x7 negative...expensive though.

[@rems51]

Practically Everyday What kind of film can this back use?

[@stevenvanzoelen]

When I read about the word "digital junkie" I suddenly woke up and bought myself a camera I always wanted; the Mamiya RB pro S.

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Yeah it's a lot of fun. I own and have owned a LOT of different cameras. I have three more tabletop's planned in the near future for photo stuff. So we'll see. You should get out and shoot some film man, there's nothing like it.

[@РоманАбросимов-т1ъ]

Hello! I want to excuse fo my bad english before) Do you have a video how to shoot with motorized film back? I`m load a film and press "start" button and film begin rotate to 1st frame. Then i turned off a film back. And when i turn it on again, the shutter button is not working. Then I press start button again and film is rotated to next frame and only after it a can make a picture! What i did wrong? Help me please!)

[@TheDeepImpact965]

Sorry my english isn't the best. But it looked like you almost sratched the focus screen with the screwdriver. Doesn't meant it offensive. And by the way a wonderful camera. Im planning to buy me a Zenza Bronica next month, the mamiyas are quite expensive here in germany...

[@MrDrunkenknight]

Sorry, but coating is for increasing light transmittance due to reflection blocking by interference into thin film

[@automat8]

Excellent. Thanks.

[@zhcg]

Thank you so much!

[@aaronshapiroedc]

I believe so. Yes.

[@GraflexGuy]

Wow, I'm so glad I went Hassy (which you can get QUITE close with an extension tube) Better than 35mm? You don't shoot 35mm, 120, 4x5, or 8x10 for the quality alone. You shoot it for the look film gives.

[@Ggaabbrriieell7]

whats the weight of the camera with lens?

[@zhcg]

Video on your process of developing your film? ;)

[@dpw1989]

How did you do remote flash?

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Exactly. They'll last you a lifetime, and for the cost these days you really can't pass them up.

[@aaronshapiroedc]

You don't, unless you have a metering viewfinder (most don't), you'll need a light meter, and you set your ISO in that.

[@FJ55ironpig]

Cool review Makes me want to shoot some film And I am not even a photographer.

[@cecilsharps]

I got a gs-1 instead of an Rz. Really wish i had gone the mamiya route instead of bronica

[@Kellerkind80]

Thanks for your video, but please take another table and light for presentation.

[@TheVongole]

Thanks man

[@aaronshapiroedc]

I'm not sure honestly, probably not if it's an RB lens.

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Sure thing man.

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Yup. Wet mount scanning.

[@aaronshapiroedc]

I could do a simple demo video of HOW to shoot long exposures... I, however, don't shoot many long exposures. I try and stay above 1/30th generally...

[@abercrombi803]

Scanning and all?

[@aaronshapiroedc]

Yeah, never ran into a Bronica that I liked.

[@Mettyunuabona_]

6:28 (Ithe most self condescending voice possible)

[@TheDeepImpact965]

It's a bit scary when you point a centimeter from the screen with a screwdriver =)

[@johnjewell219]

What’s wrong with your dog lol he has character.👍good vi

[@laneeric]

If you are interested in buying a used Mamiya 6x7 camera, I HIGHLY recommend starting with the RZ Pro II not an old RB system which only uses a mechanical leaf shutter (long story short- RZ is fully electronically controlled shutter, NOT unreliable and very inconsistent mechanical RB lenses and bodies.). The used market for RZ systems is just as cheap as RB's and WAY better of a system. Feel free to email me if you have further questions.

[@av8bvma513]

UNRELIABLE? Where did you get that word from? I most certainly will not let you use MY RB67. Thirty years old, THOUSANDS of films through the four backs, and the seven lenses? Never, never, never failed to fire the shutter, or the flash, or to make outstanding images! ** My RZ67 is also excellent to use, and has never missed a shot. Blow-offs who get a hard-on for just one thing, and throw down on anybody choosing differently, do not deserve oxygen.

[@laneeric]

av8bvma513 wow you must have a YUGE stick up YOUR ass. All I am saying is, if somebody wants to purchase a used system on Craigslist or Ebay or wherever, the pricing on both systems are almost the same. Why limit yourself right off the bat. What I am saying is the mechanical spring which is used to time the shutter in ALL RB lenses can stretch and cause extreme variations in timing. I used to work for MAMIYA. The industry standard timing is one-half stop leeway either direction of the indicated speed. So if you set the lens at 1/60 sec,the lens can take an exposure between 1/45 and 1/90 sec. and still be within factory specs. If you take a roll of slide film and shoot up at the open sky (so you have a consistent light) you will notice that none of your exposures are the same as the others. Yes, they may be close, but in my commercial photography business that's completely unacceptable.By contrast, the RZ lenses are all electronically timed, giving deadly accurate exposures. I started with an RB before the RZ was even released, when I moved up to the RZ I was able to get way more consistency.

[@felixstoger2800]

Lane Shurtleff The guys over at DigitalRev once shot an AnalogRev comparing the RZ with the Pentax 67. In the video, they hade many issues with the RZ not firing and giving errors. As they put it, that's commom with the RZ; the RB (due to lack of electronics) should be error-free... I tbh would take inaccurate timings over a chance of the camera not firing at all! As you said you worked at Mamya, what's up with these electronic issues and can they be fixed?

[@Huginn1000]

I thought that 6x8 RB backs are awesome and that's a real plus for buying RB, but then i read that they are not true 6x8, they are only 58x75, there are problems with vignetting, you lost 1 frame, each of them uses 4 AA batteries and they can be 58x75 only in vertical orientation. I was shocked that mamiya manufactured these ugly backs.

[@alexandraheavens]

agreed!!

[@jpgpearson]

rb is a great camera but its heavy c330 is more light weight but no polaroid back

[@mdmohin007]

Hello there, have you heard about "photo SFX art" (do a Google search for it)? There you will find a nice free video featuring how you can make outstanding photographs. This helped Matt to create photographs which have that wow-effect when you take a look at them. I hope it works for you too...