Photographing the British Seaside with the Fuji GS645W

[@JordanmKenna]

I have the 60mm f/4 version with the "roll-cage." Got through maybe 10 rolls before I had the shutter/winder/release give out in the middle of a trip. It was pretty devastating in the moment. I sent it to KEH for repair and have since gotten 2-3 years of consistent go-to camera use without any major issues. I wouldn't rely on it for serious work or anything I'm getting paid for--BUT this is the camera I NEED with me when I'm traveling. The weight, ease of use, and image quality have always inspired me to put my anxieties aside and feel excited about having the camera with me.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Awesome to hear that you haven't had any issues since!

[@randallstewart1224]

@@KyleMcDougall The reason people get issues with the GS models is that the owners do not keep them serviced., much as in your case. These cameras are 50 years old. The exception for the GS645S is the focus mount and shutter linkage. Many owners seem to think that crash bar is there to make it look tough, instead of critically protecting its huge design flaw. Of course, when they break the camera, they fraudulently sell it off, giving the appearance of the problem being the camera, not the idiot owner.

[@bennmurhaaya8518]

Judging just by the colors I would have never guessed these were shot on Ektar. Such a lovely, yet punchy colors without any cast. Truly splendid.

[@KyleMcDougall]

I'm a big fan. I've found that learning how to correct during conversion is key, and once you understand it, it's a breeze. Quickly becoming one of my favourites.

[@danimekun]

​@@KyleMcDougallAny particular steps you take to correct? I shoot a lot of Ektar and find that it scans quite well, especially with Silverfast but I have moved more in the DSLR direction now. Still welcome to tips that might improve the scans further, since I guess every now and then there can be the slight cyan cast.

[@william_lloyd]

I've been shooting with a GS645S Professional Wide 60 for 4 or so years now. I take it everywhere and absolutely love it. It's so easy to use I've just about stopped using 35mm cameras completely. It's so light that it makes for an easy carry, compact enough to fit in my side bag, and produces stellar images.

[@alexgreenway21]

As someone who knows WSM like the back of my hand, this was so cool. Really interesting to see how you photographed the place. Great job, Kyle!

[@KyleMcDougall]

Glad you enjoyed, Alex. Cheers.

[@jnxmck]

Spotted the Grand Pier in the thumbnail and had to check it out as a WsM resident.

[@lensman5762]

You have to go a very very long way to find something as good as Ektar under bright consitions. It is my favourite colour film. It is a shame that it has become so so expensive. Your photographs were lovely, and almost had a nostalgic look to them. Job well done.

[@gregwardecke]

Portra can suck it! Love love love Ektar.

[@tompoynton]

Try Ektar at night, absolutely beautiful

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thank you. And yeah, it has gotten more expensive, which is unfortunate. But one that I can see myself shooting a lot more of.

[@Dan_photo]

Just putting my first roll through the GS645S right now. Super stoked for it and can’t wait to see what I get.

[@brianbeattyphotography]

nice work. I really like the one at 8:34. simple composition but balanced.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thank you, Brian.

[@gregwardecke]

I really enjoyed this style of video! It let us see what you see and then be really pleased at the photographs you created. Great film choice too.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Glad you enjoyed Greg, cheers.

[@stevenpam]

Beautiful photos, Kyle. I've long been interested in this camera and its siblings.

[@LeeRatcliffe]

Great video Kyle. Really nice to see your take on my local seaside town!!

[@KyleMcDougall]

Cheers, Lee. It's a fun place to explore.

[@michaeljenner1795]

I had both the 45mm version you're using here and the 60mm version. I didn't have any issues with the advance, no mechanical problems. But, I was not very good at guessing distances with the 45mm so I did get a few out of focus photos. The 60mm was difficult to focus with the rangefinder, but I definitely did better with that one. I love the images I got from that camera. I shot mostly color negatives and they came out really great. I agree the weight and handling are terrific for a medium format camera and the lenses are sharp, have great color, and the meters are accurate. I paid only $500 for each of mine in the late 80s. If I were still shooting film, I'd be using the 60mm version. I've used lots of medium format cameras, but that was my favorite.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Definitely interested in trying the 60mm version at some point. That's a very intriguing focal length for me on 645. Glad to hear you enjoyed it!

[@sleepeasy6326]

Ah! Weston Super Mare! spent most of my childhood there! great work as always!

[@samcarmack3811]

My dad used the 75mm folding gs645 back in the day and gave it to me as a gift after I replaced the bellows in it. I probably put about 12-15 rolls through it and the advance stopped working. We're paying to have it fixed because I absolutely love that camera and has given me some of the absolute sharpest pictures I've ever taken (even rivaling some 4x5 pictures I've taken). Excited to have it back soon

[@randallstewart1224]

Having been through two GS645 units (first stolen), and having them CLA'ed with new bellows, I found the 75mm lens on them to be just incredibly sharp. (My standard test is to shoot a steel girder bridge from about a half miles away, then blow up the negative about 40x. With this lens, you can clearly see and count the rivets.) Frankly, the lenses Fuji puts in all of their "pro" cameras are as good or better than anything on the market.

[@jonathanorleyi6600]

Love the shots especially the one at 8:34! The wide empty beach combined with that subject matter adds up to a really compelling image :)

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thank you!

[@nicksimmer]

Hey Daddy Kyle, thanks for the trip home, made me really nostalgic, I also have this camera and sometimes it’s a bit iffy but it’s a glorious piece of kit, I dragged it around the Lake District for a while & now I brought it to Alberta, It isn’t my favourite camera I’ve ever owned, which I will hand off to the F3 but it’s still absolutely amazing for a medium format camera. Thanks again

[@KyleMcDougall]

Definitely an amazing camera for hiking. Can't be beat for size/weight.

[@johnkaplun9619]

I love extra, on a sunny day it’s fantastic. The colors pop like slide film but it has the incredible dynamic range of kodaks best color negative offerings.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Quickly becoming a favourite.

[@clarhettcoalfield3616]

Well I suppose having reliable gear is a part of the equation when one is a photographer, although I do think too many people hold on to specific pieces of gear because of their attachment to it. Back in the day I knew I guy who was in love with his British racing green '71 MGB GT and would monthly - spend hundreds of dollars repairing it. And to this day he still owns it. That's a 40 plus year love affair that only he understands fully, for whatever the personal reasons be it nostalgia, or not wanting to let go of the emotions the '71 MGB GT brings him, he was willing to over look the issues and problems that the car had. So I think it might be the same for a number of cameras in the analogue film world when it comes to gear. Photographers are people and yes we get attached to our gear. Me included, I still have and use from time to time an old 1967 Miranda Sensorex film camera, it works, but constantly needs attention. And the only reason I still have it is because it reminds me of my Uncle's 1967 Ford Galaxie 500 - tail light. I got your book last week, very happy, the book is subtle and understated, Thank you.

[@KyleMcDougall]

I agree with you. We definitely get attached to things. For me, I have my main 'tools', and with those, I just care that they get the job done. But then I have a couple other cameras that are about the experience, for random days out shooting like this. Those are the ones that I have a connection with for sure. And thanks for grabbing a copy of the book. Truly appreciated!

[@tedphillips2951]

Wow! The Ektar film looks amazing. I had a Fuji 645 & liked it. The lens was incredible sharp but the rangefinder was really tough to use. It could have been because of age but I sold it. No regrets.

[@thurstonempson7910]

Another excellent, and peaceful video. I loaded up a morning coffee and watched through. Also enjoyed the video grading - look forward to the next

[@KyleMcDougall]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@spaceman77777]

Really like the warm, dense colors of Ektar.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Yep, becoming a fav of mine!

[@zz-kn3nj]

Haha I just watch your GS645 mini review and the repair story of it yesterday and what a surprise the one with hunting pov version just comes out today!

[@GP3D]

I used to walk W-S-M seafront every day on the way to and from Weston art college in the late 90s. It used to be up by the old Birnbeck Pier.

[@GavStrange]

You made Weston look lovely!

[@alfredobustamante3770]

A movie I've watched multiple times for photographic inspiration is "Empire of Light." It was shot around Margate England by Roger Deakins.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Ohhh, I'll have to check that out. Deakins is a favourite of mine.

[@robspedding9520]

Weston Super Mare and an old Peugeot 309. What's not to like! Great video.

[@jakubrostkowski6420]

i love these cameras. i own 645S - the reliability ends when the winter starts - the shutter loves to freeze during low temps and theres nothing you can do. i like to bring it during vacation trips. the lenses are sharp as hell and i wish all my cameras had such sharp glasses ;)

[@KyleMcDougall]

Ahh, interesting. Never experienced that before with any camera.

[@MegaSoundscapes]

Great video ! Always like to watch you roaming around on the island. It seems to me like Ektar and summer seaside vibe goes very well. I used Ektar ones and that reddish tone was a bit overwelming, but on the seaside with all the blue and yellow tones it really looks good. I've got to try it again . Thankx for your effort to put out those lovely videos !

[@randallstewart1224]

I have owed two GS645 (first one stolen) and a GS645W. After having a CLA and bellows replacement on the GS645, I find them both to be reliable cameras. As far as weakness in the film advance, I think they are no more prone to such trouble than a Mamiya 6 or 7, probably less so. The biggest problem using cameras like this today is that they are around 40 years old, and their owners never have them serviced or maintained. Both of these cameras are just about the simplest mechanisms you can find in a camera with similar features. I chose to not buy the GS645S (the 60mm crash bar model) because in the 1990s I had an office next to the local camera store, and there was an endless procession of GS645S units coming through with damaged focus mounts and shutter linkage, the result of owners failing to accept that the crash bar is there for a very good reason. The biggest limit on the GS645W is its lack of a rangefinder, which scares most folks away. I've spent 45 years shooting with a Rollei 35, so estimating subject distance and setting it on a focus dial isn't an issue for me. Tip: the 10 year later GA645W(i) gives full exposure and focus automation, one extra frame per roll with the (i) version and auto loads to first frame, and has an even better 8-element, 4.0 lens, and it commonly costs little more than the GS645W, because folks are afraid its electronics will quit on them. I hear the "but it's all electronic" objection to the GA series of cameras in many video like this one, but I've never, ever, seen a video where someone claims their GA model had failed electronics. (Excluding the notorious LED issue on the GA645Zi)

[@MrBouch66]

Love the Ektar look! Been about 14 years since I was in Weston Super Mare, hasn't changed much! I would really like one of the Fuji GSW series cameras but very hard to come by down here in NZ, have to stick to my Pentax 67 for now!

[@photonthief]

Ektar is a super under rated film IMO. I've really enjoyed shooting it since it came out.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Definitely film that I plan on shooting more.

[@Flodine73]

Very good job ! Hope you’ll do a longer review😊

[@dbugatto]

You got some lovely frames , nicely done.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thank you.

[@SkatohGleason]

I have the ga655zi. Love it so much, just praying the electronics don’t die

[@gtk90]

There are companies that restore dead Fuji GAs so no need to worry:) I've got mine fixed in FotoTech in Poland (broken lens electronics)

[@zacharyfuhrman7130]

Making me reconsider Ektar... Hat game on point as always. Cheers!

[@KyleMcDougall]

🙌

[@adamcarter6649]

I liked the photos from the pier, really contrasty on the Ektar, bought out the beach really well! Would be great to visit Weston on a windy day and get some kite surfers - I’m sure the Ektar and wide lens would bring out the kite fabric and make for some interesting shots ❤

[@KyleMcDougall]

Cheers, Adam!

[@massimo7005]

I recently got its cousin camera, the GS645S with 65mm f4. Great compact and light cameras with amazingly sharp lenses. Unfortunately in this period I am feeling a bit stuck with lack of inspiration but it's sure my go-to camera for future travel and hiking.

[@nickeanderssonphoto3936]

Love! Next book :)

[@HiughfvouTuytgjbc]

I just got my package and filters from kase, can't wait taking a shoot!

[@BIbiVstf3sx]

the carroussel shot is amazing, espacially with ektar.

[@KyleMcDougall]

My favourite as well. :)

[@darrencallaway4090]

Beautiful shots 👌

[@j8kkb]

Fabulous video, really like the way you work,

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thank you.

[@tombuttner]

I have the GS645S and other than the focusing patch in the viewfinder being a bit sticky/laggy it’s been terrific. About 50 rolls through it in the last year.

[@garyclennan2993]

Common issue for sure.

[@randallstewart1224]

Many 40 year old rangefinder cameras which have never been serviced because their owners fail to maintain them have this problem. It is simply a matter of the lubrication in the pivot points in the rangefinder mechanism If you have to DIY, the top of any GS model is fairly easy to remove. Then, lightly flush the pivot for the arm holding the rangefinder moving mirror with a little lighter fluid. A drop or two of WD-40 can be used very sparingly as an option. Work the mechanism to break up dried lube. (Check the action here, as you may not need to relube.) If required or you foresee a lot of future use, relube the pivot and any other contact surfaces with a drop of shutter oil or light machine oil. A light silicone grease is better if you can get it into the mechanism. (Use less rather than more and wipe up any excess.

[@ridovicsandras]

Great shots❤

[@felixplien4089]

I own the GS645S. I recently died on the last day of my Malaysia trip. The counter stopped working and it was just transporting and not really cocking. Hopefully it got fixed within the next weeks because I really like this camera.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Sounds like exactly what happened to mine. Good luck!

[@NunoAlmeidaPhotography]

8:34 looks great!

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thank you!

[@bnrynlds]

I just got my GS645W back from the repair shop with a replaced winding gear but I am planning on selling it because I picked up a GF670W a fortnight ago and need to pay off the credit card! I finally have my grail camera and no longer need the little 645. Lovely camera though.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Definitely one of the most sought-after! Love that you can shoot 66 and 67. Enjoy!

[@bnrynlds]

@@KyleMcDougall The photos from Glastonbury look incredible.

[@jakuchuito5107]

I used to have the GA645Zi and then later a Bronica RF645 with two exchangeable lenses (but fun the film in the same direction). The RF645 was my favorite to shoot with. Also lovely rendering. Good finder/focusing patch. Same winder issues unfortunately. Mine is still ok mostly, but like you say I wouldn’t use it as a main setup anymore.

[@KyleMcDougall]

I looked at the Bronica many times, but considering it's quite a bit more money than the Pentax, I don't know if I'd want to risk it with issues. Such a nice looking camera though.

[@thevisionaryelitist]

There’s something magical about those days where you go wander with no plan and delve into whatever you find. No expectations. Are all the scans done at home Kyle? Do you use a lab in the UK for dev?

[@KyleMcDougall]

I agree. As much as I love getting out to work on projects, I do enjoy a good ramble around just making images, with no expectations, just for fun. And yes, scans done at home. This was all developed by Jack's Lab in Bristol, who I definitely recommend.

[@nineteenseventy4588]

Same experience: had 2 GS645 (S), one had the known shutter issues and on the other one, the rangefinder was unadjustable somehow

[@ducgerard2361]

The fuji.gsw 645 is my leica Q3!

[@geraintroberts7593]

I saw you and your friend at Weston, I wish I said hello! Thought it was you but wasn’t certain haha.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Should have said hi!

[@KathrynSwordy]

I feel what Kyle is trying to say is you can take William Eggleston Leica style RF images the GS645W best of the bunch. Yes the shutter sounds like a mouse strap a string pop sound. GS645W with GA645Zi

[@SamJessop]

Great review. I was hoping for one of these or a GA645 as a lighter alternative to my RB67 when I need to travel light, and may consider a Mamiya 645 of some sort instead. The more mechanical the better for me I think.

[@expiringcity]

Picked one up a while ago and put a couple of rolls through it. Inspired to go out an shoot it again!!

[@SonOfWalhall]

One day, I will get a Mediumformat camera. One day 😅

[@mamiyaonfilm]

I would like to know where did you get your camera fixed, and if it’s a reliable place

[@glennpritchard9465]

Great video! I felt like I was there with you. What is your Fuji X-H2s mounted to as you walk? Chest harness? If so what brand?

[@chunnelglazer]

Where did you send yours to get fixed. Mine quit focusing awhile back, and I'd love to use it again.

[@KyleMcDougall]

This was done through London Camera Exchange, where I purchased it

[@escho14]

Where did you get your camera fixed? I love mine, but it is... less than reliable in some ways.

[@davidminarro]

Howdy Kyle. What set up did you use for this POV shoot? Looks steady and nice.

[@KyleMcDougall]

GoPro 11 Black. :)

[@andrewewalker]

i bought a 60mm f/4 model that had been in a bicycle accident. it needed the entire rangefinder assembly replaced. after 3 mos. of looking i finally found one and sent it to my repair person. he will replace that part and give the camera a complete CLA. hope to have it back shortly and try it out. i did find out parts and service are hard to find for these cameras. i sent mine to frank marshman who has been servicing them for years.

[@ChrisW.Fuji_Canon]

wonderful 😍

[@ilyapo]

Very nice, tell me please, what did you shoot POV on?

[@KyleMcDougall]

Cheers. GoPro Hero 11

[@NJ1810]

Nice photos, Kyle! May I ask where you got yours fixed and how much did you have to pay for the repair?

[@KyleMcDougall]

I bought this through London Camera Exchange, so it was repaired through them under warranty.

[@DLivingston]

9:03 is so good. Really love Ektar myself, despite it being years since I have shot a roll. oops. I have looked at this camera a ton to get something smaller. Pentax 645 is a bulky mess. LOL

[@KyleMcDougall]

The Pentax is definitely a lot larger, but still such a great camera.

[@mitismee]

i love this channel def a sub ( first photograph KZbinr that isub too as well) why do i love it? because doesn't matter which video i click the color is pretty much the same on most video , oh and I don't see u taking picture of random stranger on the street like others which is something i do really like it's my personal opinion that taking photo of a complete stranger directly when they walking down the street and straight at your camera where you can clearly see their face while you use that big ass zoom lense from far away is a big NO NO for me and i hate picture like that ( its only fine if they're asking for it or you ask the person ) . yeah and also love how most of your video is about "places" again taking picture of place and certain building or site without people in it just feel so good to watch

[@vikdaddy]

Buys expensive film, takes three photos of the McDonald's sign 😂 in all seriousness, beautiful photos mate

[@JanneRanta]

Any idea what caused the fault? Also was the fix expensive?

[@KyleMcDougall]

It was fixed under warranty by a camera shop, thankfully, so didn't cost me anything. Also didn't receive exact details about what they fixed.

[@JanneRanta]

@@KyleMcDougall 👍

[@Jsoberon]

In the video where your GS645 first broke, I mentioned that I had the same issue and had gotten it repaired. In the few months since then, it broke again. Now, it winds too much at the start of the roll and only gives me 14 frames. I thought the comments about realiablity were overreacting when I first heard about this camera, but I was very wrong.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Damn, sorry to hear that. It's a roll of the dice with these, that's for sure.

[@randallstewart1224]

It helps to sent it to a repair shop with a history of experience with the camera. Try Camera Wiz in Virginia. After Fuji closed its US based repair service, they were the primary go-to Fuji service shop in the country.

[@TalithaNeville]

How do you film the photo walk section of your videos? Is it a GoPro or are you using something else?

[@KyleMcDougall]

Yep. GoPro 11

[@RohkopfMS]

Try the Bronica RF645, love mine! :)

[@randallstewart1224]

It does convey that extra thrill of knowing that any shot may be your last.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Always been intriguing to me, but too much money compared to the Fuji for how I would use it.

[@JessHess-n8u]

I LOVE this medium format (hence it's in my profile pic), I also am experiencing issues with the winder and shutter release. I would also love to know of any insight on fixing it or a solve to the issue.

[@jw48335]

Man, You aren't really that far from getting to the Isle of Wight. I keep hoping one of these days that there will be an epic meetup of Roger and you 😁

[@KyleMcDougall]

One day! I need to hop on the ferry and go for a visit.

[@jw48335]

@@KyleMcDougall Suggestion: Exchange some negatives ahead of time - I bet he'd be willing to do some dark room prints of your B&W work. He can send some color negs and you can each frame one up. Roger never frames color (that I've seen). Exchange the prints when you meet up. Could work out for a couple of episodes. Maybe continue the "exchange" theme in person - you shoot the RZ, he shoots the 67ii. I don't recall either of you shooting those...

[@meljknight]

i have a GS645 and it needed a few repairs when I got it, i really WANT to love it but the focal length is not for me and the faff you need to go though with the bellows has really put me off it. Running a last roll through it then I'm putting it up for sale. Currently trying to find an alternative light medium format camera, probably gonna look into the wide Fuji's

[@KyleMcDougall]

I'm assuming you're talking about the 75mm version? I agree, for me that's just a bit too long. The 60 is probably perfect.

[@itsjacksongrant]

Hey Kyle! Where did you get this repaired?

[@KyleMcDougall]

I bought this through London Camera Exchange, so luckily it had a warranty. I'm not sure if they fixed it in house or sent it out, but it's fixed. :)

[@mrdasboot45]

I’ve the GS645S and also on mine the advance stopt ,working thank god I got it fixed because it has one of the nicest lenses imaginable. If there is one thing I don’t like about the camera is the fact that it only allows 15 exposures instead of 16 ,I wonder why Fuji done that.

[@randallstewart1224]

Pulling 16 exposures of 645 format out of a 120 roll of film requires very precise locating of the first frame and close spacing between all frames. Purely mechanical film advance mechanisms can lose tolerances over time, resulting in spacing errors, as well as user error. When Fuji issued the GA645 series, the automatic film advance and spacing allowed those spacing tolerances to be maintained, so they yield 16 frames per roll.

[@cnicolo]

Hi I saw on market the GW960 … did you try it? 😊

[@KyleMcDougall]

Not a big fan of the aspect ratio, and definitely not the 8 exposures per roll, especially nowadays with the cost of film.

[@cnicolo]

@@KyleMcDougall thank you

[@dinokuznikphoto]

What do you think about the Pro? Are the bellows really prone to leaks and camera so unreliable? I recall you having that in one of the previous videos.

[@dinokuznikphoto]

Oh, also congrats on the book! Just got it :) Talking to the same printer for our next release at AIR.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thanks, Dino. Appreciate you grabbing a copy! As for the Pro, I had one and had issues with the film advance and shutter cocking. I feel like all these models are a bit of a roll of the dice. If you get one, definitely try to get one that has had the bellows replaced.

[@dinokuznikphoto]

@@KyleMcDougall Yes I might, as I love the form factor and the fact it's more mechanical than the GA series - which I just sold. Cheers!

[@chrisspectre81]

Would love to know your thoughts on an alternative that is more reliable. Im looking for a medium format film camera. Thanks!

[@aaronthecameraguy]

Kyle, do you typically send your gear to an single individual or shop to get it repaired? I have many cameras in desperate need of a CLA but can only find a few experts in the states that work on them.

[@randallstewart1224]

For work on the Fuji models, I recommend Camera Wiz in Virginia. Because parts are limited, I suggest calling first to discuss your problem, if you have one. Otherwise, for a CLA, I know of no shop with more experience, now that Fuji no longer provides any "factory" service for these cameras.

[@KyleMcDougall]

I've been fortunate that I haven't really had to have much gear repaired. But this one went back to where I bought it here in the UK, and they fixed it for me under warranty with them.

[@alanpods______8260]

Weston-super-horse!

[@photomitch]

I have one I gotten off of eBay about 12 years ago for I think $250.00 and had no problems what so ever. This camera's been with me around the world and I gotten some fantastic negatives taken with it. I'm in the process of setting ups a darkroom for print making can't wait to see the results of the 50 rolls of film I ran through it on several trips. I think it's a great camera and has a very sharp lens. so far I've had no major problems with it,

[@jessezzz2747]

Hi, have you run into any trouble with your Fuji GA645? Does Fuji GA645 also has a bad reputation of reliability?

[@67Geeza]

I have two gs645s and a gs645w, both 645s’s have broken, winder stuck, and now the 645w is having sticky shutter problems, it’s a shame because they are such nice cameras. I modified one of the 645s by cutting off the entire winding mechanism, leaving an exposed cog which I wind to advance the film and drilled a hole in the back to see the frame numbers

[@randallstewart1224]

How to piss away $400-500.

[@scottchenoweth4937]

So very much want one. Yet, there is a clean Mamiya 645E 20 minutes away from me with both the 80mm 2.8 and a 55mm 2.8 for $550. I think I am gonna go that way unless you and your kind viewers would drop some first-hand advice on me. I had a GW670III that had only 8 rolls of film through it upon my picking it up two years ago. The 9Omm lens was just too tele for my liking. It's a rare day that one finds a longer than 35mm lens on my full-frame digi-cam or on my Leica. The 45mm lens on a 645 would be heaven for me. What say you guys? Thank you!

[@wotajared]

12:30 I got the same impression when I chose the GW690 as a main camera that the early Fuji 645s were a complementary setup, this strategy is followed up nowadays also by Fuji with Medium format GFX and APS XT in a not-so similar way. I chose the 6x9 as it's almost large format, and back in 2014 the early 645 were also reported as unreliable. Vis a vis I could have gone for a GA645 for the same price, but also the P&S nature of it was not something I wanted then... though sometimes I miss having a smaller (modern) medium format. Just for film consumption as the larger format allows cropping creativity! As for your 645 needs, a SLR with interchangeable lenses will be much more versatile. However, the RF Fuji series do save a lot of weight and some bulk by not needing a mirror box, prism and backs/inserts.

[@KyleMcDougall]

I really like 645. And I think if you don't need the extra negative size with 67, then it's a great way to go, especially nowadays with film prices increasing.

[@OoWhoIsShe]

Beautiful things))🩵

[@emilecrowther7706]

Arrrh Dirty olde Weston Super (night) Mare

[@DylanSpitz]

Ok, fine. I'll try Ektar again...but I don't need another unreliable camera. Ok, maybe just one more.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Haha, they're all unreliable! 😅

[@ianscott947]

I have a bit of fascination with British seaside towns, and though I've got some good photos from Weston Super Mare, I really don't like the place.

[@KyleMcDougall]

I'm fascinated with the British coast, but I do find it challenging to photograph.

[@monsieurgolem3392]

I have this camera and Im not sure about it, I feel its no better than a good 35mm.

[@jdebultra]

I own one as well as the GA645Zi. Ive repaired the 645w 2 times for the afvance. PITA, as really no way to solidfty the reliability. Poor design. My Zi has the lcd issue, still works but another poor design..

[@nino8344]

Hey, Kyle! How are you? I got the Fuji GS645W around 2020. I must say this camera has one of the sharpest lenses I've seen. For me, it produces some of the best 645 images. However, the camera is really fragile. If any of you are interested in buying this camera, please read the following: The first thing was that when mine arrived, the plate was already lifting, which means something inside was broken. So, I needed to put gaffer tape around the lens just in case to prevent light leaks. The second thing is that this camera has one of the worst rangefinder patches. It took me a good 5 rolls to learn how to properly focus on something close. The third thing that throws people off is the camera's shooting orientation (portrait orientation is landscape and landscape orientation is portrait). Would I sell this camera? No! But would I recommend it to anyone? To be honest, I wouldn't because, yes, it's really light and portable, but any drop or accidental hit on this camera could easily break it for good. Unfortunately, although I really like the light meter, portability, and sharpness of the lens, I still wouldn't recommend rushing to buy this camera. I will use mine until it breaks, and then it's going to go on the shelf as decoration.

[@milaeq1217]

I have the GS645S and after 2-3 rolls still can't focus properly, especially with portraits in daylight... That patch gets invisible!! How did you learn to use it?

[@nino8344]

@@milaeq1217 Place the black circular dot (gaffer tape) on the outer part of the viewfinder-facing lens, and the dot will become more visible. Some individuals suggest using blue flash gels, but in my experience, this did not prove effective. Since the viewfinder is already blue, applying a blue flash gel results in an excessively blue appearance when looking through the viewfinder, making composition challenging. Or you can get a Nikon dg-2 eyepiece magnifier + putting a circular gaffer tape which I'm using for both Fuji 645 and 6x9. If you are still not sure how to apply a circular dot let me know. Hope this helps.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Yeah, as mentioned, for me, this camera is just 'affordable' enough that I'm ok with the risk. If it was up in the £1000 I wouldn't buy one with the risk of issues.

[@slothsarecool]

ahh yes British coastal towns 😅, quite depressing in most cases

[@Shrek_Has_Covid19]

the one in this video is the least depressing one i have ever seen

[@KyleMcDougall]

They're unique. I quite enjoy them.

[@monsieurgolem3392]

Lol, they're metaphysical.

[@jasongold6751]

I was friendly with a top notch Wedding Photographer who used the less wide Fuji. results were stunning with Portra. Remember hese are old cameras! Beware! Rollies, Hassies, some Bronica are real pro cameras! The Hasselblads needed yearly services with their lenses and backs! My Pentax 6x7 never reqd a service in 20+ years! Sure! Not used. Too fluffing heavy! Your photos OK. I prefer SLR imaging! Good video.

[@erikdewilde3219]

Why do you take pictures of walls and street signs sometimes looks not so nice take the beautifull beach man

[@davidlong8217]

I just don't get it - Heaton or Van Son go around and meticulously search for compositions, but film shooters literally wander round shooting anything, like bins.Each shot costs money. I don't get this. Why so careless with compositions when it comes to film?

[@randallstewart1224]

Answer: Heaton and his peers have acquires skills and do this for a living. 95%+ of the videos up on YT are from people who never take the time to develop significant skills as a photographer, but just wallow around producing dross which is generally accepted because few offer anything better, and they do it for ego, not for money.

[@davidlong8217]

@@randallstewart1224 well I believe this channel and many others who specialise in film photography do the same - taking random images wildly with no thought, empty streets with bins.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Thank you.

[@MIZRAIM1906]

Kyle.... You are taking pictures of a bunch of nothing as per the usual. Where can I find your good work with the camera. I'm sure you are a good guy but damn.... This has become a gear channel and not about photography any more. Daniel Milner is talking about you.

[@KyleMcDougall]

Lots of other videos on this channel focused on trips, image making, creativity, etc. I do my best to keep a balance, but I'm sure it sways. And of course, no problem if you don't like it. It's all good. Appreciate you watching what you have.

[@JanetManoukian-s4v]

Great Review and great images you shot and processed , the review was very helpful as well, I just bought the Fuji GS645S W60 F4 and received it 3 days ago , I do have 2 other medium format camera but both are very heavy and bulky specially one of them , its the biggest and heaviest them all medium format has been ever made to my knowledge , its the Fuji GX680 PRO and the other one is, Mamiya 645 Pro with the winder ,I like them both a lot specially the Fuji GX 680 PRO , I could not take any ion this camera with me because of there weight's and size, anyway the reason I bought the Fuji GS645S W60 F4 ,because I a have trip to Paris France coming up on August and I be traveling to Paris ,I be there 17 days, also I be going to Amsterdam for 4 days so I wanted to take a smaller lighter medium format camera that's is easy to cary around and found this one suited fro my traveling best , I hope the camera doesn't brake down with problem that you mentioned ,at list for the time period that be traveling , I have been watching your review for last 4 years and the first one watched it was the ,Scanning Film With VueScan + Epson Scan Comparison, and It was very helpful. Im glad you liked the Ektar film its my favorite film to shoot land scape, just the colors and rendering on this film its fantastic, I do have an Instagram witch is fairly new but I will look up for your account and ill follow . Thank you for the time and effort you putting to make this helpful videos.Oh by the way I subscribed !