The End of Rolleiflex - The End Of An Era

Rolleiflex has long since been an icon of amazingly built, high end cameras originally produced by Franke & Heidecke in Germany. The name Rolleiflex actually refers to the name of the Twin Lens Reflex line of cameras that debuted in 1929.
Rolleiflex was long considered the top standard in build quality, optics and design.
Sadly, the news came out on March 13, 2015 that the German auction service, Proventura will begin liquidating the Rolleiflex factory starting on April 20, 2015.
You can see over 1,000 photographs on the companies auction listing page.
In this video I will give some thoughts about what this means and about antique camera collecting and use in general.
I know that many of you are film shooters and love old cameras. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this as well so feel free to comment.
The Proventura auction page: www.proventura....
The story from Petapixel: petapixel.com/2...
Harry Fleenor's Website: www.rolleirepai...
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Ted Forbes
The Art of Photography
3100 Main St #135
Dallas, Texas 75226
My name is Ted Forbes and I make videos about photography. I’ve been making photographs most of my life and I have a tremendously deep passion for photography that I want to share with you on KZbin.
The Art of Photography is my channel and I produce photography videos to provide a 360 degree look into the world of making images. We all want to get better so lets do this together!
I make videos covering famous photographers, photography techniques, composition, the history of photography and much more.
I also have a strong community of photographers who watch the show and we frequently do social media challenges for photographers to submit their own work. I feature the best and most interesting on the show when we do these so come check it out and get involved!
So come check it out! If you’re a fan of DigitalRev, Fro Knows Photo (Jared Polin), Matt Grainger (That Nikon Guy) or Tony Northrup - you’ll love The Art of Photography. I make video’s giving you a deeper dive into photography techniques, composition and history to compliment the other channels you love to watch.
New shows come out every Sunday, Tuesday and Friday.

[@AaronCoston]

Consider this a recommendation for Harry Fleenor. I send him a 1952 Rollei with a sticky shutter and some issues in the transport. Found it in an old photo studio. Probably sat for 30 years or so unused. When I got it back, everything was like butter. Super smooth. Total cost came in just over $300.

[@dannypryordoyle2710]

I have several post-War cameras, and had a Yashicaflex TLR for a long time. Like any other vintage machine it needed regular services. Fortunately for me, here in San Diego we have a few good old camera shops left. With good cleaning and a decent knowledge of how the camera actually works will help anyone to prevent any major catastrophes. Old cameras are great! They need friends too :)

[@BuffordTJustic3]

I've had both my Leica M's CLA'd. These cameras were made the right way originally and the craftsmanship shows in the way they feel and how they perform. Buttery smooth is only the beginning. I just bought my first Rolleiflex and on Monday its on its way to Harry. Can't wait to get it back.

[@Artie111UK]

Thanks for the video Ted. I have a Rolleiflex 3.5, bought it secondhand in the late 80's, it had been heavily used in a photo dept of a large company. I had it cla'd about 10 years ago because the slow shutter speeds were sticking. Love the image quality it produces, I'm sure it will probably outlive me !

[@stuartzalka]

I love my rolleiflex tlr. it is heavy, clumsy, and inconvenient in many shooting situation. But it is a gem of craftsmanship and fun to use.

[@sneakerjoe23]

Heavy and clumsy? One of the lightest 6x6 cameras I’ve used and easy too...

[@stuartzalka]

@@sneakerjoe23 Wow, a reply to a five year old comment. Well, having taken my Rolleiflex off the shelf in 2020 and used it considerably, I have to agree it is actually a feather weight compared to most 6x6. But it is rather difficult to focus and adjust positions for some shots. Nonetheless I have fallen back in love with it.

[@gael5739]

@@stuartzalka lol props to you for replying

[@scottbrennan4008]

"Leica hasn't produced a film camera in years." Huh? the M7 remains in production since 2002 and in 2014 (this video was released in 2015) Leica introduced the Leica M-A. Oh! And the MP since 2003. What does this guy mean by this?

[@OctaviusLucien]

I came to the comments to say precisely this.

[@TXGRunner]

Clearly he was mistaken (even truer now they just re-released the M6), but $5000 Rolleis and Leicas are in many ways are more status symbols or luxury items like a Breitling or Omega watch, or something from Tiffanys than they are cameras for photographers (pro or enthusiasts). Canon ended the EOS-1v in 2018 and Nikon discontinued their last camera (F6) in late 2021. At the time, the F6 MSRP was an eye-popping $2600. Even at half the price of a Rollei, it's tough to compete with an F3 at $700, or a near pristine OM-2n for $150. I think his main point was valid - end of an era - even as film makes a comeback.

[@fanjan7527]

The sad thing about digital cameras is that unlike film cameras which can shoot improved emulsions, when sensors improve, the camera goes out the door. I've opened a couple of dead film cameras and the mechanical engineering, especially the all mechanical cameras, it is akin to watch making. It is just breath taking. I still shoot my Yashicamat, and I am looking at a Bronica S2A since a Hassy is just kinda expensive still, especially living down here in South Africa. Those Bronica S models are just plain gorgeous.

[@johncampbell335]

I like the variety your videos provide. Changing things up occasionally is always welcome. I have a bunch of antique cameras too, and enjoy seeing the ones I don't have. Keep being awesome, Ted.

[@theartofphotography]

John Campbell Thank you John!

[@eyeeyeoh]

Rolleiflex is the camera I use the most today. It is a joy to shoot and produces beautiful pictures.

[@addictabledisaster]

Talking about repairs, I think the hardest part of the deal isn´t finding parts but someone that still repairs old film cameras and does a good job.That is what Im afraid of running off.

[@John_Mason]

Harry Fleenor is the man for Rollei repairs. I use him and actually just got one mine back the other day. The pricing is fair, it takes between 6-9 weeks.

[@theartofphotography]

John Mason Good to know John. Didn't know you had a Rollei! Which model?

[@John_Mason]

My primary is 3.5 MX-EVS Type 5, I have another one which is also an MX-EVS but is a slightly older version.

[@theartofphotography]

Great cameras…

[@John_Mason]

Certainly are, They're like swiss clocks on the inside. I need to get a few more before there too hard to find.

[@thebluemantis]

It's sad to hear that Rolleiflex is gone. Mind you, what an achievement to have been making TLRs as late as 2015 - in an age where the (amateur) market is saturated with plasticky cameras based on 35mm slrs. Some will never know the joy of a waist level finder. I bought an SL66 a few months back. A beautiful camera that might never have been - A gentleman's agreement between Victor Hasselblad and Reinhold Heidecke that Hasselblad stuck to SLRs and Rolleiflex stuck to TLRs. Until Rollei realised they might have fallen behind.

[@sknyu5li]

Hello Mr. Forbes! I'm a film camera fan like Rollei, Hasselblad, Leica and so on, living in Japan. Fortunately, I know some classic camera repair professionals here, and they really do great job! Even in Japan, cameras I mentioned above are quite pricy and getting price higher. Kodak has raised film product prices sold in Japan a few months ago, now Ektar 120 costs almost $60/5 rolls!! It's really hard to maintain cameras and shoot with films these days but I believe these are never gonna vanish. And I hope someday you come and visit camera stores in Japan. I promise you'll be so amazed!

[@CountryHouseGent]

I was at the Photography Show in the UK a few weeks ago and I was talking to a lady on the Rollei stand. She told me that Rollei are/were meeting with a wealthy investor and that it looked very promising. So maybe it's not all bad. One point she mentioned that took me completely by surprise is that all Rolleiflex's are made by one man !!!

[@theartofphotography]

CountryHouseGent Wow - did not know that!

[@joseerazevedo]

The joy of mechanical cameras is that they usually can be rapaired. I just sent my Rolleiflex 3.5F to have its shutter adjusted and the technician said he'd have to buils a few parts for it. I don't thinl this will be possible with any digital camera, say, 50 years from now. My Rolleiflex is older than me, from 1959, I guess. And its Planar is a joy!

[@CarlyWaarly]

Loved the Rolli, great camera to use, fixed lens, no nonsense, shame it is not digital.

[@KentuckyDarkroom]

Got my first Rollei. Think it's the same one you're holding. Love it!

[@jamesjacocks6221]

When we heard the news we all felt something has passed into history. The existing cameras should keep on shooting without a problem. Parts should not be an issue but repair services could eventually. A better made, more compact camera of medium format spec does not exist. I've had most of them and, while every camera has its virtues and limits, Rolleis, including their SLR types were the best precision out there. Of course, I can hardly remember a camera I had which I didn't have a emotional attachment for. Ted, a good vid. By all means do some more darkroom and more classic cameras.

[@HH60gPaveHawk]

I've had my 'cord III overhauled by Harry, and I can't say how happy I am. Excellent work. I just snagged an Rolleiflex Automat X, and I'll definitely be sending it to him to have a bright screen fitted and a full overhaul with new covers etc.

[@northstar1950]

It's great to see such enthusiasm for film cameras readings the various comments below and of course listening to Ted's excellent comments and opinions.

[@brutusgallicus3568]

I have a minty 1954 2.8C. A few years back I sent it off to Harry Fleenor to have the shutter overhauled to get the shutter speeds right. Then just recently I dropped it (in the camera bag) and although there was no visible damage The focusing knob was loose, so off to Harry Fleenor again. While it was there they called and said the film transport could use a clean and lube so that was done as well. The camera came back immaculately clean and silky smooth. It looks and functions like it could have come off the line last year! I used to shoot primarily b/w film, but now I've switched over to color negative film for the latitude and versatility.

[@helinophoto]

I think you are right about most of your observations and views. I have a Rolleiflex Automat f3.5 MX-EVS, beaten up and bought for $25 in Japan. Since I got it cheap, I did a rudimentary CLA myself (and adjusted the focus on it). Luckily the tracking and film-sensing mechanism worked very well, or I'd have to shelf it. If you've ever actually peeked into the mechanics of these cameras, you realize that they are made more or less like watches. Incredibly complex but beautiful engineering and craftsmanship. Anyway, I got it fixed up and cleaned, the only thing missing really, is the leatherette, but that can be bought, new online. My other camera, a Rolleiflex 2.8F, needed CLA too, the film-feeler mechanism didn't trigger on Acros and thinner type films. Ended up sending it off to the UK to Mr. Brian Mickleboro. (I live in Scandinavia). The total cost + shipping probably ended on around $250, but he did a really nice job on the camera, after that treatment, it will be clocking on for another 25-30 years for sure (I don't shoot that much, just a few rolls every other month). At the time, both Harry Fleenor and Mr. Krikor Maralian had a turnover-time of several weeks, so I opted for a more local alternative. Feel free to check out my blog for the notes on my trip to Japan and about my Rolleiflexes here helino-photo.blogspot.no/2013/01/rolling-with-rolleiflex.html (it's not a plug for my blog or anything, I blog way to rarely for that to be even remotely interesting, read if it you are interested, move on if you're not :) ) Oh, anyone still on the fence about buying one? I'd say, do some research about the models, then get one and get it CLA'd by a reputable repairman....they are sort of getting fewer as years pass as well. It's a "have to have it" item....for me anyways, and I love shooting with mine :)

[@PaulKnop]

I saw that video and I thought "hey wasn't there a Rollei factory nearby me?" I quickly googled it and yeah this specific factory is nearly in my neighborhood. A few months ago I walked by the factory and the Rollei sign is still up there. I dunno if they still producing cameras there but it looked like they would. It's so sad that I get into this analoge stuff just a year ago.

[@beaglebrigade1380]

What a shame. I bought my Rolleiflex in October and barely use my 5D3 anymore. The Rolleiflex is just a joy to shoot with, and film is a lot of fun and lets me make beautiful pictures. I'm mostly worried that decades from now I won't be able to CLA this camera. I also worry that 120 film won't be around in 30-40 years. I suppose parts can always be machined if you're dedicated enough. Thank you for all of your excellent videos, Ted!

[@solidsixx8562]

I might be buying a rolleiflex tomorrow for £20! It’s in my local charity shop that only opens on Thursday-Saturdays, so I’ll be there 2 hours before opening time 😂

[@gerryyaum]

Hey Ted I wanted to thank you for posting this video, it helped lead me into the world of Rolleiflex cameras. Without your video I would probably have never bought a Rollie. Here is my Rollie story. About 7 months or so I bought 2 Rolleiflex F 2.8 cameras a few days apart on eBay by accident. I was bidding on both hoping for one win and barely won both auctions. The cameras were in rougher shape, one had a non fuctioning shutter. I sent them to Harry Fleenor on your advice and other recommendations I had read online. Harry did a great job repairing my two cameras. I ended up going all in on those repairs and had new focusing screens added, plus the full CLA, shutter repair and a number of other issues were resolved. The whole process was very expensive from the intial eBay buy to paying for all the repairs. I figured thou if I was going to do this, I might as well do it right. Would I do it again? Yes in a flash, I recently used one of the cameras to do some social documentary photography in Asia and was blown away by the Rolleiflex F 2.8 I took with me. What a joy to shoot, what a tough little camera, what wonderfully sharp negs! I used the F in conjunction with a Rolleinar #1 allowing for closer focusing. Using the Rollie with the Rolleinar and shooting at f2.8 to f4 created some wonderful portraits with great bokeh. I love these images so much I plan on taking both my Rolleiflex F cameras and my Rolleinar #1,2 and 3 lens with me my next trip to Asia to do documentary work. Two Rollies should be twice the fun! I highly recommend that photogs try these wonderful tools. Thanks so much Ted for helping me down the path into the Rolleiflex world, and thanks to Harry F for his repairs. Gerry www.gerryyaum.blogspot.com

[@tritonmemnon5801]

Greetings, a brief comment on the death transition of Rolleiflex. So a thanks is in order because you brought me up to date. My first camera was. Yachica D in 1964; we then went to Mat 124 dreaming always of the day when we would get. Rolleiflex. But direction, style and shooting moved us to 35mm and our first Nikon F shortly after 1967. We are even sure you were alive then but we are not trying to be rude. So in NYC, there were a great number of Professional Repair shops and specialists. We now live part of the year in Florida where asking for quality repair for a Film camera is like asking for ice water in the Gobi Desert. So we still shoot film; we still shoot Nikon and bringing our equipment to NYC is always a funny trip now. The repair specialist at one pro shop is older than I am. He works part-time and is not training anyone one to replace his efforts after he finally retires. So we are afraid this Rare and fine camera will be subjected the same discard soon. Thanks

[@NunyaDamnBidnessBud]

Never had a Rolleflex but my first camera (cicra 1970) was a Waltzflex TLR that my dad gave me. Had to learn a lot...what fun!

[@mmeewezen]

Thank you for this video Ted. As a owner and user of several Rolleicord and -flex camera's I was also saddened by the news a few weeks back and I was wondering if you would mention it. Actually, Rollei is responsible for my huge interest now in film-photography. The build quality makes them a pleasure to work with. The square format made me rethink my compositions. The huge viewfinder helped doing that. 12 shots on a roll made me savor each shot. And no light meter made me so much more patient, I even learned Sunny-16 because of my Rollei. I still use the cameras on a regular basis. There is a fine Rollei CLA expert living near. Giving them a good CLA makes sure they can be put to work for the next 50 years.

[@theartofphotography]

Manuel Meewezen They really are amazing cameras from a design standpoint. Some day I want to get a 2.8f, but they're collectable so they're not cheap when you find them. The Tele Rollei has long been on my wish list as well.

[@mmeewezen]

The Art of Photography Maybe you should check out sandersnyc@flickr. He does some great portraits using the Tele.

[@theartofphotography]

Oh I'm very familiar with sandersnyc - followed him for years. Wonderful photographer!

[@dylanhill6736]

A true delight to shoot! I love my Rolleiflex.

[@bahstonirish]

I bought mine about a year or so ago for $300. I couldn't walk away from it at that price. And it has shot great. I haven't been a fan of it for the color pictures so much, but the black and white have come out better than I had hoped for. Given that my camera is sixty-plus years old and still running, I don't think them going out of business is going to be a huge issue right away. Like you said, they are built like tanks. As long as you take a reasonable amount of care with them they appear to be able to go decades without issues.

[@theartofphotography]

Man you got a good deal. Excellent!

[@AppleJack1997]

My grandfather owned a 2.8F which was sold about 10 years ago by my father. This was way before I got into photography, so had no idea what the value of it was. Wish I had it today. And I agree Ted, they don't make 'em like they used to. Nothing like pre-90s German engineering. My 1984 Mercedes S-class still gets driven daily.

[@theartofphotography]

Nice Jack. Yeah that 2.8F is a fine machine! Here's to German Engineering!

[@Grasyl]

I like my Rollei 35 35mm Camera and I'd really like to have a Rolleiflex, but I'm only owning a Seagull 4A103, but its great.

[@63Biscuit]

I have a bevy of film cameras. The ones that have needed CLA's beyond my own abilities include my Hasselblad 500c/m body (and one A12 back), a Canon FtB that was an old family heirloom, an Ensign 420 Selfix, and a Zeiss Ikoflex Ic. The most expensive CLA was on the Hassy, but the Canon FtB was only $50 - and that included getting the jammed shutter fixed! Anytime I buy a vintage camera, I assume that the light seals will need to be replaced, as they've often deteriorated into gummy black goo, and eBay has been a great place to get these precut for really reasonable prices. Generally, though, I've found that the craftmanship that went into vintage cameras means that they're often in great shape even after long periods of abuse or (in many cases, worse) non-use. Go shoot some....it'll make you a better photographer even in digital.

[@AuthenticSound]

You gave the answer yourself, Ted, it's about craftmanship that has gone. At Photokina, I just took ten seconds to hold a Leica in my hands and make a click. Ten seconds, not more, since that would make it impossible to go back to my Fuji... You know, I hadn't got experience with restoring an old filmcamera, but I had a similar experience in the field of recording equipment. Working on the idea of producing vinyl recordings (as you know, and we're progressing :-) ), I stood in Switserland in a workshop of Andreas Kuhn (Studer analog audio). He bought the complete analogue division of the legendary brand of taperecorders on a moment were the new (I believe American) company that bought Studer, just dumped all old 'stuff', including ton's of documentation, drawings, prototypes, parts, etc. Andreas Kuhn's father and grand father worked at Studer and he was fortunate enough to have a job that made it possible for him to buy ALL equipment, ALL documentation, ALL drawings and ALL spare parts. If you stand in front of such a Taperecorder, see the precision, here its sound (... really...), than one realises that there is something wrong with the goals our time sets. If there is no place any more for such strive for perfection and exceptionalisme, what are we striving for then? Anyway, I bought a Studer A80R and a Studer Mixing console 269, which are both in restoration now. It is rather expensive, but can be done still with the original parts, certainly since the devices I bought were pre-processor time. The machines of the eighties all include two microprocessor's of 8 bit (!), revolutionary at the time, still working great, but the memory on a chip lasts for 15 à 20years. Andreas has the original machine by Studer to erase the memory and write the original program again, but once this machine stops working, the '80s machines are virtually dead... And point is also, Ted, do take an old Kodak Retina reflex, or a Leica (even a new one), or your Rolleiflex, or an old Zeiss Ikon camera, or, ... and compare that quality to what we get delivered from Japan (at the best). So your title is perfectly chosen, we live in a time were we close on striving for the best possible solutions and techniques. We enter a time were marketeers have the last words in how good something only may be. I understand why Rolleiflex went out of business, but it makes me feel sad in a way.

[@theartofphotography]

AuthenticSound Ah - you got the Studer! I remember you said you were going to do that… amazing?

[@AuthenticSound]

The Art of Photography Well, it is not here yet, but it won't be that long! For someone who just quits his day job to follow his heart and passion, this only is a minor decision :-). In May we fly to Vigo in Spain to meet Philip Newell, a legendary recording studio builder (he worked in the 70's with Richard Branson), to talk about the possibility of building our own recording studio, both for very niche top quality analogue recording and (possibly) a more commercial use for third parties digitally as well. O my, all those decisions for a simple musician... Next, I'll fly to Dallas, to meet you in person and discuss 'our' project in detail :-)!

[@theartofphotography]

So exciting! You are welcome here anytime. If I can make it back to Europe this year - I'll see if I can get to Belgium.

[@kellytrimble4120]

I have a Rollieflex that we've had around since the 60s that I ressurected and started shooting transparencies and color with recently. It is GREAT for what I call street photography. People are the least self-conscious, more open, more interested in what you are doing, less likely to dive under the table, etc. when I walk around shooting with the Rolleiflex than any other antique camera I have, including Hasselblads, old Nikons, grallex, or anything. I can put it on a more modern (80s era) flash and still get the same interest. However, it is somewhat old, and has a tendency to jam a little, and the light meter is spastic. I think it just needs to be cleaned and lubricated, but I've been afraid to try to disassemble it myself. I very very much appreciate the reference to your Rolleiflex repair guy. I've done google searches and asked every camera shop still in business to find somebody familiar with these cameras. Even though I have to develop all of my own color and transparency film, it is probaby the most fun I've had with a camera in a long time.

[@danbloodworth3763]

I agree 100%, I have a Rolleiflex F H , although I don't use it much anymore I still love it and it is in mint condition . Not saying the new DSLR cameras are not a wonder, I'm getting a little tired of not using my brain . To take a roll of film , soak , on to the trays, like magic , your work appears. Great tutorial. Thanks Dan

[@claudiocastellikurageart]

very good point! I think that by having antique cameras, if You are a curious person, You'll get into opening them Yourself, and eventually building Your own "antique camera" . Technology at that point was still "human", and somehow understandable. But well, that' s mostly about large format, when You go to medium or 35 mm all those little gears will send you crazy

[@puddingtime3497]

Hi Ted, Big fan! First time commenter Very sad news about Rolleiflex. I do not have one myself, but I do have a Microflex MPP which was produced and launched in Britain in 1958. Due to import restrictions the Rolleiflex was not available to the British public until 1960. Any way…. Again, Big fan =)

[@theartofphotography]

Andrew Mallett thanks for the comment Andrew!

[@josephgioielli]

I brought an Ansco Speedes Special (rebadged Agfa Isolette II) I wanted a pocket MF camera. First I found camera services, then I looked for cameras that could be repaired. I was very patient and waited for a low bid camera. I paid $15 for it. The shutter and aperture were frozen, the bellows were shot. I paid $129. for the rebuild. I love it and have no regrets, but I doubt I would get another camera repaired. I try to restrict all my film shooting to medium format, this does fine for all the "serious" work. I love the 120/620 box cameras for fun. But if I can sort out the problem myself, on the shelf marked "retired."

[@vangstr]

I’ve had a 2.8f overhauled by Harry Fleenor a few years ago. He did a good job but I would not recommend him again. His overhaul is a la carte and will charge you if you want certain things fixed. At the time, I thought overhauling a camera should include everything complete aside from cosmetic flaws. Harry charged me $850. I was a bit disappointed ☹️ in that regard. My second Rolleiflex acquisition was a 3.5f and I decided to send it to Alex of magicflexcamera in Germany 🇩🇪. He charges double the rate of Harry but the camera came back almost brand new! When Alex says overhaul, he means it. Everything is disassembled completely and a true overhaul - unlike Harry who simply did an a la carte repair. I would highly recommend Alex over Harry!

[@mavfan1]

I've had several old Konicas fixed by Greg Weber out of Nebraska. When Konica shut their U.S. camera operations down he purchased a large stock of parts and has been fixing them for decades. If he doesn't have a part he can get it from contacts in Japan so even though it's 35 years since a new Konica was made it's still easy to get them CLA'd and repaired.

[@theartofphotography]

mavfan1 very nice - thanks for sharing

[@ghw7192]

I must love my Rolleiflexes as I have 4 of them. One of then has recently gone to Harry Fleenor to be CLA'd and the others, along with their Rolleicord III brother, with have their turn. On my last road trip to Canada, I took my Rolleiflexes in their Thinktank backpack, a couple of ancient Rollei 35's and a whole lot of film and the results were far better than I expected. I just wish that my photography was a good as these cameras..As always, great video, Ted! Thanks for sharing!

[@Argyll9846]

The Rolleiflex took me through the 60's, the Hasselblad 500C through 70's. Both are great cameras and it's sad to see that Rolleiflex will not be around in the future.

[@stephencrowfoot244]

I'm using for 'bush' photography (here in Australia), a Rolleicord 1V with Xenar lens, 65 years 'old', makes beautifull images and all the shutter speeds function, how's that for quality? It's small and light and makes a big negative. Just don't leave the film in the camera for too long too avoid the dreaded bend on the bottom roller, same goes for all similar designs. Great video, thank you.

[@johnrobinson5955]

Hi Ted. I own a Linhof Technika 70 3 lens outfit from 1963. The shutters are synchro-compur, and if they wear out, you can have new copals put on, if you want a brand new start. To me, (like many), it's the feel. It's grand old craftmanship. And yes, you can put a digital back on them. But I don't think I will. They make the film back for Alpa as well.

[@CalumetVideo]

With all the resurgence in film cameras, I think it would be profitable for people to learn the repair trade and start repairing them. I think there is a living that can now be made repairing film cameras.

[@keithnichols7926]

In college, my officemate had a 1955 vintage Rollieflex that was run over when he dropped it in the street. It showed no evidence of the mishap, but the film-advance gearing was distorted so the crank wouldn't turn. Rollei repaired the camera and returned it with a note saying "this camera has been dropped !"

[@jcollins1305]

Rollei really ceased to exist in 1980, when they declared bankruptcy the first time. The companies that came after were shells of the former company. My photo teacher says it will be a miracle if camera companies are around in 10 years.

[@Steaphany]

I never thought about how a manufacturer could place themselves in a position to compete with their former self. I wonder how secure Voigtländer may be as they too only offer 35mm and medium format film cameras. At least their equipment is priced a bit better than the HY6's $8K, yet I have a 1930's era Bessa that my farther found in Germany during WWII and was the camera used to take the family snaps while I was a child. It leaves me to wonder if I should invest the $3K for a Bessa III or continue the functional life of a roughly 85 year old antique. Voigtländer's self competition is a factor here with me. What makes this all the harder is my 1930's era German made Bessa is just as functional and capable as it was when new. Contemporary films have advanced, so in that respect, an image captured today may actually be superior to a film of the 1940's or 1960's. The only advantage of the Bessa III is it would be new, offer a traditional 6x6 or 6x7 image, and would be made by Cosina in Japan while carrying the Voigtländer name. I also have an example where a digital suffered from self competition. I purchased my Sigma SD14 and as Sigma came out with successive designs, all priced higher than I felt necessary for the claimed advance in technology, I went backwards to their last film design, the SA9, a 35mm film, wow full frame too, plus two zooms and spent $35 to do it

[@theartofphotography]

Steaphany Yeah - its accelerated a lot in the last 20 years. Camera companies now put new models of lenses and bodies in a very short time span. Things have changed. I bet that old Bessa is amazing. I've got a Bessa 6x9 from the late 30's that I absolutely adore. Image quality is insanely good.

[@rolandthomasset1713]

Hi, thank you for this video. I have been a Rollei enthusiast eversince I had one in my hand but had to be satisfied for a while with an Ikoflex which I kept while in the army in ft.Manmouth. Then bought my Rollei in Boston in 53 which I still have in near condition. But I still had to own a Leica ! so I got a used F something with screw mount after having brought back home a Minolta model lll from Korea and finally got an M-6 like new. Now which camera is my favorite ? Well the Rollei of course. I think the 6x6 image beats the 24x36 so much and the quicker loading plus various ways to view and focus. I had the opportunity to do some first aid on some of these Rollei models and have found the construction just terrific. I think that people who by some just to phut on their shelves cannot fully learn what they can do for them especially unders stressfull conditions such as wedding photography. I hope the deceased Rollei designers now in heaven can read this !

[@jodroboxes]

Good to see your channel is doing good! Keep it up ted!

[@theartofphotography]

jodroboxes I'm trying! Thanks!

[@andrewfrost8866]

Thank you Ted. Sad news indeed.

[@theartofphotography]

Andrew Frost They don't make 'em like they used to.

[@allenwilliams498]

This is really sad, but Rollei hung on far longer than I expected. Had I the money, I'd have bought one at six grand. The key phrase being “had I the money” though. My first serious camera was a German Rolleiflex SL35 in 1971. The meter failed some time ago, but I have never bothered to get it repaired - still using the camera, otherwise completely reliable 43 years later, now worth considerably more than it was when new!

[@walliswizard]

I was surprised to see Rollei UK at the Photography Show here in the UK last week. Those guys were crossing their fingers that a buyer would be found still, but I didn't hold out much hope for them. They had a cabinet full of "old stuff" for sale, but seemingly only one modern product, the Rollei HY6. Sad, the world needs more than Canon and Nikon these days, and with the right investment I bet they could have made some fabulous modern digital TLRs?

[@theartofphotography]

Glenn Smith Technically, Samsung owns the brand so you'll probably continue to see the name on things, but Rollei as cameras seem to be gone. The HY6 is exactly what I was talking about - "discerning enthusiast" film camera for $8000. Wrong camera and definitely the wrong price.

[@jorgemtrevino]

You know, although Rollei was famous *mainly* for their fine watchlike TLR's, they also made some of the finest MF SLR's, the SL66 and the crown jewel of F&H, the 6008 _Integral._ Much superior to Hasselblad in design and features. It even provided connectivity for an early digital back that unfortunately came too late to compete with the Japanese. I had one and sold it for pennies to the dollar with an array of accessories, backs and lenses; it was a superb machine. Kept my TLR's tho; ran today some HP5+ through the 2.8F Xenotar 80. 🙂

[@cylurian]

You hit the nail when you said "5K"! I wanted one, but too expensive.

[@antonioramirez694]

I realize that this video is from 2015, but even then, Leica had at least two production film cameras: M7 and MP. Currently, they still have those two and the M-A. Nice video, though. I own a 3.5 MX-EVS exactly like yours. Wonderful camera.

[@rictrexell2118]

The question is not can you get parts for them, but can you find a repairman. In 20 years, perhaps less, there will be few of the old repairman left that worked on these old cameras.

[@EdEditz]

I still have an "IkoFlex" TLR. It looks a lot like the Rolleiflex in this video only not nearly as well build with the handle to advance the film etc. Still, a very cool camera to shoot with. It does 6x6cm negatives. You're sure to get into cool conversations if you take it onto the street to shoot with it. So many people still love them, and rightfully so. (A digital back for it might be nice, although I expect expensive as hell)

[@theartofphotography]

EdEditz Never had an IkoFlex, but I've heard great things. Very affordable if I recall…

[@EdEditz]

The Art of Photography I can believe it must have been an affordable alternative to the Rolleiflex at the time. I bought mine second hand on a trip to Prague, in an obscure little photography shop. I paid the equivalent of about a 130 US dollars for it in 1996. Not cheap for a camera that old but I really loved it so I bought it. It still works fine though. The shutter etc is all in perfect nick. :)

[@theartofphotography]

EdEditz Very cool!

[@redriverscout4404]

EdEditz I also have a Ikoflex which was made by Zeiss Ikon in the 1950s and seemed to be a half hearted attempt at the time to compete with Rollei. It really was a strong competitor with the Rollei's budget model the Rollicord. It kind of fit somewhere in between the two in terms of features. If well taken care of they can be just as nice but like nearly everything made by Zeiss Ikon it was over engineered and is like a swiss pocket watch inside so finding someone who is willing to put in the work to service one can be a pain and kind of expensive. Honestly I think a Ikoflex or Rollicord type model could have really helped save Rollei. It was not just that they were competing with themselves and were sticking with film. It is also simply that the economic situation right now makes having a business build on being a luxury good is not viable anymore. Even Sneider, and Leica and Zeiss started putting their name on cheap point and shoots just to keep the lights on.

[@randallstewart175]

Rollei TLRs started in early 1930s. Zeiss responded to its success with the Ikoflex line of TLRs around 1936. While the Ikoflex was probably as well made as the Rollei cameras, the features and lenses on the Ikoflex made it more like a Rolleicord than a Rolleiflex. By late 1950s, the TLR as a camera class was considered dead. Zeiss terminated the Ikoflex,while Rollei turned the Rolleiflex into a very high priced collectors camera, turning its major designs to excellent 6x6 SLRs which competed with Hasselblad, very conservatively designed but well buit 35mm SLRs, and the famous Rollei 35 compact cameras, which economically saved the company at the time.

[@spondon12]

Sad that Rolleiflex is gone but unfortunately I'm not surprised. Fighting to stay alive in a small market space, old design film cameras and really expensive new film/digital pro cameras (I've never seen a Hy6 but they look to be pretty nice) has to be a tough deal. As to keeping old cameras alive, I have plenty of experience there as I am still pretty much strictly a film shooter who collects and uses old film equipment. Its not I think so much the parts that will be hard to find, but its getting harder and harder to find the people with the knowledge to fix the cameras. They are still out there, but its getting harder to find the people to work on these things. Where I used to have a local guy who did great work, now (he retired) I have to ship a body or lens off to some other city, or maybe another country. It can be done, but its more of a hassle and more expensive. Many times instead of a CLA people are just buying a "new" used body. I have a room full of parts and am trying to teach myself the basics. I'm sure a lot of cameras will die in the process. ;) I'm awaiting now the return of an Alpa 4b from a specialist repair person in New York. Expensive? Yes, but hopefully worth it to be able to use such a rare and finely made old camera. I wasn't going to fix it now, money is tight at the moment, but as a friend pointed out the knowledge needed to repair this old thing wasn't going to be there forever. In a few years the gentleman who fixed it may have retired and then...?

[@stephenhopkins1068]

Had my 30 year old FM2 repaired. Got it back and 2weeks later it had the same problem so I sent it back. Came back and 2weeks later it stopped moving film. After paying for 2 repairs already, I just retired the camera. Stuck with my Hass for smaller film shooting. Have since gone digital Nikon. Repairs suck. I loved that fm2.

[@NicholasColdingDK]

I love my Rollei´s!

[@redriverscout4404]

As I mentioned in another post I think what killed them was not that they stuck with film. That can still be a very viable market. The biggest problem I think was their price point. They were even well over and above Leica. In the economic times we live in you can't really expect to do well as a high end gadget and partly a nostalgia item for the wealthy. A new Rollicord affordable model would have likely made them more then enough to keep the doors open. For one the Lomography crowd would have gone nuts for them. But they largely priced themselves completely out of the market. The strange thing is they understood this problem and addressed it with the Rollicord decades ago. Seems weird they would not see this coming. I am also very curious to see who buys the factory. Ferannia came back from the dead. Could we see a new Rollei or a new TLR brand using their old equipement? Could be interesting. As for repairs the biggest problem is not getting a Rollei fixed or serviced it is finding a proper camera repair man who can still fix ANY mechanical camera be it a Soviet Zenit E or a Rolleiflex. Simply put very few still do. A few years back Pentacon in Dresden lost the last guy there who knew how to completely take apart and overhaul a Pentacon Six. This is a company that employed thousands in the 1980s which is not that long ago really in terms of a modern lifespan. There is exactly one place in my town left that still actually fixes cameras and even they do gaming console repairs to keep the lights on. Most camera "repair" now is firmware updates and RMAs on DSLRs. It is like when I used to fix computers we used to do circuit board level physical repairs to components. Nobody has done that in about a decade. Now you just RMA it or swap out parts till it works. The idea of truly repairing anything is a dying art. That is why so many classic camera shooters and collectors are becoming DIY repair men and women too.

[@sutirthade]

i had the same model that you have but i sold it off .. now i feel so stupid because the guy i gave it to fix it did not do a good job... same problem of tracking and a sticky shutter at lower speeds .. luckily i have found a better guy but the mx eve is no more with me .. i wanna get one like that back ..

[@MarkusKretzschmarPhoto]

Hey Ted, what u said in your endcard sounds awesome! Since i just recently fortunately discovered your channel im glad that you gonna go basic in the future and i will most certaily enjoy that. Thanks and keep up the good work! I know you will

[@theartofphotography]

Markus Kretzschmar Yeah its time to get back to where we started. I love the photo history and we'll still do a lot of that. But I want to start shooting more and incorporate that into the show. I started this to make the show I would want to watch. Time to bring that back in a little bit.

[@MarkusKretzschmarPhoto]

Yeah, I love photo history as well which is why i started my history youtube channel in the first place but I still shoot a lot. Looking forward to how you incorporate that into your show. Bye and have a nice monday

[@theartofphotography]

I just subscribed to you! Can't wait to see more - keep up the great work!

[@MarkusKretzschmarPhoto]

Wow! This is really cool to me :)

[@theartofphotography]

Looks great!

[@knownaigm]

I had 2 Canon AE-1 Programs CLA'd that both had advance lever jams and one had a stuck shutter/mirror. Cost $95 per camera and they came back humming and purring. Probably will cost more for a Rollei but maybe this will give you an idea of a ballpark.

[@HH60gPaveHawk]

My primary MF shooter is a 'cord IIIA. Great camera, and I was hoping to someday get a new flex made for me when I had the money before they went out of business. It's a real shame! The simple lenses they used had such incredible character when combined with MF film; none of my 35mm cameras can match it.

[@MadisMcLembrus]

I'm lucky to live in the same city with a real old-school camera repair guy. I've had a number of cameras repaired by him. Basically an all-mechanical camera can almost always be fixed.

[@theartofphotography]

Madis McLembrus Good repair guys are rare. You are lucky to have someone close…

[@jorgemtrevino]

When the news of Rollei demise came out it made me feel immensely sad; Rolleiflexes, along with Leicas & Nikons, were the most iconic professional and high echelon cameras of the 20th century. As you very well put it, *everything* in them is butter smooth. My first Rollei was an E with a Schneider Xenotar 80/2.8 which was a joy to use. Although it still works like a Swiss watch, even the slow speeds and uncoupled selenium meter, and I keep some five dozens of HP5+ in the fridge, along with some liter bottles of HC-110 plus enough Rapid Fixer to go through them, scanning has just become too much of a chore. I doubt they will ever do anything else than sit as conversation pieces, which is just what they've done since the late 90's that I became enthralled with other silky machines, Leicas M. Nevertheless they deserved better. I pray somebody manages to build a functional digital film for them one day. Ditto for Leicas and Nikon FM2s. What do you want, I read science fiction! :D

[@RicardoRMedina]

I currently use a Rolleicord V. I love the quality of the larger than 35mm negative.

[@randallstewart175]

I am surprised that in 2016 you can still find quality repairs for high quality cameras half a century old. My own experience of the exception to that rule was about 20 years ago when I sought full a full CLA of my Canon 7 rangefinder body [last of the Canon RF models from mid-60's]. The job was done expertly by one of the best repairmen in the US, however he could not get the high shutter speeds to function at speed. I note that by that date, Canon USA wouldn't do this repair, this shutter being one of the most complex and difficult to repair. The parts and repair knowledge/experience had just slipped away over time. As these old repair experts retire or expire over the next few years, I expect some of these complex cameras to become "display only".

[@anta40]

Those Rollei TLRs are my main camera nowadays: 6x6 negatives, pretty compact camera. Sure folding cameras can be lighter, but I'm not a fan. After all, I'm not that excited in shooting with 35mm film. Too bad there's no "Rolleiflex system TLR", something like the Mamiya C TLR system.

[@LaaszloKiss]

Sad to hear about it, but there's still a slight chance for soemone to buy the whole factory in one and give a new birth to it. Even if the brand itself is not for sale, it could be a good idea to kind of "update" this factory and keep the technology alive, thus ensuring that sometime in the future the legendary solid Rollei products will see the light again, maybe under a whole new brand name... I know it sounds crazy for the first time, and it never gonna be the same again, but who knows...? There might be a photography enthusiast man/company who dares to go up the stream ;-)

[@theartofphotography]

László Kiss Would be amazing. But its complicated - Samsung owns the Rollei name. Would be amazing to see someone take this over.

[@rejeannantel1185]

I just would like to address your viewers Ted ! Ted gives so much and asks you, the viewer, to remember to "check" the "I Like It" thumb (if you do really like it). It is just weird that I see so many positive comments while the "I Like It" thumb number stays almost unchanged. I think doing it - checking the "I Like It" box would show your reconnaissance and the appreciation of what Ted does. Remember that you do not have to leave a comment to check that box. As I recall this Podcast was in nomination for best podcast of its type last year. I do not know how they chose these but my guess is that the number of "I like It" thumb may well be a part of it. Thanks Ted for such good podcast.

[@theartofphotography]

Rejean Nantel Thanks Rejean ;-) The podcast awards are very subjective. They changed hands this year so I really don't know enough about the process… I don't need awards though - the fact people like the show is more compliment than any award. Thank YOU!

[@ToddB987]

I've two cameras CLA from Harry. Awesome job! I recouped the money spend on repairs by shoot paid jobs. My customers are awe struck with the images that are shot with these cameras. So much more dynamic tonal in both black and white and color than with digital.

[@rorrt]

They don't make 'em like they used to. But maybe thats a good thing. Rolleis are a real pleasure to use and shoot with. I had one, but did a trade with it for some old KMZ cameras, which i don't really regret. My one was really temperamental and most of the time it was a real hassle to use..

[@MoveAhead101]

The sucessor of Rollei DHW Phototechnik went bust in 2015. However DW Phototechnik is still alive and produces and repairs Rolleiflex and Hy6 Medium Format Cameras (2017).

[@josephgioielli]

I can't say I'm surprised. There is just no way to make the production of film cameras, esp. high end film cameras viable. The camera has now become a consumer product designed to be replace every 4 years. My fathers K1000 lasted 30 years. When it finally broke he replaced it with another k1000. It's mine now and still going strong.

[@iandvaag]

Does this mean that Rollei/Agfa films will be gone too? B&H discontinued Nightbird 800 about a week ago. Is that unrelated to this? It would be a real shame to lose those emulsions, particularly their infrared -- one of the last on the market. On another note, I'm really excited about the prospect of more film photography and darkroom videos to come!

[@Kref3]

iandvaag No, Rollei was never a company name but always a brand name. And the brand was split a long time ago. It was originally used by Franke & Heidecke for their premium line TLR cameras. When they went out of business some of the company rooms and machinery as well as the brand name for TLRs were taken over by DHW Fototechnik GmbH in 2009 who tried to keep the camera business alive. They had to close 2014 and now sold all the machinery, so Rollei the camera builder is now officially dead forever. Nothing is left. The Rollei film brand actually comes from Macodirect, but as far as I know they only sell them. I have no idea, who actually makes the film, but they are in no way related to the Rollei camera maker.

[@allenwilliams498]

+T Latz ...and the Rollei brand name was sold to yet another company (not the German one which has closed) for application to cheap(ish) digital cameras, so the name at least may live on there. The films are branded Rollei by Maco and are either made to Maco's specification on commission by established manufacturers (at present Ilford for the RPX types) or are repackaged Agfa aviation and specialist films made in Belgium by the successors to the Gevaert part of the former Agfa empire.

[@JSMatteson]

An interesting decision on Rolleiflex's part when one considers the growing interest in Vivian Maier's work. As an intern and docent at the MuseumofArtWSU, I have enjoyed Maier's work and having the opportunity to share her street photography with our patrons (museum.wsu.edu/CorbisandMaier.html). According to www.vivianmaier.com, "In 1952 she purchased her first Rolleiflex camera. Over the course of her career she used Rolleiflex 3.5T, Rolleiflex 3.5F, Rolleiflex 2.8C, Rolleiflex Automat and others." Do you think smartphone/tablet retro photo filter apps played a significant role in Rolleiflex's demise as well? Many thanks for your wonderful vlog!

[@theartofphotography]

JS Matteson Its complicated - the Rolleiflex brand has been owned by Samsung for a while now. They're simply not selling cameras because they've not evolved to digital. Not so much smartphone apps, but the professional digital camera market.

[@neilpiper9889]

Why are there no videos on the 600 series of slr Rolleiflex cameras on KZbin. They used Schnieder lenses on their last models which always blew Zeiss lenses out of the water.

[@Magnusscipioiterum]

Nothing is better than shooting with a Rollieflex TLR. I have two and I'm sad to see this company fold like that. Truly sad

[@landesnorm]

The old and older film cameras demanded that you understood light, lighting, and exposure. You had to have faith in your knowledge of film, processing, and the cameras. Some really good photogs who used the Rollei were Avedon, Roman Vishniac, Werner Bishoff, and Magerat Bourke-White. Rollei also made a series of studio strobes but only for a short while. I shot with TLRs for a short while and with a Rollei for few PR shoots. I miss those cameras but not the time pressured darkroom work that is mandatory with film. cameras.

[@joepphoto]

One add. In the beginning, You say leica hasnt made a film camera in years, but they recently released two film-cameras. One even without a lightmeter. Besides that, great episode again. Sad news to hear rollei go.

[@theartofphotography]

Joep van Aert yep - my mistake. I haven't followed Leica very closely in the last few years…

[@tjsnaps]

I've never owned a Rolleiflex but I've used them.. great cameras. As where many cameras of yore. I love the digital workflow but I hate the cameras compared to using my old film cameras

[@theartofphotography]

tjsnaps Seems like construction and craft have just given way to making them cheaper.

[@kq6up]

The Rolleiflex was my first MF camera. Incredible B&W image quality.

[@LuisAltwer]

Hi Ted, I really enjoy your pre digital camera videos. Any plans on doing some large format in the future?

[@theartofphotography]

Luis Altwer Absolutely

[@LuisAltwer]

Great, looking forward to it.

[@HawklordLI]

Camera repair issues? I live in the KCMO area and there is one film camera repair technician left in the area who has his own shop and he is well into his 70's. They are an 'endangered species' so to speak.

[@MaxLamdin]

i really think rollei shot themselves in the foot continuing to make film cameras with only slight improvements over their older models, of course its sad to see them go but this is the way the world works, they made exceptional TLR's which i am not into personally but i can see the attraction, but yes, they were competing with themselves which did not benefit them at all and i think they kind of doomed them selves in this way? and Ted 'getting back to basics' sounds good to me

[@greendeane1]

Put a HUUUUUUUUGE sensor in them! I had a Yashika knock off, used it for years.

[@dirkklein-beswick4263]

Rolleiflex is pretty cool stuff. But in general it does not make sense any more for prof Photographers. Because there are not enought customers who like to pay the extra costs who result by using such an amazing System. Of course they say, " Oh these pictures, yes the sharpnes and so on is amazing, but when you tell them about prices forFilm´s, developement and Prints.... The answer is allways.. Oh well we do dont want to pay "Artist Prices". So, at the end, there are only some Artists and Enthusiasts who willl use such stuff. Sad, very sad...

[@thethirdman225]

What do I think? Well, I think you're right that Rollei have only really been competing against themselves for a long time. I was actually surprised they were still making Rolleiflexes. That Hasselblad and Leica are still in business is due entirely to the amateur market. Professionals simply don't use them in anything like the numbers they used to, in the case of Hasselblad, or at all in the case of Leica. In 30 years in the business I've never seen a Leica in the hands of a pro. Professional photographers may enjoy their craft but in a nutshell, they still have a business to run and anything that doesn't pay its way gets the bullet. The cost benefit of these high end models don't stack up. None of the studio guys I know even use medium format digital cameras because the files are too big and the acquisition costs are way too high. For amateurs, particularly rich ones, photography is entirely discretionary spending. The most memorable impression I have of Rolleiflex is in some vision I saw of David Bailey as a young Turk in London in the 1960s. But Bailey's pictures were not remarkable because they were shot on a Rolleiflex. They were remarkable because they tried to show how a film frame could not contain such large personalities as Mick Jagger, Michael Caine or Andy Warhol..

[@theredduc]

Hasselblad H system is probably the most used camera by high end commercial fashion, editorial and studio photographers all over the world. Just flick through a copy of Vogue or look at any designer fashion adverts on a billboard... I'm guessing you're talking about photographers that shoot general low end stuff like weddings, mom/pop portraits, school photos etc? In which case, they are unlikely lot to be able to justify having one.

[@thethirdman225]

theredduc Not at all. I'm referring to mainstream commercial photographers who do product shots, advertising etc.. None of them are using Hasselblads any more and have not done so for many years. They will all tell you the same thing: the clients don't like having to deal with such large files. What is your point about Vogue shooters using Hasselblads? Vogue don't refer to photographer's gear. It's not part of their brief so I'm unsure as to how you can make that claim. Those I know who shoot billboards mostly do it on dSLRs, like the EOS 5D. Your comment is certainly true for 10 years ago but not now. These days it's about workflow. I hadn't seen a Hasselblad in years until a mate of mine dragged one out of his cupboard at work a few months back. He just uses it occasionally for yucks but he doesn't do any of his normal work on it. I don't include wedding photographers, of whom I know one and media or documentary photographers, of whom I know literally hundreds, because their work almost never involves studios or assistants so their equipment has to be more portable. I know plenty of commercial studio photographers and none are using medium format any more.

[@Kref3]

TheThirdMan When I read your first comment, I did not really understand, what you meant. Never having seen a pro with a Leica, come on. Then I read your answer to theredduc. I understand what you mean now and you are 100% correct. Not being a professional photographer myself but just a hobby shooter (and quite a bad one, I have to admit) I never really was interested in studio work with assistants. The problem here is that you have quite a tight definition of what is a pro. When you speak of pros, you think almost exclusively of studio photographers and excluded the media and documentary photographers. When I hear the term pro photographer, I tink of the Magnum style in the first place and of the Clyde Butcher & Ansel Adams large format fine art style secondly. In the end a pro is a person, who makes a living out of photography. Anyone who does that is a pro. Excluding the documentary shooters, who untill the digital revolution still quite often shot Leicas or excluding the art shooters, who use about any camera that suits there needs from Galen Rowell's 35mm Nikon to Butcher's 8x10 Deardorff from that list as you did is as big a mistake as taking the product shooters in their studios from the list as I did. Nowadays I think you are perfectly right, there are few to none pro photographers, who still use medium or small format film, but your comment, that in 30 years as a pro you have not seen one pro shooting a Leica can be true only, because your definition of a pro photographer excluded so many, that in my book are very professional.

[@thethirdman225]

T Latz _"The problem here is that you have quite a tight definition of what is a pro."_ Yes, that's right. But it was done to illustrate a point about the state of the market and why cameras like Hasselblad and Rollei are not nearly as prevalent as they once were. It wasn't done to say that only studio pros are "real" photographers or anything like that. The other fields are not really the places you would be likely to find them anymore anyway, with say, wedding photographers mostly using full frame digital instead. News and documentary photographers have not really used anything other than 35mm or the modern equivalent in my working lifetime. So, to Leica - and I have to say, I was really hoping not to have to explain this but here goes. My views are controversial. I am frequently told I am wrong. I have been called a liar and a troll. I have also been dismissed on the grounds that "some people are looking for this" or "a better camera or lens will make a great photo even greater" or that "yes, art is important but so is equipment". None of this is true. Leica has the reputation for being "the best". Unfortunately, in my experience, best is as best does. Most professional photographers are either running a business or working for a large agency. Because of this, any camera has to pay its way. This is why the market is dominated by the Japanese manufacturers because, frankly, while none is perfect, they're very good. They simply deliver on bang for buck and for those running a small business, that is extremely important. We all tend to assume that professionals will want the best equipment and that cost is no object in a competitive market. Again, I have to reiterate that this is only true when there are noticeable differences. This can usually only be revealed in back-to-back comparisons, which no client will do (and probably couldn't see a difference in the final image anyway). Here is the controversial bit: from a professional point of view and in real-world shooting, Leica doesn't do anything that any other camera can't do. Yes; they are lovely but the qualitative differences of one camera over another in real-world shooting are negligible and any advantages have to be refracted through the (very considerable) cost difference. Leica does not turn amateurs into professionals and it does not make photographers better. I understand why people want them in the same way as I understand why they want a Ferrari. But in the same way as a Ferrari doesn't make you a better driver, a Leica doesn't make you a better photographer. Ansell Adams and Clyde Butcher were great photographers and would have been whatever brand of camera they chose. Galen Rowell in not a photographer I know well. Peter Lik uses Canon at last report. In my business, we all use the same equipment and everyone knows who the good shooters are. Great photographs are conceived before the photographer even gets the camera out of the bag. Realy great ones are _planned_. Incidentally, people often cite the quality (read: "sharpness") of Zeiss lenses on Hasselblads as a reason to own one. I was a Bronica shooter for years and I'm damned if I could see a difference. These days I have a Mamiya RB67 for yucks. As far as the relative merits of gear are concerned, that's about all I have to say. It's just not a debate I have any more, especially when sooner or later, someone will start waving MTF charts at me and telling me how wrong I am and that I have no business in the industry! You mentioned "fine art" and Ted has put together some excellent videos on this which I strongly suggest you look at. I see a distinction between this and art. I see "fine art" as more of an internet thing which is very stylised and "art" as a movement which has gone on for as long as humans have used visual interpretation. The only difference between art with a brush and art photography is the process. Cameras and lenses are virtually irrelevant in art.

[@Kref3]

TheThirdMan Can't disagree with anything here. As I said, all I had to criticize was, that pros never used Leica within the last 30 or more years. That a Leica makes a better picture is a myth I don't buy myself. I assume, that there are some people, who prefer rangefinders for their kind of shooting and others prefer SLRs and this might for some be a valid point. If you feel more comfortable using a rangefinder than using a SLR, then you will make slightly better pictures with a Leica M6 then you would with e.g. a comparably small and comparably equipped SLR like the Olympus OM-1. That a Hasselblad delivers in no way better pictures than a Bronica I can second easily, as I own a SQ-Ai and a 501CM. I had the Bronica first and just found an offer for the Hasselblad that was just too good. Someone wanted to sell a kit for almost a 1000$ less ass the components were worth seperately and I thought: "If I don't like it, I'll split it and make a nice plus." The Hasselblad is a beautifull camera and I have not sold it, because I really enjoy using it, but I am in no way capable of finding any differences between a Hasselblad negative and a Bronica negative. It's clear, that a pro, who must justify all new purchases by some cost-benefit-calculation would not have bought a Hasselblad to replace a perfectly good working Bronica. I know a pro sports and action photographer, who still used a Canon 1D MkIII from 2007 untill a few months ago and a portrait photograph still using a Nikon D300 from around the same time and both say: 'Why upgrade, our customers do not see the difference anyhow.' I admit, that as a photographer I suck. I am just an amateur who loves doing it and I especially love the BW film process. I make silver prints in the darkroom of the few pictures I shoot that I like and I do not care for money in this hobby. I built myself a real permanent darkroom some months ago and I shoot any format from 35mm till 4x5 and enlarge them myself, so why should I use a Bronica, which gives great results, if a Hasselblad is just more fun to use, for in the end in my case it is all about fun. And to come back to the original topic of the video: A year ago I purchased a really well cared Rolleiflex 2.8GX as an alternative to the Hasselblad when I don't want to use a tripod. The Hasselblad is not so good when shot handheld due to the mirror slap, still I am struggeling with the Rollei. Maybe I will sell it. I will not loose any money, probably it will be worth more now than it was a year ago. If you shoot film for fun, it just does not matter, you can buy whatever you want, you will never loose money, you will only block it for some time. Not what a pro would do :)

[@ColinTonge]

I shoot on an AE-1, if I ever get a problem with it I'll probably replace it before I try to get it fixed, repairs are way too expensive, although when I got the camera for €70 even 'cheap' repairs seem expensive relatively!

[@theartofphotography]

***** great cameras thought! Love those old Canons.

[@ColinTonge]

They're just so comfortable to shoot with, I've used so many cameras but it's the one that I keep going back to!

[@theartofphotography]

Couldn't agree more!

[@jeremieplourde4339]

Kind of sad that it's the end but not ever thing last for ever, I do intend on keeping my #rolleiflex for quite a while. Just a fun camera to shoot on, just love how it slows me down. I have never had experience sending out a #camera for repair. But would like to find out a bit more about it, kind of want to get my #pentax67 back up and runing. Kind of been selling some of my un used cameras, and keeping the ones u use the most.

[@dominicknepper2082]

Oof, 300 for a CLA? Glad I shoot with a Kiev 88. Should anything go wrong I can chuck it and get a new (ish) body for $100.

[@toddavis8151]

Ted, Have you ever had a Yeshica TLR? Ive noticed that they seem to be the poor mans Rollei, but in the experience with the one which i own (Mat 124) they are still gorgeous to use

[@theartofphotography]

Tod Davis Tod I have not owned one. Seen some wonderful images taken with them though - they look beautiful!

[@winedemonium]

I was so happy with Leica's release of the M-A last year that I bought one. No meter is what distinguishes it from the MP. Of course, they won't sell many as it is an example of - as you so eloquently put it - Leica competing with its former self (and extensive used market). Leica survives because of its digital cameras. It's a profitable company, but always precariously sitting in a niche at the product cycle tail. Look at the spacing between Nikon's F, F2, F3, F4, F5... And compare that to today's product cycle - at, say, Sony. How long can the Hasselblads of the market survive?

[@BenWoodardCoyote]

I don't this this is actually the case where Leica is competing with itself. I believe that what they are actually doing is maintaining their brand's desirability and their pricing structure by propping up the price of the used market. For example consider the value of a normal commodity camera when the next generation comes out. The GH4 vs the GH3 for example. The value on the used market for the GH3 quickly drops. On the other hand when Leica releases the M240 and then makes the M9 the M-E, they are setting a value for the M9 on the used market. They are saying in effect, the previous model is still desirable and if you want a new version it will be about $1000 less than the newest model. Similarly, I think it is arguably true that the M-P helps maintain the value of the M7 and M6 and to a lesser extent the M-A helps define the market for the M4. (Few people want an M5 or a M8 though) Because the value of the old stock of cameras is remains high, they can justify the notion that this is investment grade camera and that helps maintain the brand and the margin on the camera or lens that you are buying.

[@Eric_Rossi]

It was a failed attempt before by a random company, but I really would like to see a real camera company make this digitally. I'd love it

[@theartofphotography]

***** Agreed Eric - its such a cool design. Would be amazing to see it updated.

[@Eric_Rossi]

The Art of Photography The technology is so there too ugh lol, I'd actually fork out some money once on a great camera. Doesn't need video. I just picture an actually successful Nikon DF vision.

[@theartofphotography]

***** I totally agree. You and I just need a way to buy that factory and get a sensor partner ;-)

[@Eric_Rossi]

The Art of Photography If I had the income I'd be on this in a heartbeat lol

[@theartofphotography]

***** Me too… When's that next lottery? Seriously - I wonder what it will go for. The factory is probably worth a lot because of the space. Parts might be a different story.

[@stevenxue1]

Kind of saw this coming but still sad to hear