The Mamiya M645 1000s Review: Is It REALLY The "Poor Man's Hasselblad?" YES!

My in-the-weeds review of the PHENOMENAL Mamiya M645 1000s! This Hasselblad-esque 6x4.5 Medium format film camera is a high quality, flexible system camera with GREAT available Glass (Lenses) that Truly gives you that elusive "Hassy" experience at just a FRACTION of the price!
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[@LauraWithACamera]

This is probably the best and most informative review I could find on here, thank you!

[@staffy109]

I agree 100%

[@jacovanlith5082]

As always is.

[@smitty112877]

Agreed! Great job!

[@LA3198]

Eric, thank you so much for such an informative video on the 645 1000s. Partially based on this video I recently bought one of these from a camera store in Japan. The camera is beautiful. It feels very well made. On my first roll of film I had five frames that has a band across the image from a small light leak. I researched and found a gentleman that makes a light seal kit for this camera. I ordered the kit and in a few days got a very precision cut light seal kit. I spent a couple hours following the directions that came with the kit, very carefully removing the old deteriorated form and cleaning all surfaces for the new seals. I got the new seals installed and everything looks good. I just shot my first roll of film yesterday after the new seals. I am anxious to see the results. Thank you again, keep up the good work on all of these wonderful film cameras.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks for sharing. Fingers crossed 🤞 that the new seals work out.

[@iamosheen]

I have one on the way from Japan can't wait to try it out. It's coming with an 80mm f2.8 but I'm considering getting a 45mm f2.8 also would be nice to have that wider option. Thanks a lot for the review I always find your videos super informative and helpful.

[@RogerMunoz-ci7it]

I would really love to say, Thank you... for this awesome inside and review of this incredable camera. I'm also, thankful for this channel. Also, thank you for the photos and taken time out for such wonderful videos.

[@RogerMunoz-ci7it]

Hi Eric; Eric I just saw your video again! When using my Mamiya 1000's, I forgot how to use the self-timer! I knew that I had seen somewhere how to use it. I could not remember where. So, I searched other videos and couldn't find it. Weeks later I find your video and presto! There it is how to use it. I guessed I just didn't pay enough close attention the first time. So, I decided to watch your video "Again." Sure enough sir, I missed a lot of more informative information, but this was my fault. So, Thank you again with all my heart. God Bless you sir. 🤗

[@Mike-mj9eq]

This is the best camera review/instructional video on youtube. Just snagged one of these cameras and this was way easier than reading the entire manual.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much. I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@jeremyharris8796]

Great review! My neighbor gave me a 1000s that was in a box in his attic. Used to belong to his Uncle, a pro photographer back in the day. I had it sitting on a shelf for months, and recently decided to get it working. So far so good!

[@chronicfish]

that's one heck of a neighbor. All that my neighbor has given me is a ...headache

[@jaisonlin2339]

This is the best camera review because you detailed every feature and quirk of this camera that is important for every owner to know, even if its 40 minutes I am glad I watched this video through.

[@louragusa834]

Great instructional review, I recently received an older and very well cared for m645 500th not the 1000 speed and no self-timer, however neither really come into play as of yet. I am really happy that I came across this video, I found it incredibly helpful, thank you, your new subscriber.

[@fcallophoto]

I'm actually planning on buying this camera next month and this video was completely useful, exactly what I wanted. Thank you sir.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

It's a very enjoyable camera that takes superb photos! I would make sure to ask about the focus ring on whichever lens you buy. The lens in this video had uneven focusing that would get real tight in places while turning the focus ring. My other two Mamiya lenses had no problem.

[@fcallophoto]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel Thanks for the advice!

[@qwikflame]

Best review/introduction of the 645 on KZbin. Thank you!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks!

[@MakersTeleMark]

The only thing you missed talking about is how you can lock the shutter button so it doesn't misfire. Other than that, 100% on it. And also, make sure you set the orange dot away when not in use or it can drain the battery from the prism finder. Happy shooting. I've taken some of my favorite photos with the 1000s. They even made leaf shutter lenses for it which allow high flash sync speeds.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Hmm looks like I missed that in editing. I mentioned the shutter lock after describing the self timer but it looks like I missed it in editing. Thanks for letting me know.

[@cacogal]

I have the Mamiya 645e, and just recived this one... I ' m really happy.

[@AdamJonesPhoto]

You covered EVERYTHING I wanted to know! I have just bought one so this was so helpful. Thank you so much.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

You’re very welcome. I’m glad you found it helpful.

[@woutdezeeuw1604]

Just ordered 2 of these bad boys. Looking up to replacing the light seals a little, but can't wait to play with this camera! Thank you for this wonderful review, really relaxing 40 minutes on my Sunday!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks for tuning in; I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@ana_lofi]

I noticed you were shooting in Old Town Alexandria, what a small world.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Yep. I went down there last week with my M6 but still haven’t developed the roll. There’s always something different to see.

[@emanueldavidson755]

This is one of the best-selling camera i ever had it makes me feel more professional.

[@robininspain29]

The best way of feeling more professional is producing professional results regardless of the camera used. What you're saying is like someone saying they feel more professional as a cook with a great oven rather than by the meals they can produce?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I don't remember making such a comment on this video. I spoke about the professional build quality and the larger film format maybe? Or how good the camera feels in the hand? I don't know, please provide me with the timestamp and I'm happy to respond. thanks.

[@nickademuss42]

Thanks for the vid, its one of the reasons I sold a few cameras to buy a 645. I got mine from the bay from a seller that I new didn't know much about it, so I expected it to need some work and was right. This 1000s did in fact have foam seals on the door, a big one near the hinge, I replaced it and the ones the edges. Also the foam that the mirror hits was in very bad shape leaving particles of foam with every shot. All that cleaned up the 80mm 1.9 was in good shape, just needed a good cleaning. The 45mm, that was a 4 hour ordeal of cleaning all the fungus and oil out of it. I have a 210mm lens now as well, but its oil and fungused as well. Also, you can convert a 220 insert to 120 really easily, just remove the little triangle shaped piece of plastic from one side and label it 120, the pressure plate is spring loaded so it applies the same pressure with or without backing paper. Thanks again!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Wow that's great information. I guess I should consider myself lucky to get one in great shape and free from light leaks. The lens in this video had a really sticky focus ring so returned it to the guy that I bought it from on eBay and replaced it with a 55mm f2.8 which is a 35mm equivalent of full frame. I am looking for the 80mm f1.9 because I've heard good things about it but haven't found the right deal yet. Thanks for checking in. I really appreciate it.

[@edinburghtumuran916]

That was a very very comprehensive review of the Mamiya 645! I have my analog photography vlog too! More power!

[@behindeachfilmgrain]

Have my hands on this Mamiya M645 1000S to test out for my self as I have never shot this camera ever! Even though I have the Mamiya 645 Super and Mamiya RB67 Pro S. I prefer what I have so far and maybe if after shooting a roll just to test for light leaks and functionality! Great in depth review! Thanks for sharing!

[@epicon6]

Best 645 review i've seen! You have a really clean example of the camera

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much. I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@LA3198]

Thanks Eric for another informative video. I really enjoy your videos and your relaxed way you present all the info. Makes me feel like I am sitting in your living room with you and you are showing my one of your cameras.

[@Flying4Film]

Having owned a Hasselblad 500cm and shot a lot with the Mamiya, I wouldn't call it a poor man's Hasselblad. Too many differences. It's a nice camera though. So much so that I just ordered one. The Kiev 88 is the poor man's Hasselblad. Thank you for making this video. This is by far one of the most informative camera videos I've seen. Very clear and to the point. Subscribing for sure.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much. I appreciate you saying that.

[@thearrogantasshole918]

Flying 4 Film what the kiev look like compared to hasselblad in your opinion

[@GeorgesMackoul]

This video convinced me to order this camera. Got a great deal too!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Post a link to your photos whenever they're ready. Thanks!

[@SRKSEP3]

Really could you guide me i am too like to get one

[@jdot1077]

Georges Mackoul me too

[@geoffpedder]

Your videos have a lot of wisdom, I'm learning a lot, thanks

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Good! I’m glad you found the video useful.

[@madgazo]

thanks for this, I just became a happy owner of Mamiya 645 1000s and your video answered basically all my questions!

[@madgazo]

quick question: is there any scenario when the multi switch gets blocked and doesn't allow switching to the "normal" mode. Somehow I cannot switch it and I'm not sure if I'm doing something wrong.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

When the shutter is cocked and the switch is set to multi, you shouldn’t force the switch back to the normal mode. If you didn’t intend to take a multi-exposure just put the lens cap on, release the shutter and then rotate the switch back to the normal setting. Hope this helps!

[@madgazo]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel yes all good now, thank you!

[@RogerMunoz-ci7it]

A late conradulations to you. I have only gotten my camera same name and model. I hope you have had wonderful photos and use out of this camera. Yes, I know you posted over 4 years ago. I just got mine. I just had to share the joy of the feeling and wanted to share it with you and Eric. God Bless you. Roger

[@The_Mister]

I think this camera is one of the best kept secrets in medium format photography. It’s so cheap, so reliable, so easy to use, and always produces a high number of keepers, especially with the 80mm f1.9.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I really like this camera a lot myself. I would love to have the 80mm f1.9 also but they are quite pricey and I don’t use it enough to justify the expense. Maybe one day when I have more time. Thanks for stopping by!

[@kidnickles101]

Not anymore 😭

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

??

[@kidnickles101]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel replying to OP comment , because they’re no longer considered cheap. The price from 2 years ago to now is completely higher

[@montycraig5659]

Great review! I agree, with you, I have a 645 Pro, and a Pro TL. I have never changed film mid roll. BUT... If you need to, you actually can with those two models.

[@leeo.alexander2324]

I have watched this video a number of times but did not make any comments. I was introduced to the M645 in 1978 while stationed in Germany. The local Exchange shopping center had one on display, full system, and I could not believe my eyes on the price. The tag on it said $360US. I kept my composure, left the store to talk to my wife. She gave her approval to spend the money so I bought it. I told the sales clerk that I thought that was not the correct price and the manager was called over to check. He said if that is what is displayed they had to sell it for that price since it was their fault on pricing. The body alone in Paris, where I took it with a photo buddy of mine, was selling for over $1400US at that time. I got rid of that camera back in 1982, and I regret it. Now I have two M645s and one 1000s. One of the M645 is fully operational and the other two cameras are about 90% functional. I am doing all of the repairs and so far I have done a pretty good job. I am waiting on getting an M645J to add to my collection. I have shot will other medium formats cameras since then, but the Mamiya M645 has been my preferred medium format. You really can't go wrong in starting out with this camera.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much for sharing your story about the M645 cameras. I agree it is a wonderful camera that has a quality feeling when in use with really good optics.

[@JamesRodkey]

Thanks for this video! As someone seriously considering getting a 645 1000S, I found it really helpful.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Your welcome and thanks for stopping by! I just picked up the 55mm f2.8 wide angle lens for the 645 1000s recently. It's a super-sharp with nice contrast as is the 45mm f2.8 in the video. One word of advice: I would check the lens focus ring to make sure it's smooth. I've owned 3 Mamiya lenses and two of them had stiff and uneven focus turn. I don't know if that's a wide spread problem or not.

[@dodongp2]

learned everthing about this camera from this video. KUDOS!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I’m glad I could be of service!

[@rogerwalker3201]

I think that’s a pejorative statement to say that the Mamiya 645 is a “poor man’s” alternative to obtaining a Hasselblad camera. As for myself, when everyone was saying film is dead, I bought the Mamiya 645 rather than the Hasselblad due to the Mamiya’s negative format (don’t like square negatives) and a place to store the magazine slid on the camera body. I think a lot of people are worried more about what the neighbor has, rather than approaching a subject and making an interesting photo with the camera at hand. I find nothing wrong with the quality of the images on the negatives as opposed to what can be presented by using a HASSELBLAD. If, you desire more defined information on the negative, maybe your option would be a Mamiya RB (RZ) 67; and with the option of making 6x9 negatives, as well.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Mamiya has excellent lenses that render pictures beautifully. That being said, the Zeiss lenses for the Hasselblad are legendary. They are better than the Mamiya but you probably have to line the pictures up next to each other with a magnifying glass to actually see the difference. I personally like the square pictures when shooting medium format. It somehow just seems right. The Mamiya has excellent components. I really like the micro prism viewfinder as well as the waist-level. Both great systems! Pejorative not intended, btw. We are, after all just talking about cameras. “Poor Man’s” is a common term that speaks to an item that costs a lot less but still gets the job done.

[@rogerwalker3201]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel Maybe pejorative was a little too strong of a word considering the subject. But, I have no problem with the camera’s quality of rendering beautiful pictures. I just don’t want people thinking that if the purchase of a Mamiya, will equate to buying an inferior camera, because they can’t afford to buy a Hasselblad. To me, it really depends on the choice of a square format or a rectangular format. It was nice communicating with you.

[@camerawrecker]

I always enjoy your videos. You have a terrific collection of cameras and your presentations are clear and informative. Thanks for all your efforts.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much. I’m glad you enjoy them.

[@Banshun]

New subscriber. Nice to see an intelligent, more laid back channel for a change. Keep up the great work.

[@desertmav8632]

Great vid👍🏼I was going back n forth between the RB67 & 645-1000s and the 645 is more portable for my purposes...

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Good choice! When it comes to medium format, the more portable, the better.

[@dianeswift]

Beautiful, thoughtful video that highlights the assets of this camera. Thank you!

[@blackcameraphoto]

Thanks for this review! I have one of these cameras and I really love it. Great photos in old town Alexandria

[@EposVox]

Thanks for the review!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

You’re welcome. I hope you found it useful!

[@msenquiz]

Thanks for this review. I just got mine from Japan and wasn't sure how to get the best use of it, even how to change and use the waist-level viewfinder and the Prism one, but thanks to your review I am now ready to go shooting. A very informative and detailed review. Keep up the good work.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much. I enjoy making the videos and using these film cameras. The photo quality from this Mamiya is superb. Enjoy!

[@shinichihayakawa7619]

Great review! 22:05 I think the A/M switch was for the original M645 which didn't have aperture stop-down lever. Also, assuming the M645 lenses stay fully open when they are removed from the camera (which I'm not sure), you needed to set the switch to M when you used uncoupled accessories like "Reverse Rings".

[@ferdamusonthebeatz7891]

Great video ! So much information! I appreciate it!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much. I’m glad you found it useful.

[@rpdee7344]

Own 2 of these bad boys. Have had mine since the early 80's, top shutter speed on mine are 1/500 of a second, with a 80mm f2.8 lens, also have a 2 x converter and a 210mm f4 lens. One has the metered top like yours in the video, other has just a penta- prism top so it can shoot like an over sized 135mm camera. Also have the Hand grip, on the left side the handle with shutter release for an off camera flash, very heavy when all put together. The negative size is 2 1/2 times the size of 35mm negative. Later models of the 645 were released with a exchangeable film back with a slide and auto exposer meter and motor drive. I like the 45mm lens you have on yours have to check E-bay see what they are going for. My 645 do not have a timer and the bottom shutter release has red dot to lock the shutter so you don't waste film by accidentally tripping the shutter. Thanks for posting the video.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Hi thanks for sharing. I had no idea that they made the 645 with the interchangeable back. I really prefer using the waste level finder but it’s nice to have the pentaprism in some instances.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Oh if you end up buying the 45mm make sure to ask the seller about the focus ring. I’ve had two Mamiya lenses with uneven focus throw. The 45mm in the video got really stiff as you focus it and then gets loose.

[@bandicoot5412]

Thank you, extremely informative, thanks again.

[@catey62]

Just one little thing about only being able to have one film to use at a time. if you look on eBay, you will find 120 film holders that come in their own little storage case that you can have pre loaded with a new film and you just take the finished film holder out camera and replace it with a fresh one, putting the finished film in the storage container for safe keeping till later. you can have as many of them as you want or need so you can keep shooting till you've used all your films up. I have one for my Mamiya M645j and its very handy to have, and they're not that expensive either if you take you time to look for a good one.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much for the info. I also have an extra 120 insert and a plastic box that came with it so you can have a second roll handy. I show it here 30:50

[@PaulGJohnsonphotography]

Brilliant video :) Thanks for taking the time to make it

[@TheMistermike87]

Hey Eric! Amazing review, thanks for this. I just got one off ebay last week. I'm having a problem with the mirror getting locked up when I'm using a shutter speed of 1/250. Every other speed works fine. I'm using a new battery and all contacts are clean as a whistle. The interesting part is the shutter curtain opens and closes just fine so the pictured isn't ruined, but the mirror just stays locked up. The only way to bring it back down is to advance the lever like normal. Also I want to note that when placing the shutter dial on the body to the red dot, the prism shutter dial doesn't work. The metering works fine but the shutter dial doesn't change any speeds. When i fire the camera using prism shutter dial, the mirror stays locked up like there is no battery and I have to press the red button to bring it back down. Have you had this problem before or any ideas on what's going on? Thanks for your time!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Hi Mike, I haven’t had this issue before but if I had to guess, it might be a weak battery? If that’s not it, I would return it since it probably would be too expensive to fix. Plenty of good ones out there. Good luck!🍀

[@TheMistermike87]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel Yah I've tried new batteries and cleaning the contacts. Others are telling me the same thing you're advice is so it looks like it's the right move to send it back and try again. Thanks for your response. Cheers man!

[@jamesmerecki3054]

...a very comprehensive review of the 645...and highly recommended...thanks for sharing...

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks for stopping by. Please share!

[@anarelyzamora]

I appreciate your information on this film camera, I learned a lot of information.

[@mushroom_noodles]

Thanks man! That video was really useful. Your shots are also great.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much for watching! I’m glad you found it useful.

[@SamSilk]

Awesome source of knowledge for a medium format noob like me.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Glad it was helpful!

[@talleyrand9442]

Nice! Just picked one up off of eBay. And I also have that 45mm/2.8 lens. Thanks for the review! You really did save me some time and headaches. I have one question though. When I wind to the next frame I feel (and hear) a bit of a hitch about half way through till the next frame. Is that normal? I guess it's working alright though either way. Just don't know who I would send it to to fix. Anyway, thanks again, subscribed. Oh, btw, I also have an M3. lol

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Hi thanks for the sub and your kind words. Yes it’s normal for the film advance lever to tighten up a bit during film advance but just a bit. If it feels like a malfunction, definitely film test it ASAP so you can return it if necessary. There’s plenty of good ones out there. Enjoy! P.S. check out my Leica M3 video review if you haven’t already. Thanks again.

[@talleyrand9442]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel Will do!

[@Raychristofer]

Good job on this i own this cam also. I plan to compare it to my Rollei in a future vid

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks Ray. I subbed to your channel. You do excellent work!

[@Irontalyn]

I loved your ultrafine extreme review. It is my main film right now. I love the results and in the United States I don't think you can beat the price. I just wish there was more development details from Ultrafine.

[@Raychristofer]

@@Irontalyn Hello thanks I appreciate it. I love it also and the 400 version reminds me of a mild tri x. Thanks for checking it out.

[@kevinthephotographer9346]

A very clear and comprehensive review - thanks

[@DeltaWave72]

There's a non-motorized left hand grip too, and it's awesome.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I actually discovered the non-motorized grip a short while after buying the electric on. It’s loud, takes way too many batteries and I don’t think it’s worth getting.

[@rudyvelez1741]

Fantastic review...very detailed info on the usage of the unit...& the one you have looks so immaculately clean..looking virgin...wondering where you bought it from?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I bought it on eBay. It’s in pretty good shape, yes.

[@maurolopesmarziano]

many thanks for review , this camera is so amazing , cheers

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

It really is! I plan on using it more this summer.

[@marroqi8947]

What if you’re too poor for the “poor man’s” yikes! I really want to get my hands on one of these but I can’t find one under 500. This camera is beautiful to me

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

It’s a beautiful camera to be sure. Like most popular film cameras, the prices have gone way up! I paid a lot less than $500.

[@norbertogerardo2576]

Thank you, I have this camera. Very informative, excellent video.

[@smallcnclathes]

Although the power winder is heavy, it balances up the camera. Mine is a J so no top release button. I find the camera really awkward on its own. Been looking at a lh grip as I won’t be shooting 220 as I used to do. But I think I will just try it out with the power winder first and see how it goes. It may seem silly for the occasional amateur photo but it certainly makes the camera a breeze to handle. Been wondering if I could use different batteries to reduce the weight. Something to produce the same voltage but with fewer batteries. Six AAs last forever as I recall, but they are not light.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I actually bought the winder after making the video. I'm not in love with it. It uses way to many batteries and is a pain to install. I think the ideal solution is the handle. The only benefit of the winder as I see it is the grip. I'd be happy with the grip for when I use the prism finder, but for the waist level finder, it actually gets in the way. I keep meaning to list my winder on ebay.

[@notewell3d199]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel It was never a pain to install as it never came off my camera! I used alkaline batteries and do not recall the drive eating batteries at an alarming rate. It was not like it needed a set for each wedding. I think it also sped up the film change process as the wind off, wind on was pretty quick from memory. This is handy when shooting a wedding. I also used a handle on the left but that was to hold a Metz 45 CT1

[@justintrueman7964]

Very helpful - thanks for the review, sir!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks, Glad you found it useful.

[@spongebobdriftpants]

when you crank past frame 15 and it starts to free spin, stop and flip the multi switch, cocking the shutter and you can take a 16th frame. and dont load the film all the way to ‘start’ just load the take up side enough to be sure it started (this camera tries to steal that 16th frame)

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

That’s great information. Thanks!

[@scottwillis1401]

Fantastic video. Well done and thank you!

[@Picador1963]

Thank you very much for this tutorial. It was very helpfull.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

You’re very welcome.

[@Callsign_Jaeger]

Definitely gonna get myself one of these now!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

It's a wonderful camera. I'm saving up for a wide angle for this one.

[@ascetue]

this is so helpful

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Good! Thanks

[@quocbaotran3845]

This video is so deep introduce camera. Thank you so much 👍

[@brandovisibelli]

Love this review, thanks a lot mate!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks!

[@nickfanzo]

I prefer the sl66 by rolleiflex for medium format, it’s 6x6 and has bellows for macro and tilt focusing.

[@mariobravo8253]

Great Video ... more videos please

[@joejohnson3145]

The video is incredibly helpful...well done

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks a lot Joe. Hope you subscribed!

[@Raychristofer]

What's up bro? But hey Who you calling poor? LOL. Hey man what you said about the lights around the edges of the film is the truth because especially lomography film its backing paper is very thick and waxy and it's automatically trying to unroll

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Hah, What's up Ray? IDK, Maybe I should've said the "Frugal man's Hasselblad?"

[@georgeleonard3082]

Great video!!!

[@Spunklyy]

Crazy that I stumbled across this video as I just purchased myself a Mamiya m645 1000s and to see that you shot this over at old town lol. Do you still own this camera?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

yep, I still have it. It’s and awesome camera. I hope you enjoy yours as much as I’ve enjoyed mine.

[@willarity6927]

Ya got me, on the buy list, thanks.

[@fatherchristmas2998]

it takes lovely photographs and if it goes wrong you can always use it has a letter box

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Hahah. Very good.

[@KombatFlix]

Dope video bruh, just won a bid on eBay for M645

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Hah! Thanks and congrats. It's a nice camera.

[@KombatFlix]

Film Photography Channel I have to say tho man, after watching your video, sorta concerned now about the M645 only being able to reach 1/500th shutter speed. Until I watched this I was unaware of that being one of the key differences between the M645 and the M645 1000s which you have. Do you find yourself shooting over 1/500th with the 1000s often? I like to shoot with the aperture open for as much bokeh as possible, 1/500th may not be best.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I have lot's of cameras that max out at 1/500 sec. If I want to shoot wide open in the daylight, i use a ND (Neutral Density) filter. They lower the light that hits the film effectively giving you the equivalent of 1/1000 or even 1/2000 sec shutter speed.

[@Irontalyn]

The 1/1000th shutter speed and 80mm f1.9 lens are pretty unique for medium format

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

That's one reason I really like this camera. I'll probably pick up the 80mm f1.9 after selling the 80mm f2.8. I've heard it's a great lens.

[@Irontalyn]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel The medium format camera I use is a Yashica D but this is on my list as an option down the road. They feel very solid and Mamiya makes awesome lenses.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

@@Irontalyn You won't be disappointed. It's really fun to use.

[@Irontalyn]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel if I get one of the 645 system cameras it's between the mamiya and the bronica.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

@@Irontalyn Hmmm, does the Bronica have 1/1000 shutter speed? It does have the swappable film backs and the Mamiya doesn't. Decisions, decisions....

[@azdave2721]

Hi, The best video on the tube. Can vertical shooting be done with this camera? Thanks again.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much!. Yes, vertical shooting can be done with either finder although it's very tricky (and not very practical) with the waist-level finder. Using the pentaprism finder is much easier to compose vertically and its very convenient to just use the main (lower) shutter release since it falls right in place with your index finger.

[@marekszeremeta8522]

You've helped me a lot, thanks!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I'm glad if I helped even a little. I love this camera. It's not always easy to take out due to the size but every time I use it I'm always very happy with the results!

[@marekszeremeta8522]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel Ive got my first medium format camera, and it is exactly this one. Now I'm waiting for it to come back from some check ups at service point, but after that it'll become my regular during falling in love with 120's and 6x4,5 :)) thanks to You I've just found myself in how to handle and deal with this one, once again thanks!!! :)))

[@stuartwalker121]

Superb review, great speaker.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks very much.

[@stuartwalker121]

I bought this camera with wlf after your superb review It’s an unbelievable little gem of a machine A hidden secret

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

It really is. I took mine out a couple of days ago for some landscape shots.

[@stuartwalker121]

For the money, you just can’t beat it With a simple 80mm lens, a waist level finder and a hand held meter That’s all you need to create great work I have s Pentax V spot meter (the analog one) and I also have a Sekonic L358 incident meter The prism is nice for viewing sometimes but I would never trust the readings WLF is way to go.

[@LennyCooke636]

Great review very thourough ! I wasn't sure about the 'A' auto and 'M' manual on the lens, but now I know. Could you tell us where you got the x-sync and hot-shoe covers ?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

They came with the camera but I’ve bought caps like these (for other cameras) on eBay before.

[@joshuahaynesworth2604]

Where did you get the eyecup (if that’s what it’s called) for the Prism Finder? I can’t seem to find one

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

The eyecup came with the finder when I bought it used. I would check Adorama or eBay for this type of stuff.

[@domgreco7]

Thank you for the video.

[@np-nl8ck]

Great review thankyou so much!!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much Neil

[@flowermaze___]

Great review! Am I right to assue the 645 and 645 1000s are much the same except for the one stop higher speed?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Yes the 1/1000 sec too shutter speed and a self timer are the differences between the two if memory serves. 😀

[@fatherchristmas2998]

very good review

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@SteveBalbonisHammer]

Great review. Where would you recommend learning to make prints and then digitize? Thanks’

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Black and white prints are relatively easy to make at home. You would need some trays and an enlarger. Color gets much more complicated and more costly. I haven’t made prints for quite a while. I develop my film at home and then scan on my Epson V850. There are several labs that will develop and make prints plus they’ll make you’re photos downloadable. Much cheaper to develop at home and you have much more control over the end result. As far as a resource for learning printing and scanning (digitizing), KZbin is by far the best. Hope this helps!

[@caddifilms]

This may be a dumb question but what are the purposes of having the two shutter knobs? Just got the camera and learning the ins and outs

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Sorry I didn’t see your question sooner! The two shutter release buttons are for eye level and waist level shooting. It would be more evident when you have the pentaprism installed. Everything falls in place with your hands.

[@Alptraumification]

the poor man's hasselblad is the kiev 88.

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I don’t disagree, lol

[@hoozentroger]

Hasselblad is rich mans Mamiya.

[@nightsbeatswitchgood]

how is shooting with the prism finder on this in portrait orientation without a grip? is it difficult?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

It’s not that hard. It helps that there’s two shutter release buttons which makes it easier to position your hands.

[@artie0001]

This is a great review

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Thanks so much.

[@Diminish12]

Does the AE finder have Aperture Priority mode. In the online manuals it says you turn on the AE finder then just set your aperture on the lens and it will pick the shutter speed. This prism doesn't do that as well?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Yep, I demonstrated the exposure mode in the video. I know this is a long video (too long) but that info is in there.

[@felixmooneeram5919]

Would you reccomend the 1000s or the Super? Do you know if either have depth of field preview? Thanks in advance for any help

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

My 1000s has a mode where the lens closes down as you turn the aperture dial. I’ve never owned a super so I couldn’t comment on that but I imagine it would have the same capability.

[@garrettbiel3580]

On the lens there is a switch for M and A. Do you know what that stands for?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

That’s the auto diaphragm lever. It stops the lens down as you turn the aperture ring when set to M. When set to A the aperture shuts down at time of shutter activation.

[@gkokra]

What lens would best fit environmental portraiture and or everyday use ?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I use the 80mm f2.8 for most things. It's a 50mm focal length equivalent on a 35mm camera. It's very sharp like most of the lenses for this camera and I find it very useful. I've also owned the 45mm f2.8 wide angle (same as 28mm) which I found more useful but it had a stiff focus ring so I returned it.

[@petals1000]

Great informational video. What would you say is the best lens on this camera that retains its sharpness when zoomed into the negs?

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

You can’t go wrong with the Zuiko 50mm f1.4. It’s super-sharp with great contrast and saturation. So many to choose from tho.

[@petals1000]

@@FilmPhotographyChannel thanks for the such fast response... i haven't even considered that one, since i had no clue they can take those lenses! Would i need an adapter? I will take a look at it!

[@riversky33]

Gee, I wonder how many cameras you have collected, seems endless!

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

Highest count was around 46. I’ve sold many of them since. 😀

[@TomPollardPhotography]

Interestingly, mine has foam in the back?

[@bladamirputin5999]

Why film review usually took about an hour?

[@Dilburtus]

My first medium format camera... ah memories. I use a Nikon full frame dSLR nowadays, but it’s nice to be able to add an adapter to the dSLR so I can continue to use the Mamiya lenses (albeit manual focus of course).

[@FilmPhotographyChannel]

I didn't know that was possible. Mamiya has great lenses so it's good that you can still use them.