The Zenza Bronica S2A - 6x6 Medium Format Perfection?

#bronica #6x6 #mediumformat #filmphotography #filmcamera #bronicas2a #1960s #italy #italytravel #postignano #squareformat
In the late 1950s, Zenzaburo Yoshino set out to build the perfect medium format camera. By the late 1960s that camera had evolved into the Bronica S2A - an eye-catching 6x6 shooter with excellent Nikkor glass. Come along with me to Postignano, Italy where we'll see just how great it is.
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[@bd048]

I owned S2As - with 6 lenses and 5 film backs. I was a wedding photographer from 1974-1994. I used this system from 1979-1994. I also used a Metz 60CT flash mounted on a Jones bracket. The who thing sat on a Majestic 4x5 tripod. It was heavy but the images with the Nikkors (that is all I ever used) was superb. The Metz really made the difference. It was called the F11 flash and that was true more often than not, so I used flash a lot. I stopped all that in 1994 but it was a wonderful system. I even had an S2. I had several finders but the waist level was my favorite. You brought back lots of memories, you also did a good job ta;lking about this camera.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks for watching! The S2A has quickly become one of my favorites. I think its design is nothing less than a work of art. I dabbled in wedding photography for a few years in the 90s. Never used a big Metz like that, but I did have one of those big Sunpak 622 units mounted on a bracket somehow. My what memories!

[@Seapatico]

Your content is way way better than I could have expected. Keep em coming!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks so much! Will do!

[@garoldcarlisle5637]

Thank you for your thorough reviews. Very much appreciated. I have a couple of S2As. Classic cameras. Beautiful.

[@vintagecameradigest]

IMO they’re about the most elegant 6x6s out there. Thanks for watching!

[@briandaviz-oq9st]

you're slowly becoming one of my favorite youtubers. thank you!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks so much! And thanks for watching! It’s a lot of fun!

[@jogrev]

Thank you for the information and the amazing photos you have shared. I fell in love with this camera. I would like to try it. I have an elephant: a Mamiya RB67 Pro S, an excellent camera but it is more heavy and bulky than the SA2, almost a kilogram! I live in Venezuela and is not easy to found this camera in this country. For now, we have a lot the restriction to buy in others counties.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Yes, the Mamiya RB is quite large compared to the S2a/S2, but it is a fine camera as you stated. Not easy to carry around. There are not many of these Bronicas for sale in the USA either. Most of the ones I see for sale are in Japan. I got mine from Japan, and I also got a Bronica C from Canada. Keep looking, and I hope you’ll be able to find one! Thanks for watching!

[@anthonyj_film_photo]

That was a great video. I really enjoyed that. Subscribed.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Glad you enjoyed it! And thanks for the sub!

[@GeorgeK356]

I have a Bronica S2A and a Bronica EC, tobether with 50mm f2.8, 50mm f3.5. 75mm f2.8, and 200mm f4 lenses, all Nikkors. I like the feature on the EC where you can store the dark slide in the back of the film back, really good idea. Both cameras shoot well but the S2A is my favourite. Keep film alive George

[@vintagecameradigest]

Someone else mentioned the ECs ability to store the dark slide. That sounds quite convenient. I’m always afraid I’m going to bend mine. I do have the little plastic holder for them, but I usually just hold it with my thumb or put it in my pocket. Thanks for tuning in!

[@FotodioxInc]

Nice video and some great photos too!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thank you! And thanks for watching!

[@RallyRallyRally]

I just want to say how much I really appreciate this channel and hope you keep going with it. Your knowledge of these cameras is amazing and the production value is astounding for a channel just starting out, thank you for educating people about these wonderful pieces of machinery!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Many thanks for the kind words. I really appreciate that. It IS a bit of a challenge to do a weekly episode, but hey, I’m up for a good challenge. Will do me some good 😁. Again, thanks so much! And thanks for tuning in!

[@markolwick2223]

Outstanding, thank you so much for taking the time to make this.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Glad you enjoyed it! And thanks for watching!

[@skipwilliamsnj]

Very nice content and discussion. Loved your little bit at the end about how to tell an S2 from an S2A. I went on Ebay and at least 60% (maybe 70%) of the cameras there identified as S2A, many with “late model”, had the plastic ears on the strap lugs and serial numbers way under 150k. Many under 100k. Not lying, but definitely bending reality

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks so much! But, yep, that’s my eBay experience as well. Luckily most sellers do include pics that show the serials.

[@tonym9635]

I noticed the same thing and I mentioned it to a few sellers and they actually changed their description to read S2

[@vintagecameradigest]

Good move! Nice to know some of them will listen.

[@TheSilverprint]

I have the all black version of the S2a. The last turn when cocking the shutter is unnerving and when it fires it can wake the dead. I love it. Truly an engineering marvel and beautiful. Keep doing what your doing, your channel is enjoyable, unassuming, and informative. Always great content and exceptional photography.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Many many thanks! Yes that last little turn of the winder seems so wrong. I’m always the one that says “if it’s not easy, don’t force it”. Well, I had to throw that out the window when I got this camera. But yes, a masterpiece of the time. Thanks for watching!

[@williamfriggle]

Back in the early 1990's I was going to photography school and getting cameras. I bought a S2A and I loved it. My main thought was to use it for portraits and some landscapes. However, I kept having issues with the flash sync. I took it to the shop several times. They would fix it and within the first roll of film, it would die again. Finally, they said that it needs a part that is not available. So since my main idea was portraits. I sold it. And I have kicked myself ever since. Seeing your video made me miss it all again. And since I don't do many portraits and I would use that camera for landscapes, it really makes me want one even if the sync doesn't work. Sadly I became disabled at 40 and my income is such that I can not afford to get one now. But it was fun thinking back to the time I had one and so enjoyed shooting it. Thanks for the video. Subscribed.

[@vintagecameradigest]

I’ve not actually used the flash-sync on either of my Bronica 6x6s. I keep meaning to get around to trying it for some portraits but haven’t found the time yet. Hope I won’t run into any issues with them. But man, I just love these cameras!

[@Franklin_Turner]

Holy smokes! Incredible! The pictures you posted were amazing. Great job my friend.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks! I really do appreciate it!

[@mmnn7963]

Great video, I really appreciate the work that went into it!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Glad you enjoyed it! It was a great trip! Cheers!

[@Caballeroshot]

Great camera, I have the S2A and after redoing all the foam seals my focusing is spot on! Thanks for the mention on the 90 degree prism being too dark, I was on the hunt for one but not anymore.

[@vintagecameradigest]

I do wonder if the 45 degree prism is any better. They’re just huge compared to the 90, though

[@311djr]

Anoth great video and presentation, Mr. Vintage. Very informative as always. Firstly, the location is amazing. I can see myself shooting many dozens of shots and never running out of ideas there. Secondly the camera is superb. I have the Bronica S2 which was 'alluded' to be an S2A when I bought it. But never mind, it's still a great camera. I have two film backs for both color and BW. I like having the alternatives available. I have the Nikkor 75mm f/2.8 and the Zenzanon 150mm f/3.5.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thank you thank you! There’s nothing wrong with an S2 of course…just that S2A might give me a bit more peace of mind. But I’m sure if I tried hard enough, I could jam the S2A quite well, lol. My C2 has the older gearing and it’s going strong. That 75mm is great, isn’t it!

[@RJMPictures]

What a dream location. Thanks for sharing

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks for tuning in! Yes, it was a stunning location. And it’s one of those situations where photos don’t do it justice.

[@mhc2b]

Enjoyed this video immensely, for multiple reasons. Never knew much about the Bronica, so I feel a bit more educated now! I've only known one photographer personally who shot Bronica, but his was the more modern 6x7 Gs-1 with a 100mm normal lens. He was my next-door neighbor, and shot the Grand Ol' Opry every weekend for the few years I knew him!! Your leading information in your videos is always informative and educational, but the "cherry" on top is always your walking around, actually using the equipment. Thanks again for explaining the what, why, and how as you're shooting.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks so much! The Bronica GS-1 was a camera I really wanted in my younger years. It seemed a bit more refined than the Pentax 67. But alas, I had neither - although I did eventually pick up a P67 many years later. The thing that really inspired me to get the Bronicas was they simply looked fantastic. And it also turned out they’re quite nice in use. I’ve been very happy with these. Now, shooting the Opry sounds like a fun gig…

[@mhc2b]

My neighbor, with the Gs-1, shot color negative film, and would come out to our back fence to share many of his prints with me. He had a back stage pass, and had pictures of just about every country music star there was. You could easily tell that the quality of his prints were stunning. I don't remember his name today, but he was also the Secretary of the Tennessee Chapter of PPA. The Bronica certainly is a "noticeable" camera. Back in film days I had the same experience with my 500CM & 501CM cameras. Not nearly as flashy as the Bronica, but quite recognizable to most photographers. Shooting in public places, it certainly was a conversation starter. There was always at least one photographer who would approach me, and lots of "stares" from others. One particular instance that lives in my mind - I was shooting in a national park out west, camera on tripod. Another photographer and his wife were setting up several feet away. I heard him turn to her and say "Honey look, that guy has a Hasselblad!!" Sadly, it doesn't work with the X1D/X2D cameras as they simply blend into what the average FF camera looks like. I would think your Kowa system would also generate a lot of interest when other photographers are nearby!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Yes the Kowa does generate a bit of interest. And it reminds me of a story similar to yours. I was out shooting with it a couple of years ago and this younger guy comes up and goes “So cool! Nice Hasselblad!” And I just nod my head and say thanks 😁. Anyway, maybe I’ll get an opportunity to test out a GS-1 someday.

[@veintequetzales2000]

Planning to get one from Japan and this video was so helpful, thanks! keep it up!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Glad it was helpful! Hope you enjoy it as much as I do mine.

[@johnsomers8269]

I really liked your B&W. I really liked my Bronica ETR, it was a fabulous work horse and the lenses were glorious. Back when I had the color darkroom set up I made some 20 x24's that were just perfect!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks! My faves are almost always b&w. Color is just too “literal” for me most of the time. I’ve heard from others that have owned an ETR that they really, really liked it. I’ll have to try one out at some point.

[@siroescribano4872]

amazing production quality and great content! Hope to see your channel keep growing.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Many, many thanks! Tune in tomorrow for a fresh episode!

[@siroescribano4872]

Can't wait!@@vintagecameradigest

[@joefaracevideos]

Thanks for the great content, as always. Got me interested in a Bronica S2A. I checked a few cameras on eBay and 8 out of 10 I looked at were not S2A's. So many thanks for those tips.

[@vintagecameradigest]

That percentage sounds about right, unfortunately. They do show up, though. So keep a watch on it. Glad I could spark some interest in these old beauties!

[@Hissatsu5]

I just ordered a s2a from eBay . I wasn’t able to afford a Hasselblad so I looked at a Kiev88 but after seeing a compresión between the s2a and the 88 I decided to pull the trigger on the s2a ! I been shooting a bit on a holga and a Kodak Hawkeye ,they were fun but I wanted to up my film photography game and within a month I bought an Nikon fm2 , minox b , minox 35PL and Kiev 35a and I am waiting on the s2a as of right now .i am super excited I have an affinity for vintage / iconic gear Thanks for the video I am felling more confident in my choice in medium format camera !

[@vintagecameradigest]

I think you’ll be delighted with the Bronica. It will be no comparison with the Holga, I suspect. I have never held a Kiev 88 in my hands, so I can’t specifically vouch for how it would compare to the S2a. But I did own a Kiev 6 once - sort of the same design as a Pentax 67. It was an ok camera, but it just seemed a bit unrefined in feel and operation. So if the 88 is comparable to the 6, I’d say you made the right choice with the Bronica. I do know there are many people who like the Kiev cameras. They have sort of a cult following. I just didn’t fall in love with mine at all. Thanks for watching!

[@savinggracechurch4112]

I had one of these and wish I could get another. This time with the tilt/shift bellows. Mine had a Zenzanon 100mm f2.4 I had a wonderful photo taken with it for a book cover. Plus advertising that consistented of promotional posters. I used Fuji Astia 100

[@vintagecameradigest]

Nice! I’ve also looked at the bellows attachment, but haven’t followed through. It does add a bit of extra size to the unit, but I don’t think that’d be a deal breaker at all.

[@finn4240]

Such a lovley calming video Thanks a lot

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thank you! And thanks for watching!

[@thatfellarosto]

I recently got one of these incredible cameras for an amazing price! got it for $177. Also mine weirdly has the "butterfly" style plastic strap lugs which means mine is probably a very early model thing is an absolute joy to shoot with

[@vintagecameradigest]

What an excellent price! I do love these cameras and overall look/vibe they exhibit. An erstwhile design mindset before everything just became black boxes.

[@thatfellarosto]

@@vintagecameradigest The lenses are insanely sharp too, its fascinating to use Nikon glass on medium format. Its a shame they didn't produce more.

[@hoodedone3420]

I did choose the EC over the S2A. Love the camera, and the Nikkor lenses, and prefer it over the 500c/m. Only if it wasn't so heavy. Great video on this great system.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks! What sold you on the EC over the S2A? Just curious since I’ve never tried an EC and wondering if I should.

[@hoodedone3420]

@@vintagecameradigest Mostly the stories that the EC was technical better then the S2A. And in that period, the EC was cheaper then the S2A because of it needing a battery. And I also like that the backs for the EC (not the same as the ones for the S2A) give you a place to store the darkslide.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Interesting that the newer tech cost less, but I’ve heard stranger things for sure. Now having a spot to keep the darkslide on the back itself is genius.

[@russellyoung2852]

Another sterling camera review. I had no idea of the Bronica's history and that was truly fascinating. You certainly moved the beauty of the location up a few notches! I owned an S2A body, 50 Nikkor, 75 Zenzanon and 150 Komura lenses, which came to me as a kit, c. 1976. It replaced a 'Blad because the two lenses most used, the 50 & 75, were sharper wide open and at f/4 than the Blad's (heresy!). Night photography was my forte back then and fast/sharp was critical. However, it had a major flaw which eventually caused me to sell it. When using a cable release, if pressed in too slowly, some sort of internal cams moved out of sequence and the camera was locked up tight and an expen$ive trip to the repairman ensued. After the fifth occurence, it was replaced. Awaiting your next camera review! Would you consider a head-to-head match up, something like Pentax67 x S2A x Mamiya RZX67 x Blad?

[@vintagecameradigest]

“After the fifth occurrence “…good grief! You had more patience with it than I would have. But thanks for the tip. I’ll make sure that any cable releases don’t find their way into the Bronica bag. So was the cable release secured to the regular shutter release? Or that extra one underneath near the stop down button? I’d be down for a head to head matchup. I’ve at least got the S2A and the P67. That would be a good start. Adding it to the list!

[@russellyoung2852]

I loved that camera 50 & 75 lenses, sigh, and found it hard to part with despite the locking up issue. Its been nearly 50 years but I *think* the cable release was in the normal shutter release. Cannot recall why I didn't try the alternative... brng on the head-to-head! Hulk Hogan vs _______ !!! @@vintagecameradigest

[@vintagecameradigest]

I’ll be working on it!

[@pony21090]

Got my S2a last year ad love it. I was surprised, that they have the east German Carl Zeiss Jena Biometar from the Pentacon Six. I hope to get one, but there are very expensive.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Yes they are. I always have one in my eBay watch list just to keep track of what they’re going for. Would love to try one out sometime. Until then, the Nikkor 75 will suffice nicely.

[@JasperBunschoten]

Until recently I owned a Bronica C2. I wanted to sent it in for a service. But the parts had run dry, so I sold it... It was a great camera.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Sorry that you had to part with it. But yes, parts availability is the main issue with all of these fine machines. I sometimes wonder if having another donor body lying around would be worth it. But then that sounds like crazy talk. Especially since you could get a "modern" SQ-A instead.

[@JasperBunschoten]

This video has made me buy an S2A...😅 I missed the C2 I guess

[@vintagecameradigest]

Awesome! You’ll feel right at home with it. The interchangeable film backs are so convenient.

[@alanlawson1969]

Nice video, i'll. be checking out your channel more often. Apparently my version is a bit of an albatross. It has a serial no. of 105xxx and wings on the strap lug, suggesting it is an S2, but it has the black wind handle like the S2A. I would assume the serial no. trumps all, but not sure. It was advertised as an S2A. Either way it was in like new condition, and I love shooting with it!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks for tuning in! I’m sure there are some copies out there that fall somewhere in the middle of all that which are hard to nail down. The important thing is that it’s in great shape and is a joy to use!

[@martor2845]

Hello, I love to watch Your episodes. Could You do a episode abolutnie Brodnica ETRS. Thank You.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks for watching! I don’t currently have an ETRS in my possession, BUT it’s certainly one I’d love to try. A friend of mine has one, so I may be able to borrow it. If not, I’ll keep an eye out for a good deal. Thanks so much for the suggestion! Cheers!

[@martor2845]

thanks very much :)@@vintagecameradigest

[@duanemiyagishima2381]

Interesting and clear. I've been seeking film directed videos because I've grown weary of the "run-n-gun" shooting that's become prevalent with digital cameras. I recently dusted off my Mamiya 645 1000s and I'm relearning. Your videos as well as those of another photographer wetted my appetite for a 6x6 camera. Result I have what I believe is an S2A on its way.

[@vintagecameradigest]

That’s awesome. Whatever you end up with - be it an S2, S2A - I think you’ll enjoy it. It’ll definitely slow things down in a good way. And the 6x6 format opens up a whole new world of composition. Keep me posted on how it goes!

[@CollectedLight1]

You are producing some great and very information videos. Thanks. It has been some time since I shot film, and even longer since I travelled with it. I’m back at it with an SQ-Ai. What precautions do you take when flying with your precious film stocks in tow? Thanks for any tips.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks so much for the kind words! You’ll have to let me know how you get on with the SQ. I’ve been eyeing that series for a while, as I’m really enjoying 6x6 shooting. About the film and traveling - when I departed Atlanta for Italy back in the summer, the NTSA had no issue or complaint doing a hand check on the film. I had 15 rolls of 120, and I went ahead and took them out of the wrapper and put them in a clear ziploc for them. They swabbed each roll. However, leaving Rome I didn’t get the opportunity to ask for a hand check before I had to go through. So everything went through the machine. And luckily it had no effect on the film. Now, it was all 160-speed or less, but still. I was happy.

[@aiofilms]

Your are brave and lucky, Mr. Broome. I wouldn't take this series of Bronica cameras to a far place for any critical job for the reliability concern.

[@vintagecameradigest]

To be fair, that could be said for most of the cameras I own - especially the medium format models. But I can’t help but love the design and function of these early Bronicas. So far, I’m a lucky guy :-)

[@aiofilms]

@@vintagecameradigest When I was working in a used camera store almost 50 years ago as a teenager, customers complained about the bulk, noice and vibration the S2 series made, compared to the Hasselblads. I jammed an S2A in the shop myself that upset my boss a bit. That’s where I got my impression about this camera. When I could afford my own medium format cameras in the 1990s and after, I have owned no less than 6 or 7 modals of Mamiya, Hasselblad, Pentax and a set of Bronica 6X7. They were all trouble free and those remain in my possession today are still working fine. Also, over the years, I heard many good things about the Bronica ETR and SQ series from actual owners/users, but never heard praise for the S2 series from my personal acquaintances.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Interesting. I also own a Kowa Six that I shoot with semi-regularly these days. These also have a rather dubious record for reliability. I’ve owned that camera since 1990 and the only repairs I’ve had done were shutter CLAs on some of the lenses. I think most of the issues with these particular cameras (as well as the S2) come from film-winding issues and soft gears. So, as long as I’m careful and not too over-zealous with winding, I feel like I’m postponing the issue. The S2A internals were modified a bit from the S2 to combat this particular issue. Of course this doesn’t mean that you won’t experience issues. But it does improve the odds. I owned a Hassy 500/C for many years, and it felt perfectly engineered. A true work of art. I do regret selling that camera.

[@aiofilms]

Did you remove my lengthy feedback? I don’t see it here anymore.

[@vintagecameradigest]

@@aiofilms I did not. But I don’t see it here in my comment feed, either. I don’t edit or censor the comment sections, so I’m not sure what has happened.

[@nanddis]

Yes, a great camera, my best shoots are made with it. I only have some problems with the Nikkor 105mm 3.5. Leaf shutter, it do not sincronice well with the focal plane shutter, even if I shot in Bulb for more than 1 second. Thank you for your videos!

[@vintagecameradigest]

I have been on the fence about picking that lens up. Thanks for the tip. I shall remain on the fence for now. Is it possible to use it without employing the leaf shutter? I have a LS lens for my Pentax 67 that I usually just use as a normal lens. Just wondering if they might work the same.

[@jeremymudd8507]

Another nice video! My all-black late S2a is one of my favorite cameras to shoot. FYI - 220 film is available new from Shanghai Film. They make their GP3 100 speed b&w in 220. It's not bad. I also have a big stockpile of other 220 rolls in my fridge. There's something nice about having 24 shots on a roll sometimes.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Indeed there is! I couldn’t have done without 220 back when I was doing weddings with the Kowa Six. However, I’m definitely going to look for this film. Would be really nice . Thanks for the tip!

[@Daxter5500]

You guys are forgetting CineStill announced that 400D would be available in 220 also

[@jeremymudd8507]

@Daxter5500 nope. I pledged to back the 220 and it didn't happen. They gave up and shipped 120. So no. I'm not forgetting.

[@jeremymudd8507]

But, there is a "new" 220 color film available now. Reflx Lab is respooling Kodak AeroColor 100 in 220 format now. I bought 10 rolls.

[@SchwarzPoet]

Very good video and also very understandable. Have you already tried the "Pentacon Six TL" ? With the camera you have to adjust to one or the other peculiarity, but when you have adjusted to it, the Pentacon is a very ingenious and reliable medium format camera.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks for watching! No, I haven’t tried the Pentacon yet, but it’s on my list of cameras to check out. Prices seem to be reasonable. And the reputation of the lenses is quite good.

[@HarveyWallbanger-ho2cq]

You guys can use the Hasselblad, I'll use this one

[@vintagecameradigest]

I owned a 500C at one time. Certainly a nice camera. Smaller and lighter than the S2, I think. But I can’t much complain about this one.

[@Robin_Zerbib]

Great content, wonderful place! Coming back from Rome and Florence, I chose to go digital due to all the talk about CT scanners ruining all films now. How did you manage? Seeing your work I begin to second guess my decision!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Glad you mentioned this! I flew out of Atlanta, and they happily did a hand check on all my rolls of film - didn’t have to be persuaded. Flying out of Rome, however, I didn’t get the opportunity to ask, so the film went straight through the machine. Not sure if they had the CT type, but my film seemed to be fine. All of it was ISO 160 or less.

[@Robin_Zerbib]

Thanks a lot for this answer, I'll probably take a hybrid setup on my next flight!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Good choice. I certainly had my digital as well. Wanted to make sure I had my bases covered.

[@carlhale5405]

Subscribed.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thank so much!

[@carlhale5405]

Howdy. I have two ETRSi bodies each with a lens. Would those lens work with the Bronica 6x6 version? Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Unfortunately not. The lenses for the slightly smaller 645 format will have different mounting dimensions and camera connections as well as slightly different focal lengths than the 6x6 systems. Thanks for watching!

[@piotrcelewicz9108]

shooting with this camera was a pleasure, but where can you repair such things in Europe?

[@vintagecameradigest]

Excellent question. I’m not even sure where I’d have it repaired in the US. I imagine that spare parts for cameras this age are practically non-existent unless salvaged from donor bodies that repair shops might have laying around. Luckily, one issue that these cameras can develop is user-repairable. The original foam surrounding the focusing screen and underneath the mirror deteriorates and can cause focusing issues. It’s an easy fix using foam that is sometimes used for replacing the light seals. Did that on both the C2 and the S2A - just as preventative maintenance.

[@hoodedone3420]

You could ask ACR (Amsterdam Camera Repairs). He does repairs on all kinds of cameras.

[@nanddis]

@@vintagecameradigestI did it too.

[@richardazar22]

Hi, just found your channel. Have you had any issues with camera shake with long exposures on a tri pod with the S2A?

[@vintagecameradigest]

I haven’t experienced any shake. I don’t remember what the slowest speed I used on this trip was, but maybe 1/4 for one of the shots. I expected to have some shake but was pleasantly surprised. Thanks for watching!

[@sebvz89]

i love the s2a. i have the know problem with the focusing screen

[@vintagecameradigest]

Have you been able to fix it? I did both my C2 and S2A with some leftover light seal foam. The original stuff was a mess.

[@sebvz89]

Yes! I was able to fix it! Sorry for my english

[@vintagecameradigest]

No problems at all! Glad you got it fixed!

[@mnoliberal7335]

The camera I always wished I had. Maybe I'll trade in my Pentax 67

[@vintagecameradigest]

Hmmmm….. now that would be a dilemma for sure. I could easily make the argument that you need both, since the format is different! But the Bronica is much prettier to look at, no doubt!

[@anggaros1]

Very beautiful camera but the mechanical design of the sliding mirror is so complicated and prone to misalignment. Nobody can repair it anymore.

[@vintagecameradigest]

It is a unique design, for sure. And like you said, could be problematic. Sometimes the alignment issue is the deteriorating foam underneath it. It would always be a good idea to replace that (and the foam under the focusing screen) if there is a focus issue. Easy fix that might solve the problem. But yes, if that mirror mechanism goes wonky, could be a nightmare.

[@crissignori7482]

What about the SQA ? I had one of those with a whole bunch of lenses which worked very well but not quite at the same level as the Hasselblad so I swapped for a 500cm.

[@vintagecameradigest]

I'd love to do a test/review of the SQ-A series. Just need to get my hands on one. For years I had a Hasselblad 500C and it was fantastic. A little over a decade ago I sold it because I thought my film days were over. I get very aggravated with myself now because of that. Now, it would cost me nearly 3 times as much just to get one like it again. But in a nutshell: you're not going to go wrong with any camera named Hasselblad.

[@crissignori7482]

@@vintagecameradigest That’s what happened to me with my Leica M6 and M4. Everyone was saying film is gone and never to come back and we saw what happened to Kodak. This year I got back into the Leica M system with a 1965 M3 and a couple of lenses. Thankfully I kept my Hasselblad system with the exception of one lens. My next move will be with the Leica SL system. I’m waiting to see what their offerings will be next year before deciding which way to go. Try a Bronica SQA and I’m sure you’ll be pleased. They’re probably quite cheap now. Thanks for your wonderful and very informative videos. Best regards to you.

[@vintagecameradigest]

That Leica sounds nice. I have never had one in my hand. Which might be a good thing, because I know then that I'd require one, lol. Thanks for the kind words. Be sure to tune back in when you can!

[@czarnobyl86]

Do you have any experience with tilt lenses for this system?

[@vintagecameradigest]

I’m not aware of any PC lenses made for this model (S, S2, C, EC). However, they did make a tilt/shift bellows attachment. But I’ve not used one of these. From what I read, it was more useful as a macro tool than for the movements. Now, saying “I’m not aware of” any PC lenses doesn’t mean I know for certain. I’ve just never seen one for sale or read about one in any literature. But if there is one out there, I’d love to find out.

[@czarnobyl86]

@@vintagecameradigest I searched quickly for the bellows and indeed, they made one for the S2 line. It's extremely rare and apparently hard to find. Thanks for the hint!

[@vintagecameradigest]

You’re welcome! If you end up picking one of these up, I’d love to hear how it goes. Cheers!

[@jeffst.ongephotography1239]

I have a S2. I've had for a couple years and shot about 12 rolls through it. Now the shutter is jammed up. Not sure if I should buy another one or not. I do like the camera. Thanks for the video.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thankfully I've not had issues with mine. But that's going to be more of a "when" than an "if", I suspect. A 50-yr-old camera is bound to have issues at some point. There's a mom-and-pop repair shop near Atlanta that I use for repairs. They've been around for quite a number of years and certainly have the skill necessary. But parts will be the main issue. If mine became inop, I'd probably get another one. But that may be less of a practical choice and have more to do with the fact that I'm enamored by the design. I can't help it. I like pretty things, lol.

[@jasongold6751]

Total garbage for any Bronica made before Nikon walked in and took over! Their lenses were with the garbage.. Shredder or jammed.

[@Mingster72]

@@jasongold6751 Nikon never walked in and took over anything at Bronica, they just had a deal to produce lenses for them.

[@guenin]

Thanks for this video. Do you have any recommendations on where I can have my S2A serviced?

[@vintagecameradigest]

I’m sorry to say that I do not. Is the issue with your camera needing a specific repair? Or just a routine clean, lubricate, and adjustment? Luckily, my S-bodies have been fine…so far.

[@guenin]

@@vintagecameradigest I have 2 S2A bodies with their shutters stuck open.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Yikes. I wish I knew of a place to recommend specifically for these. If anyone knows, hopefully they’ll leave a comment.

[@---us7qf]

Muahahahahaha! That cat, just sitting there, as if it owns the place. Talk about presence. Hahahahaha hahahahahahahaha!

[@vintagecameradigest]

I think they did own the place, lol. One of the cats had only 3 legs, but we saw him attack and immobilize a garden snake. He was a force to be reckoned with.

[@vasyapupken]

1:34 - nope. "if yow wander how good" is not about those ancient garbage you talking about. those Nikkors suck (in fact. many Nikkors suck). if yo want to see a good medium format Nikkor lens then Plaubel Makina 67 is the way to go. and all large format Nikkors are good too. 24:50 - seriously. that's an image quality expected from third party 50/1.8 in mid 70's those lenses for Bronica S must be engineered in a big hurry.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Thanks for watching, and thanks for the comment. I think we do have a slight difference of opinion, but that’s ok. Cheers!

[@jasongold6751]

Only buy a bronica that was made under Nikon! Late 60's. The rest are shredders. True. Garbage!

[@vintagecameradigest]

Bad experiences I’m guessing? Would love to hear your story.

[@Mingster72]

Nikon never produced Bronica cameras. Bronica had an arrangement with Nikon to produce lenses for their cameras, that is all. Their relationship soured in the 70s and Bronica got other optical companies to produce their lenses instead.

[@vintagecameradigest]

Correct!