My New Love
Written: Jul 07 '04
|
Product Rating:
|
|
| Ease of Use: |
 |
|
| Durability: |
|
|
| Battery Life: |
|
|
| Photo Quality: |
|
|
|
Pros: Titanium beauty, razor sharp lens, awesome results
Cons: Can't use lens cap with hood, flimsy case
The Bottom Line: This is the easy way to get into medium format quality photography.
|
|
|
| robtom's Full Review: FUJIFILM GA645Zi Rangefinder Camera |
I have been taking photographs since I was 12 - now 45. Until I was 21 all my cameras were cheap or borrowed. Then I got the chance to buy a Canon F1 body second hand in mint condition. The sales guy told me it would last at least 30 years - and it has! Recently took it to Canada in winter where it withstood -35c each day and delivered perfect results.I also get great prices on FD lenses now.
Anyway, I digress. I have always loved the idea of medium format but did not want another bulky camera system to carry. I bought a second hand Mamiya 330f a few years ago but apart from some photos for an annual report it has pretty much stayed in the cupboard.
Two months ago I was in a dealers and I saw a GA 645zi. I was immediately taken with the titanium body and its chunky appearance. I bought it and started on the free films I got with it. First up, I tried Fuji Across B&W. I never read the instruction manual and was rewarded with 16 of the most dreadful shots I have ever taken!
I sat down with an empty camera and the manual for a night and figured it out. Next up was Superia 100, with all exposures checked against a digital Sekonic. Outstanding - in fact one shot I allowed the camera to correct a meter reading and it was even better than the hand held meter suggested.
For the ultimate pictures, try Fuji Velvia on a tripod. So sharp and clear, its as if you were standing in the scene.
Had another try with Fuji Across a few weeks ago on the Isle of Skye Scotland - the first time was definitely my fault - this stuff rocks.
Has the Canon been sold off? No way but it gets left in the car more often now. I use it for telephoto and extreme wide angle shots. Also use it instead of a digital - who needs any of that junk with cameras like these?
Have just used the GA 645zi to take 16 photos of my friends with their week old baby and they are delighted with the results.
If you can find one, you will not regret buying it. Just read the manual first!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 1200
This Camera is a Good Choice if You Want Something... Solid Enough for a Professional
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
robtom
|
|
Reviews written: 1
Trusted by: 0 members
|
|
|
- Add to My Yahoo!: 
- Add to Google Homepage: 
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.