This column usually focuses on 35mm cameras, but this week we have news of two medium-format cameras.
Fuji Photo Film U.S.A. Inc., recently introduced the world's first autofocus medium-format camera, the GA645 Professional Camera. The 645 in the camera's designation indicates the image size: 6x4.5 cm (centimeters), which is about three times the size of a 35mm frame.As with all medium-format cameras (which use 120 and 220 roll film), a larger original traditionally means a sharper enlargement and greater cropping options.
In addition to autofocusing, with the option to switch to manual focus, the new Fuji GA645 Professional Camera offers automatic exposure setting in the program and aperture modes, plus manual override.
The new Fuji camera also features auto film advance, auto exposure and a built-in flash (a high-power flash will be available soon), and a built-in 60mm lens, which covers the same image area as a 37mm lens on a 35mm camera.
Mamiya's new camera, the Mamiya 7, offers a slightly larger format, 6x7 cm, and a choice of lenses: 43mm super wide, 65mm wide angle, 80mm standard and 150mm telephoto. This range-finder camera offers both automatic and manual metering.
One of the most unique features of the Mamiya 7 is its panoramic capability. When the Mamiya 35mm panoramic adapter kit is dropped into the 120/220 film chamber, the Mamiya 7 is transformed into a true 35mm panoramic camera, producing a 24x65 mm image.
Mamiya offered an added incentive to invest in its newest camera. Those who purchased a Mamiya 7 before the end of the year received 20 rolls of Kodak Ektachrome Lumire 100 Professional Film, plus 300 points in Kodak's ProRewards Frequent Buyer Program. The ProRewards program allows you to earn points toward merchandise and ecology tours.
Fuji offers 120 and 220 film, too. Its Fujichrome Provia (the Pro indicates pro standards) is available in ISO 100, 400 and 1600.
The suggested list price of the Fuji GA645 Professional Camera, with built-in 60mm lens, is $1,819. The Mamiya 7 has a suggested list price of $2,265 for the body only. The list price of the Mamiya 80mm standard lens is $1,615.