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Making Portraits of the Stars we Love

Category: cameras

  • Why the Mamiya RB67 Is a Glorious, Heavy Beast You’ll Fall in Love With

    If you’ve ever fantasized about holding a camera that feels more like a vintage typewriter crossed with a brick, then allow me to introduce you to the Mamiya RB67—aka the camera that breaks your back but steals your heart.

    Mamiya RB67 medium format camera with macro lens and waist level finder.

    Born in the 1970s and built like a Soviet tank, the RB67 is a medium format monster that has somehow survived the digital apocalypse and come out the other side with a cult following of film nerds, hipster purists, and people who just really like the sound of a leaf shutter.

    So what makes this camera so special (aside from being a great arm workout)? Let’s dive into the quirks, features, and undeniable charm of the Mamiya RB67—the analog camera that refuses to die.

    1. Modular AF

    And no, not auto focus. The RB67 is as manual as it gets. But in terms of design, this camera is basically LEGO for grown-up photographers.

    Mamiya RB 67 film back diagram and insert how to load.
    • Film backs? Swap them mid-roll like a pro. Color film for daylight, black and white for drama—you decide.
    • Viewfinders? Waist-level, prism, metered—you’ve got options. Lots of them.
    • Lenses? Oh, honey. Mamiya Sekor lenses are sharp enough to shave with.
    Mamiya RB 67 prism types diagram and photos.

    Even the film orientation can be changed without turning the camera. How? The back rotates. That’s right. The “RB” stands for Rotating Back, which means you can shoot portrait or landscape without moving your tripod, your subject, or your entire body. Genius? Absolutely. Lazy? Also yes.

    Mamiya RB67 outfitted with macro lens and finder prism for easier close up focus.

    2. True 6×7 Format: Go Big or Go Home

    They say size doesn’t matter. But when it comes to film negatives, it totally does.

    Shooting 6×7 gives you a massive negative—almost five times the size of 35mm. The result? Insane detail, creamy bokeh, and images so rich and textured they could probably pay your rent.

    Plus, it’s often called the “ideal format” because it balances quality with practicality. You get 10 shots per roll, which is just enough to be intentional without making you cry every time you burn a frame.

    3. No Batteries, No Problem

    One of the most glorious things about the RB67 is that it doesn’t care about batteries, electricity, or the modern world at all. It’s fully mechanical.

    Your iPhone dies after 6 hours? This camera will keep shooting through a zombie apocalypse. The only thing electric here is your personality when you’re using it.

    Unless you attach a metered prism (which needs a battery), everything runs on gears, springs, and pure willpower. That means fewer things to break, and more time for you to look cool winding film like it’s 1975.

    4. Built-In Bellows: Hello, Macro Magic

    Instead of focusing by twisting the lens like a peasant, the RB67 moves the whole lens forward and backward using a bellows system—just like the old large format cameras.

    This means:

    • Super precise focusing, especially for close-up shots.
    • Built-in macro capability without special lenses.
    • The joy of watching your lens accordion out like it’s about to recite poetry.

    It’s delightfully over-engineered, and once you use it, you’ll wonder why every camera doesn’t do this.

    5. Lenses That Slap (In a Very Polite, Japanese Way)

    Mamiya’s Sekor lenses are criminally underrated. They’re:

    • Razor sharp (but with soul)
    • Beautifully color-balanced
    • Built like tiny metal tanks

    Popular choices include the 90mm f/3.8 (your go-to standard), the 127mm f/3.8 (for flattering portraits), and the 50mm f/4.5, which is wide enough to make your tiny apartment look like a penthouse suite.

    Sample portrait of woman with brunette hair by window light available light portrait with makeup on RB-67 portra film.

    And because the shutter is in the lens (leaf shutter style), you can sync flash at all shutter speeds, which is a big deal for studio photographers and anyone who enjoys the look of perfectly lit eyeballs. (below portraits shot on Kodak Portra 400 by the awesome Jimmy Edwards).

    blonde woman in studio with studio light portrait shot with RB-67 camera on Kodak Portra 400 film.
    blonde woman in studio with studio light portrait shot with RB-67 camera on Kodak Portra 400 film.

    6. Waist-Level Finder: Look Down, Look Cool

    waist level finder looking in RB 67 medium format camera with portrait in view.

    There’s something undeniably cinematic about composing a shot through the waist-level finder. You’re not just snapping a photo—you’re staring into a luminous portal that shows you the world reversed and square.

    • People don’t notice you shooting? Great for candids.
    • Makes you feel like an old-timey war correspondent? Yes, please.
    • Bonus: you get to look deeply introspective while photographing trash cans and alleyways.

    You’ll start composing more thoughtfully, partly because it’s beautiful and partly because bending over this 6-pound brick makes you feel like a Victorian ghost photographer.

    7. Weight: Not a Bug, It’s a Feature

    Let’s be honest. The RB67 is heavy. With a lens and film back, it’s around 2.5 kg (5.5 lbs). Add a tripod, and congratulations—you now qualify for a light cardio workout.

    But that weight comes with benefits:

    • Stability (handheld shots at low speeds? Yes.)
    • Durability (drop it and you’ll break the floor, not the camera)
    • Presence (people will either respect you or ask if you’re filming a movie)

    So yeah, it’s not exactly a pocket camera. Unless you wear cargo pants and have very strong legs.

    8. Price: A Pro Camera Without the Pro Price Tag

    Once upon a time, the RB67 was a serious investment. Studio pros used them to shoot fashion campaigns and portraits that ended up on magazine covers.

    Now? You can get a full working kit for less than the price of a new mirrorless lens. It’s one of the best values in medium format film photography—big results for not-so-big bucks. Looking for a place to buy? I recommend KEH.com they rock!

    Just be prepared to hunt a bit for film backs and accessories. eBay can become your new best friend (and enemy, when you realize you need five more things) – or stick with the awesome sites like KEH above.

    9. Slows You Down—in the Best Way

    The RB67 isn’t a “spray and pray” kind of camera. You:

    • Load the film
    • Cock the shutter
    • Focus with precision
    • Compose like a Renaissance painter
    • Take one glorious frame
    • Wind everything again

    It’s not quick. It’s not convenient. But it does force you to be present. Every shot becomes a decision, not a reflex. And in a world of instant everything, that’s kind of magical.

    Final Thoughts: Should You Get One?

    If you’re looking for a lightweight travel companion, the RB67 is… not it. But if you want a studio beast, a mechanical marvel, or a camera that turns heads and produces gorgeous, high-resolution images—this is your soulmate.

    It’s not just a camera. It’s a commitment. A vibe. A lifestyle choice that says, “Yes, I will lug this thing to a park bench just to shoot three frames—and I’ll love every minute of it.”

    I myself shot this big beast handheld on the streets of Chicago close to my office and the river walk during my lunch time.

    So dust off your light meter, load up some 120 film, and embrace the glorious burden that is the Mamiya RB67.

    You will be glad you did!

    -Rich

    Side note : Shot with an RB67? Love it? Hate it? Want to start a support group for people who’ve dropped one on their foot? Sound off in the comments.

  • The Pentax Spotmatic: The Classic That Changed Photography

    The Pentax Spotmatic: The Classic That Changed Photography

    If you’re into vintage film cameras, you’ve probably heard of the Pentax Spotmatic. Released in 1964, this camera quickly became a game-changer in the world of 35mm photography, and even today, it’s still revered by both collectors and photographers who appreciate the raw beauty of film. But what makes the Spotmatic such a legend? Let’s dive into its story and explore why it still holds a special place in the hearts of photography enthusiasts.

    The Birth of the Spotmatic

    The Pentax Spotmatic wasn’t just another camera – it was a response to the growing demand for more advanced, user-friendly 35mm SLRs (single-lens reflex cameras). Before the Spotmatic, most SLRs required external light meters or a lot of guesswork when setting exposure. The Spotmatic was a breath of fresh air because it introduced through-the-lens (TTL) metering, meaning photographers could now see how much light was hitting the film while they were composing their shot. That might sound basic today, but back then, it was revolutionary.

    Why the Spotmatic Stands Out

    1. TTL Metering – A Game-Changer:
      The Spotmatic was one of the first to offer TTL metering, which meant the camera measured the light through the actual lens you were using. No more guessing or relying on external meters! This made shooting much easier and more precise, and it really helped set the Spotmatic apart from its competition.
    2. The M42 Screw Mount – Lens Freedom:
      The Spotmatic used the M42 screw mount, a system that was widely adopted by many manufacturers at the time. This gave users access to a ton of lenses, both from Pentax and other brands. So, if you had a particular lens you liked, or found a great deal on one, you didn’t have to stick exclusively to Pentax gear. It was a simple, cost-effective solution for photographers on a budget.
    3. Built Like a Tank:
      The Spotmatic wasn’t just about tech features – it was built to last. With a solid, metal body and mechanical internals, it felt sturdy in the hand, like a tool rather than a toy. Whether you were out on the streets or in a studio, this camera could take a beating. It’s one of those cameras that feels like it could survive a fall off a table and still take great photos.
    4. A Light Meter You Could Trust:
      Inside the viewfinder, you had a light meter needle that moved as you adjusted your settings. The Spotmatic made it easy to see if your exposure was correct, under, or overexposed. It wasn’t flashy, but it worked – and that’s what mattered. It was simple, intuitive, and effective, something that every photographer could appreciate.
    5. The Evolution:
      Over the years, the Spotmatic line evolved. The Spotmatic II, Spotmatic F, and even the Spotmatic ES each introduced new features, like the Spotmatic F’s flash metering system, and the ES’s electronic metering. These updates kept the camera relevant and continued to build on the original’s strengths.

    Why the Spotmatic Still Matters

    It’s easy to see why the Pentax Spotmatic became a beloved camera. Not only did it give photographers a much-needed step forward in terms of usability, but it also maintained a high standard of quality. Even though it’s long out of production, it still remains a popular choice for film lovers and collectors.

    The Spotmatic’s legacy isn’t just about the tech; it’s about how it transformed the way people approached photography. Before TTL metering, shooting could be hit-or-miss, especially for beginners. The Spotmatic made photography more accessible and predictable. In a way, it helped bridge the gap between amateur and professional photographers.

    Still a Favorite Today

    Fast forward to today, and you can still find Spotmatics in great condition on the used market. For film photographers, there’s something special about the experience of shooting with a classic camera like this. The tactile feel of turning the dials, the mechanical sound of the shutter, and the joy of capturing moments on film – all of that is still alive in the Spotmatic.

    Whether you’re an analog purist or someone who just enjoys the nostalgia of vintage gear, the Pentax Spotmatic is a camera that holds its ground in the digital age. It’s more than just a relic; it’s a piece of photographic history that still offers a fantastic shooting experience.

    In Conclusion

    The Pentax Spotmatic didn’t just change the game – it redefined it. With its innovative TTL metering, robust build, and user-friendly design, it earned a special place in the hearts of photographers everywhere. Today, it’s not just a camera; it’s a symbol of a golden era in photography, reminding us of a time when every shot felt a little more intentional and a lot more special. If you get the chance to shoot with one, you’ll understand why the Spotmatic’s reputation still endures after all these years.