AboutMalcolm Dickinson Expertise Questions about 35mm and medium format cameras, questions about developing B&W film; and questions about making B&W prints.
Experience I've been an avid photographer since 1981 and took a lot of B&W photography classes in college. I've done a lot of medium format work and have always developed & printed my own pictures.
Publications I had several photos published in college magazines and one photograph included in a juried exhibition.
Expert: Malcolm Dickinson Date: 2/8/2005 Subject: Medium format cameras
Question Hi,
I am the mother of a photography major who is also planning to minor in criminology to specialize in Forensic photography. My question is what is the best medium format camera to purchase without paying an arm and leg? All photography majors have to have a medium format camera. Where is a good place to purchase one on line since none of the local camera shops sell them? We know nothing about the equipment, so I am at a lost. I don't want to purchase the wrong thing and be stuck with it. Thanks for your help."
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Answer First of all, did they specify whether the camera should be 6x6cm or 6x7cm or 6x9cm? That's the first thing to find out.
The Fuji fixed-lens medium format rangefinder cameras are good. I have one, I think it's a SX670 or something like that. If you want 6x6, then there is a wide range of Twin Lens Reflex cameras available; I would suggest a Rolleiflex. These can be purchased used for not too much (about $400 I think).
I suggest you contact Stan Tamarkin Camera (find them on the web at www.tamarkin.com ; call them at 800 289-5342) and ask them what they have in USED 6x6 or 6x7 cameras. They know a LOT about the subject and I strongly suggest that if you buy used, you buy from them.
If you decide to buy new, then check prices as J&R Photo in NYC, Adorama Camera in NYC, and 47th Street Photo in NYC. One of those three stores will have the best price.
Hope this helps!
Malcolm
p.s. if in fact his college offers a minor in this subject, then they will CERTAINLY have guidelines as to recommended cameras. Do not hesitate to call up the professor who is in charge of the program and pose this question to him!
