First Frames with a Rolleiflex 3.5F - A New Favourite
Vložit
- čas přidán 27. 03. 2023
- Head to squarespace.com/kylemcdougall to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain using code KYLEMCDOUGALL
The Rolleiflex 3.5F is definitely one of the iconic cameras in the film world and one that I’ve wanted to try for a while now. With a new project on the horizon, I decided I’d switch things up and work with a TLR, and the Rollei seemed like it could be a great fit. In this video, I’m heading out to shoot my first few rolls with this camera, make sure everything is working, and get a feel for what it’s like before I jump into making serious work with it. This is a camera that hooked me, very quickly!
►Follow me on Instagram: / kyle__mcdougall
►Order my new book 📚 ‘An American Mile’: bit.ly/3Og6Z45
►*DISCLAIMER*
Some of the links below are affiliate links, where I earn a small commission if you click on the link and purchase an item. The money I earn helps me make this type of content consistently.
►GEAR USED IN THIS VIDEO(*these are affiliate links):
Rolleiflex 3.5F: ebay.us/TzSfIh
Sekonic L-558R: ebay.us/Bc7vgb
Ilford Delta 100: ebay.us/IjmLVB
My '35mm Film Photography Course' on Skillshare (FREE with this link): skl.sh/2JrGhFs
My 'Medium Format Film Photography Course' on Skillshare (FREE with this link): skl.sh/3r7KLta
Where I source music for my videos (One FREE month with this link): fm.pxf.io/c/1953156/1347628/1...
Videos on this channel are filmed using the Fuji X-H2s: bhpho.to/3UEjFVs
►FILM PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR (*these are affiliate links):
My go-to medium format camera: ebay.us/GaK9Kp
My favourite 35mm film camera: ebay.us/82WyVI
My favourite 35mm film lens: ebay.us/u0V817
My favourite medium format travel camera: ebay.us/FVcfWk
My go-to light meter: ebay.us/QIFXF0
My favourite film stock: ebay.us/orbudp
My favourite 645 medium format film camera: ebay.us/ydY4HK
→Instagram: bit.ly/2GuYV21
→Website: kmcdougall.com
Never happier than walking in New Orleans French Quarter with a Rolleiflex 3.5F Carl Zeiss Planar 75mm f3.5 Type 3. No one will refuse having their portrait made with this beautiful German Girl I call “Gretel.” People look at her with wonder and awe. They want to touch and hold her. Those looks and conversations are Magic. Rollei understood “Magic” and “X-Factor.” They even get some of that Magic into the Prints. How do I begin to explain that Medium Format Look. And vs. the 2.8, smaller lenses were EXPONENTIALLY easier to design and make to perfection without too much sample variation. It’s a lens that is without words in it’s painting of Black and Whites. The joy it brings is priceless!!! If you buy one, and don’t like it 3 years later- you can probably sell it for more than you paid for it😂, again- “Magic.” A Camera’s Camera. I believe it’s the King of Photography. Btw, the Schneider Kreuznach Xenotar is just as Fine- but I ended up with a Zeiss Planar- (and I am a Zeiss Fanboy), but the Schneiders are just as amazing, and I would be just as proud if it had a Xenotar. I am honest enough to say that the Xenar IS Sharper than a Tessar, and I love the Tessar as well. On the Cheaper ones, I say Tessar for Black and White, Xenar for Color or B&W. If you do want smooth OOF areas, I say go for Tessar/Xenar because the Planar is so amazingly sharp, it’s OOF is busy because it tries endlessly to resolve infinity😂. It’s like trying to get a BMW to use a blinker, or a Porsche to do 35 in a 70mph Speed Limit. Germany has given us a some very fun things.
One of the better comments on CZcams!!!
Poetry, MAN!
Wonderful explanation
I have spent most of my life shooting with a variety of Rolleiflex Twin lens cameras. From my very first, a 2.8F, these cameras just felt right in my hand and the results were astounding. Traveling with the Rolleiflex and the few accessories one needs is always simple and easy. In the last few years I added a Rolleiflex Wide which is truly incredible camera. Don't overlook that silly little Rollei panorama head. It changed my life!
Christopher , hello I am Christopher too 😃 and I have shot my Rollei D 3.5 75mm in Vietnam and US , yes the Rollei's are amazing , and I love them , in fact I just procured a Museum quality 55mm F4 Wide Rollei , from a collection, that camera is superb the meter still works and is accurate too even the case is magnificent.
In my opinion ; the ROLLEI is underestimated by many photographers , and is an open secret to us in the loop ... The lenses and reliability and form factor , win out in many instances , especially in photographing people , they do not fear but are drawn to these odd vintage cameras. I love my Rollei's ♥
I just scored my first Rolleiflex last week. This guy owned a garage saw me photographing and asked if I wanted it. I told him I'd give him $100 because I didn't know if it worked. It works like a charm and is my new favorite as well.
If it is working I don’t mind paying at least double that….depending on which version it may go up
So you ripped the guy off, well good for you.
@@mortimersnerd8044 I do not believe that! Just a beautiful fairy tale.😊
Good for you.
@@mortimersnerd8044lol
I have enjoyed shooting my Rolleiflex 3.5F over the years. It has yet to disappoint me on any assignment.
Glad you finally joined the Rolleiflex family.
Had my 2.8D for 2 years. Perfect for traveling & family moments.
Mine, by some divine coincidence, has the same serial# as I did in high school. Plus it was in near perfect condition after being built in 1955. Will always be my forever camera.
I bought a 3.5F for $250 from a local picker. Seemed good and clean. Took great photos. Got curious about what year it was made. Dug into some serial numbers and found out that mine was a 3.5F "Whiteface" which was a rare model. I now could not justify carrying it around with me, I am not the most careful person. So like an idiot I sold it for a huge profit. I miss it dearly.
$250!!!! wow
I have my uncles old Rolleiflex 2.8f planar and its a beautiful camaera, my fiance uses it more then me now but it is so sharp and just a joy to use.
Hey man sorry to hear about your troubles. Picked up a 2.8f from a from a friend about 5 years ago and it is easily my favorite camera I've ever owned and Ive owned everything in between a leica and a hassleblad and nothing inspires me to go out and shoot more than this camera. The lenses on these camers are like nothing I have ever seen out of any camera. Really hope you can get your hands on another one would love to see more work from you on one of these.
I bought my 2.8E rollei with a huge dent in the side. Took me 15 minutes to fix it and it's been my 2nd favorite camera. I freaking love these tlrs
Have a rolleiflex 3.5 myself that I was gifted by my dad who got it from his dad, my grandpa, who was the original owner. I have put some use in it over the past 8 years or so and its starting to have some issues. Going to send it in and have it fully CLAd and freshened up. Would love for that camera to stay in the family for at least another generation. Such a cool camera and a meaningful family heirloom that honestly pushed me to become a photographer when i was in early high school.
I own a Rolleiflex 3.5 Automat 4KA I inherited, also a Rolleiflex 4x4 which is highly underrated (ok, the film problem) and a 3.5 C which I love too. The Automat though is smaller and lighter and the Tessar makes better contrasts. What I wonder is, why you went for the F, if you don't make use of the removable finder hood. As you have no light meter in this particular model and it doesn't seem to have modified as the selenium cell gave up, I have thought, it rather be a 3.5 E which was made beside the F and later for those who didn't want the light meter.
Anyways, good luck for finding a new, workable companion and thanks for picking up one in the first place 🙂
I'm very intrigued by the prism finder and that's one of the appeals of the F. Probably an accessory I'll pick up at some point.
@@KyleMcDougall That I can understand very well. The 3.5 E's can serve you there too - without the cost for the F ;-) Looking forward to see more Rolleiflex Adventures by you.
I have the Rolleicord V that a friend gave me after the death of his father. It had a broken prism, the focus lens was out of adjustment, and it didn't work well at slow speeds.
In addition to being an incredible machine, it has proven to be very easy to repair: a little grease here, a screw there... et voilà! New camera for another 80 years
I work in a camera store and we sold this exact camera (same serial) a few months ago in “as-is” condition with the damage you described - if the guy you bought it from didn’t mention the problems then you should for sure send it back.
Hey Nick, very very interesting to hear that. Small world as well. The camera has now been returned, but funny to hear that, as there was no mention of this damage from the seller when I bought it. Thanks for the heads up.
Got myself the little brother Rolleicord Va f3.5 (one of the last models) last year. I’ve used cheaper TLRs before but the workmanship of the Rollie is really next level. Mine is in great condition for a late 50s camera and the focus is smooth and easy. I’m enjoying it with Delta 100. I’m in Australia and we have plenty of light for ISO 100!
Where thar bump is on yours could easily affect the focus mechanism
Rolleicord Va is a great camera, especially if you find one in the leather case with accessories, they are awesome finds that take sensational images.
Great! I have a Rolleicord Vb, which was owned by one person from new, he had all accessories too, case, film masks (for 35mm and others) plus a Rolleilux light meter/hood.
It's a well built camera - in fact, I don't think there are any plastic parts on it!
Bumps to the front plane of TLRs are more common than you think. I tend to walk around with the focus set on infinity to minimize any damage from mild impact. It doesn't take much of a ding to muck up the focus racking or to knock it out of focus.
Great to see you've picked up a Rollei. I own a K4A, which is a 3.5 version as well. I love it. Great for travel, incredible lens, iconic format. Really looking forward to see more work you make with it!
This is the camera that Ans Westra, arguably New Zealand's greatest ever photographer predominantly used. Unfortunately, earlier this month, Ans passed. Do yourself a favour and check out her work. R.I.P
To watch you get out and about in this weather whilst enjoying your time with your new camera is very inspiring, Thanks man! 📸
Thanks! I completely agree with what you said at the beginning. I sold almost all my medium format equipment. Only the lenses weighed a ton. I kept the Voightländer folding Bessa ii and my Rolleiflex 3,5F. I bought the Rollei in 1974, when I was on a budget. The 2,8 and 3,5 are clones, except for the almost one step of sensitivity. I hardly ever missed the extra sensitivity. The advantage for me of the 3,5 is that it it lighter and has a slightly wider angle. With 6x6, cropping is no issue.
Good luck with the repairs!
I've had a Rolleiflex 3.5 Tessar for 20 years or so. Other cameras have changed, but the Rolleiflex has always remained. It is always such a joy to use, for me it's like coming home. And people seem relaxed and to like being shot with it too.
Kyle : Your 75mm 3.5 is similar to mine , without the meter . I have used my 75mm Rollei in Vietnam with amazing results , and every image is impeccable and in a historic palpable way.
I took the Rollei to shoot in Vintage Format and was so pleased. My newest Rollei is the F model 55mm F4 DISTAGON , and it's beautiful. I was blessed to have 2nd opportunity to acquire a model that was in a collection , she is beautiful. Never underestimate the venerable Rollei's.
I got about 15 years ago a Rolleiflex 3.5 tessar, to see if it could good for me, and it was love at first sight. I then sold it to get the 3.5F planar 6 lenses and I still have it. It is one of the cameras that once you have you could not sell. It is long time that I don't use it, but I will restart very soon for portraits and landscapes.
Finaly found my dads rollei,
Took some test shots, still works.great photos.
Havent seen it used 50 years.
I am having it cleaned. Hope to get it soon
Love the cool factor...
I have/had a Rolleiflex, it was my grandpa. He used it during WWII when he was in Russia to document the war. Some years ago after several years of unused time, I tried to fix it through a specialized shop, it worked for a while but then died definitely. Now it lies on my bookshelves. I am looking for a new one, I enjoyed shooting with it. Btw, nice video as usual.
Nice to see videos of people with Rolleis since it seems everyone wants Leica. I have a rollei MX-EVS and a 1960s 2.8F in excellent condition. Of the two the MX-EVS is so much easier to lug around since it’s lighter plus having the slightly wider 75mm lens than the 2.8’s 80mm is quite handy. There is however something quite special about that 2.8 that I can’t quite place my finger on. Maybe it’s the Bokeh, the extra bit of sharpness overthe MX-EVS, or maybe it’s the slightly handy meter. Whatever it is that pushes 2.8F ahead of the other, it’s the one I can’t seem to leave the house without. I would never trade it for anything.
I have a Rolleiflex 3.5 E3 (planar as well) and I just love it. It’s just about right for almost everything.
Mine is having an overhaul at the moment, and I’d suggest that you send the camera to the same guy. His name is Sandro Presta (Laboratorio Fotografico Ligure). He is based near Genova, in Italy, but he is one of the most competent repairmen in business regarding Hasselblads and Rolleiflexes. The difference between a camera before and after he worked on it is Night and Day.
He says that the 3.5 planar is sharper, because the 2.8 suffer from focus shift, so the 3.5f is the one to get to have the best possible image quality
I have a Rolleiflex 3.5E and I love it! Need to send it to service too, but it's complicated finding someone who REALLY knows what to do down here in Mexico.
Hey Kyle. I hung out with 'The Rolleiflex Guy', Brian Mickelboro, last summer as he lives near my home town. He still repairs Rolleis, having worked with Rolleiflex all his life, and he fixed up my Rollei 35 on my last visit. If you need to know anything Rollei, he's your man. I don't have a Rolleiflex but I do have a quite rare Olympusflex 2.8.
Do you have his contacts? I have one Rolleiflex for a repair.
Kyle - I am a Rollei collector, the face you're seeing the deformation of is a very lightweight aluminum stamping. It's shape being out of sorts could easily be, and likely is, the issue with control problems. The problem might be other than dropping it, rather it may have just been handled a little roughly. I believe it can easily be straightened with just finger pressure, once removed from the camera body.
If you're otherwise happy with the camera, you might consider keeping and having it properly straightend by a qualified Rollei technician. If you get rid of it and get another, you may just get bigger issues with it. I'll wager this can quickly be resolved and you'll have a great camera. If it costs a few bucks, it's so well worth it.
Patrick
Thanks for the advice, Patrick. Yeah, if you look at it from the side, you can actually see that the face is a bit warped. The camera has gone back now, and I'm waiting to hear about repair.
In 1982 I was 20 feet into a journey to Cairo, Egypt and I backed my car over my camera bag. However, it wasn't until I sat in my hotel next to the Cairo Museum when I was loading film into my Rolleiflex that I realised I couldn't focus it. The tow ball on my car had squashed the body and it's time had come.
My advice to you is don't fix it, return it and buy another. I started with a Rolleicord V in 1974 then Rolleiflex T's and then f2.8's. They all make great photos. I currently have a mint f2.8 with b&w filters and a set of 3 Rolleinars pairs. I did have a pair of accessory Sun telephoto lenses, plus a sheet film back and they both worked well, but long gone. Buy what you can afford, but buy the best that you can afford. Dump that overweight 6x7 and it'll pay for the best. 😊
Don't know if I could part with the Pentax. I think I'd end up missing it too much!
Had different Rolleis with Tessar, Xenar and 3.5 Planar lenses. The one with 3.5 Planar is my favourite. Image has that nice unique look with sharp edges and little bit of a softening glow on top. Very nice neutral colour without over saturation and already good performance wide open. Great camera and a pleasure to photograph with.
I am a sucker for planars, own many of these lenses on different systems, but this one is my favourite by far.
this video is exactly what i needed. it's been a long winter and spring is finally here - so i'm excited to go out with my Walzflex TLR to shoot some stuff! looking forward to more TLR videos from you
The Rolleicord Vb was the first camera I bought as a teenager back in the day and I still shoot that same camera today. I had an opportunity to shoot a Pentax 67 for a year but honestly the mirror slap was a stark reminder of how quiet and gentle the Rolleicord was hand held and sharp on a tripod. I love 6X6 but have both a RB67 and Fuji rangefinder when I’m looking to mix it up. There is definitely a place in my heart for 6X6 and the zen of TLR. Definitely get yours fixed or find another that works better- you won’t look back.
If you need a repair service, I'd recommend Black On White in Bristol. They repaired my RB67 and it works perfectly now!
I own a 2.8 F and love it. Hard to believe a 60+ year old camera is so much fun to use.
Some 10 yrs ago I was gifted with a Yashica LM, the old version, with a broken frame counter. I needed years to find someone whio can fix that, course without frame counter I had a serious overlapping problem.
But once fixed, camera works flawlessly ever since. Never needed another TLR...
Definitely send it back. That could be a huge issue to fix if it’s even possible to make right again. Rollei’s can break your heart. My 3.5F is one of my all time favorite cameras but it took a while to find a good one and I’ve still had to send it out for repair since I’ve owned it. They can be finicky but SO rewarding when they are working properly
I picked up a Rolleiflex 3.5 Automat 3 a year ago from an antique store. I love the build quality, especially for a camera that's 70+ years old. It doesn't have the Zeiss glass, but instead Schneider-Kreuznach Xenar 75mm. I haven't really shot much with Carl Zeiss lenses because of the price, but the Schneider lens is really nice in my opinion.
I also own a Mamiya C2. It's fantastic as well. I love the ability to change out lenses on it, but with that being said you get into the predicament that you had with your Pentax 6x7. You mean to travel light, but then you start packing extra lenses, finders, grips, etc.
The Rolleiflex is just a simple camera that makes you stay focused on shooting and that's why I prefer it at the moment.
That's definitely part of what I love about it. The simplicity. Throw it in a bag and go. No other decisions.
Just got my first Rollei 3.5F type 4. I can't wait until I try it.
Excellent job on the square format shots. They all suit the format really well.
My father in law, a gear nut, back in the day had both the 3.5 and the 2.8 from new. He said the 3.5 was a better lens than the 2.8 ... The 3.5 was sharper. The 2.8 he said was made for the press who wanted speed as the main driver.
Nice one Kyle. I found it interesting watching you shoot square, its a love hate thing it seems I’ve always loved it personally.
Cheers, Dan!
Rolleiflex and Rolleicords are great! I love them!
Nice to see you join Rolleiflex gang Kyle, they’re beautiful cameras!
Clear, concise and insightful. The presentation of your photographic process is inspiring. Bless🕊
First and foremost, congrats on 100K, Kyle! I've been following the channel for years and you are without a doubt the channel I look forward to most seeing new content from. Here's to another 100k!
I own a Rollicord V and.an F 3.5, both lovely systems. Rollie ground glass is notoriously dim. There's a few places online to order replacements that will make focusing easier in low light and the overall shooting experience so much more enjoyable. Replacement is also very straight forward.
Great stuff. Always good to see Portsmouth as well; I went to university there and still spend a lot of time there. Great city.
Cheers, Daniel. Portsmouth is my go-to for random day's out. The closest part of the coast to where I live.
Just purchased a 3.5E few weeks ago (already have a Rolleicord and 2.8E). I'm happy with. Convenient like the 2.8, but smaller (and less expensive). Sometimes it's enough. And if I need something fancier, I'll bring the Mamiya C.
Love square format... such a unique compositional experience. Also love experiencing photo taking through a big bit of ground glass.
Congrats on 100k mate, as always - love the content.
Cheers, Mike!
I just shoot my first 120 with my grandad's Seagull 4b, the chinese version of a rollei. Gotta say the feeling is lovely BUT it's definitively testing my nerves the reversed image in the viewfinder 😅 hope with practice will get better because it takes me foreeeever to frame !🤣 Now I look forward to see what came out this portra...
Great vid as usual Kyle. Thanks 4 sharing!
Been going in on your stuff lately. Love to see it/keep it coming!
The shot at 6:19 has to be my favorite. Such a fantastic camera, I'm trying out TLR for the first time right now and it's a unique experience for sure!
Great shots Kyle, hope you get things sorted. I have a Yashica Mat and have been loving it. No split prism so focusing is tricky but square format and a TLR is just such a nice combination.
Have a 2.8 Rollei, bought it years ago, key things for me was changing the focus screen to a modern brighter version, huge difference
I never was much of a Rolleiflex fan although I lusted after their SL66 and SLX SLR. I had a Mamiya C330 and loved that camera but then traded it and some other items for a Leica M4-P which I still have and use. That one is almost new after my CLA. For medium format my camera is the Mamiya RB67. I just love that beast. I love the full mechanical nature, the bellows, the lenses, etc. I take it out often usually tripod but often handheld. You are correct about Rollei mystique. It is the TLR equivalent of the Leica. Have fun with your repaired one or the replacement.
very awesome soundtrack, made me feel in a movie
I got a Rolleiflex F2.8, and I love it ! I think it is my "if you have to choose only one camera to take with you on a desert island" camera :) I also love that it has a dedicated leather case adapted to transport it, a functional lightmeter which works without any battery, also that the whole camera works without any battery, and the possibility to have shallow depth of field with the 2.8 aperture. I also love the square format and the portability. Like you I also had issues with the shutter wheel being hard to turn in the slow speeds (speeds slower than 1/30s if I remember well), so I asked for a repair to the pro reseller who sell it to me, and few weeks later it was fixed. (here in France we have still a guy repairing Rolleiflex, and the pro store which sold me the Rolleiflex works with him, and there is also a guarantee of few months after the buy). I also asked the repair guy to put a better screen (more luminosity) on it, to help for the framing (it really makes a difference with the standard screen). The lens is very sharp indeed. I think this is my best "all-in-one" camera : fun, efficient, compact, beautiful and easy to use camera. If you plan to do portraits with it also, I recommend the 2.8F model over the 3.5F. I also bought later the prism viewfinder (plus the other dedicated leather case for the camera with this prism finder mounted on it), to have better visibility of framing when there is harsh light (less light enter the viewfinder), more precise framing on the edges, and to avoid the left-right inversion in the viewfinder, but I don't use it a lot, as it adds more weight to the camera. I saw Richard Dumas (a famous french BW portraits photographer) using this prism viewfinder on his Rolleiflex in a video on CZcams, and I think it is more an help for portraits than for landscapes.
Hey Kyle this RF3.5F is a gem , I have one which bought directly from Rolleiflex company many years ago , no need to mention that it’s works as the day it left the factory, one thing interesting back in the days when my friend entered Rolleiflex company and asked for five cameras they actually recommended him to buy this model instead the 2.8 mostly due to weight and lens sharpness they said it’s the best rollei ever made , so good luck with fixing this one (not an issue) looking forward to see more videos and photos with this lovely camera 🤘
A historia with my Rolleiflex is that the previous owner was a photojournalist and used it to take picture of Jimi Hendrix when he visited my hometown in the 60s.
It’s a 3.5E with Xenotar lens.
Pretty cool backstory!
Great video. I just got a 3.5F at the end of last year and fell in love with it during first shoot with it in Washington, DC. I talked about the exact problem you are having in the video I made, testing the focusing is key. It should be silky smooth and if it’s not it has probably been dropped and that throws everything off. I would send it back and get another one. The repair can be huge, provided you can get someone that really knows how to fix them. But it is now one of my favourite cameras. 👍
Cheers, Todd. Saw your video when I was doing some research for this. And yeah, just sent it back. Waiting to hear about potential repair. Regardless, I'll own another one soon!
@@KyleMcDougall Sounds great, you'll like it, it fast became my fav camera. Can't wait to see your new work from it.
I have a Rolleicord Vb - the last and best of the that line of Rollei TLR's. Okay, not as great a lens as the 3.5F, but still makes tack sharp images, and I've even used it for some wedding photography.
The only down side is, that every time I use it in public - people always stop and enquire about it!
Yes, embrace the square!
To answer the 3.5 vs 2.8 question: I have a 2.8E myself, with the same 2.8 Planar lens that came in the F model (as well as a handful of other various Rolleiflex models with various different lenses). The 3.5 Planar is the tiniest bit sharper off-center than the 2.8 even at equivalent apertures, but it's subtle- The 2.8 trades maybe 5% sharpness for about 2/3 a stop of extra light, and a really lovely, sort of 'sharp but also low contrast' characteristic wide open, which is distinctly unique compared to the 3.5 models. The 2.8's rendering is perhaps a bit more dreamlike and bloomy/glowy too, but it's not a big difference. I can't speak personally on any of the Schneider Xenotar lenses, since I don't own any of those just yet.
I'd say, if you really fall in love with using one, and feel like a Rolleiflex could become a really substantial part of your workflow, then the 2.8 could certainly be worth it. However, if it'll be one good camera among several other cameras that gets swapped in and out, the extra cost is tricky to justify!
Ayyy welcome to the fold! Congrats on grabbing a 3.5f!
Hey Kyle, I have a 3.5 and a 2.8 - I would advise to stick with a 3.5 because the handling is better and the lens is just as good as the 2.8 - the 2.8 isn't as balanced and doesn't handle as nicely - also the 75 is better suited to landscape, there is a slight difference 75mm vs 80mm. I like both because my 2.8 is a C with 10 bladed aperture which gives rounder smoother bokeh when stopped down... however it does have the old timings which make me think a bit when metering - each of us has an ideal, personally I recommend the 3.5E Xenotar because I like the rendering of that lens best and the E is a very solid and reliable machine, an F is equally as good but will cost more... you definitely want one that hasn't been dropped but if you like the F you have I can recommend you a great technician in Italy who is't expensive but will do you a great CLA
I had a rolleiflex with a 3.5 tessar . The images at infinity were soft, but for work that was closer, like shooting people, the images were wonderful.
So glad to see you using TLR’s and your camera reviews are some of my favourite videos of yours! I have been using a Yashica D (albeit a bit lower end), for quite some time now and absolutely love it. The ground glass is some of the sharpest i’ve ever used and have produced some amazing prints with it
You are so right about the Yashica D. I use my grand dad's. Is a special camera and I love the results I get
Cheers, Andrew. Never used the D, but I always enjoyed the 124G from Yashica.
Thanks for sharing your experience with the Rollei, Kyle. Looks like it soon needs a CLA. Good luck with that.
Later iterations of 3.5F with 6 element planar lens are optically better and give more pleasant bokeh and better contrast than 2.8. Despite lower collectable value and price, in my opinion late 3.5F with 12/24 switch or 3.5F whiteface with planar lens were the best rolleiflexes that were ever produced.
Great video btw,
kindest regards
I have a 2.8F and absolutely love it. It's the only MF camera I travel with and I love the classic look of the images. Truly special cameras. I would be tempted to splurge for the 2.8 in case you ever did want that shallow depth of field. Portraits are beautiful on this camera! Great video as always Kyle and looking forward to the Part II once you decide. Cheers!
Kyle before I bought my 3.5f I got a 3.5 Tessar. Had exactly the same issue as yours. I returned it to KEH and got the 3.5f. Much happier. Definitely try to return or exchange
Cheers, Rick. This one has gone back and I got my hands on another.
This makes me wanna get a TLR of my own 😅 always inspired by your videos man.
TLRs are amazing cameras. It's so awesome how lightweight they are and there are so many affordable options most people will be happy with. It doesn't necessarily need to be a Rolleiflex.
My favorite camera/meter combo to take outside is my Rolleiflex plus a Weston batteryless meter. I have a nice compact bag for them. Great stuff.
Love my tlr so light and the images are great. Super sharp.
TLR love. The Mamiya C3 is my weapon of choice as I like the bellows and interchangeable lenses which makes it so versatile. Definitely heavier than the Rolleiflex mind you 😁
Sorry to see your first option hasn't worked out.
3.5 is noticeably lighter and better balanced -and ultimately more fun to shoot than the 2.8, feel like that gets underlooked
Other reason to go for the 3.5 is the wider lens as its 75mm over the 2.8 80mm. I had one back in the day and its just a great camera.
I was hooked like that, with a Mamiyaflex C330 pro f. It's was cheaper, not much heavier, and found it a way more versatile. I also feel less anxiety taking it out than the Rollei. (again, the price)
Stay safe.Peace
Great vlog, shame about the Rolleiflex. Really took me back to my early days of photography when I was shooting 90% B&W I had a dark room at home. I used the lovely Yashica mat, Bronica etrsi 6x45, Mamiya RB 6x7 and a Mamiya Press 6x9. I hope one day to get more active photographically, I found your vlog inspiring, thank you.
Hey Kyle, I picked up a Rollei 3.5 at too good a price to pass, its fun and simple, the only mechanical issue it had was the plunger for the shutter would stick, believe it or not a drop of lighter fluid freed it up nicely. I find the edges a bit soft but it gives it character, it has the leather covering and I kinda feel like Richard Avedon or Helmut Newton when using it, but then reality kicks in. Good luck with yours, 2.8 is a nice option too. Cheers..
Love to see you being enthusiastic like that ! I am using Rolleiflex cameras since the 1990s on and off and there's nothing else like it 🏁. The ratio of quality to size and weight is unique, the "quirks" of TLRs are actual benefits for me as the flipped matte screen image and waist level perspective seem to push my imagination and focus while composing. And as you mentioned, the fixed lens does away with constant what-ifs of focal length and so on, you just learn to naturally deal with it! And for TLR limitations - wait until you've tried a Rolleinar 😉, that's another eye opener. After using a Rolleicord, Rolleiflex T, 3.5E Planar, 2.8C Xenotar and 3.5MX- EVS I have settled on a "like new" 2.8F Planar. The images from the Planar 3.5 were already near perfect but my 2.8 is about 12years younger and the lenses are just pristine, that's the important thing. Also the accessories for the bigger 2.8 lenses are, while more expensive, much more abundant. As for the camera you showed in the video, I am sure it can be fixed, and made to last some more decades when checked and adjusted by an expert service person. I've not seen you this excited about a camera in a while , this one could stay with you for a long time! (IG @_stefkas_ ) :)
Love mine which I got during Covid and its a great camera.
Excellent video! Long time Rolleiflex user (3.5T). I use a prism mostly. Have a book of photos from just this camera... it can't be beat IMO! Love your calm understated and very thoughtful take on things and your work is fantastic! My favourite photo channel! Take care!
Thank you!
The Rollei T was the first medium format that I ever owned, I have bought and sold many other cameras since, including Plaubel Makinas, Mamiya and Pentax. The Rollei is still my favourite. The Rollei Vb is also excellent value and even lighter than a T. Just watch out for balsam separation, did own a 2.8F and a 3.5F, but had to return both as they both had that issue.
I was actually looking for a T before I settled on the 3.5F.
Nice addition!
Hi Kyle, I enjoyed your video and you hit on all the aspects of the Rolleiflex that I value; light weight, build quality, and exceptional lens. I have the 2.8 and while I hadn’t considered the benefit of no extra lenses you’re absolutely right. It is pick up that camera and go, no extra lenses, film backs, etc. I did have my CLA’d and purchased a bright screen for it. It works great now and is easy to focus with the brighter screen.
I own neither, but historically, the Planar 3.5F has been considered a slightly better optical package than the 2.8F, but you'd have to go to an optical bench to tell any difference. Definitely the supreme TLR. Treat it well, and use it often. As far as stiff selectors, it's more likely to be a question of when it was last cleaned and relubricated than when last used.
Kyle, I’m excited for you! I own a 2.8f and hands down my dream camera. These cameras are certainly magical and absolutely live up to their name.
Also good luck on your decision in whether or not you replace or fix. Let us know what your next move is.
My focusing knob sometimes feels stiff if I don’t use it as often.
Cheers!
I was using a Rollei TLR at the Analogue Spotlight photo walk last year, not sure if you noticed, I think we were photographing the 2CV at the same time. That was a Rolleicord Va, but in January this year I bought a Rolleiflex 3.5F and I absolutely love it. Considering I mostly use a Deardorff V8, the Rollei is a joy to carry around! I was surprised how well the meter works too. Hope you get sorted with a repair or replacement.
Cheers, Roger! The cord is a great camera as well. Used to own one a while ago.
Yes, the cord is a great camera but there is something about the 3.5F that makes it special. I've put more rolls of film through the 3.5F in 3 months than I have in 4 or 5 years with the cord.
I got a rolleicord with a 3.5 lens as well, not zeiss but still really sharp and I love that camera, so enjoyable to use and so lightweight!
I picked up a Rolleiflex 3.5 MX-EVS after watching GxAce's video on Rolleiflexes and I honestly love it so much and it got me shooting a lot more medium format since I don't have to deal with the hassle of bringing my Pentax 6x7 around. Honestly for the size, weight and quality of image they produce they're really hard to beat.
Hi Kyle, me again. I work in europes largest vintage camera store in Delft NL. We specialize in vintage premium cameras like the rollei and always have them serviced prior selling. For the knobs, gears and wheels: Definately something that serviceable by our technician, you can check him out at Amsterdam Camera Repairs. Dent however is kinda sus. Maybe thats some handy info for you. Anyway, i wanted to let you know that in our opinion the 2.8F is not worth the extra money, the 3.5 even has the better lens in my opinion. Beautiful system. Enjoy it!
Really appreciate that, Thom! This camera has now gone back and just waiting to have it assessed and possibly repaired.
I have both the Rolleiflex 2.8 and a Mamiya C330, which I absolutely love. I was able to find a really good deal on my Rollei...it came with an almost pristine leather case. The only thing it didn't have was the original strap, but I was able to find a source for one so I didn't mind. I need to shoot more with it though. I'm afraid it's going to gum up if I don't work the shutter on a regular basis.
I have both the 3.5F and the 2.8F and the 3.5F is my user camera because it’s a noticeably lighter and much cheaper. Sometimes it even appears sharper than the 2.8F (not that sharpness is always desirable!) I carry it in an Ona sling bag absolute blast to use especially easy to focus with an upgraded focusing screen either Maxwell or the cheaper Rick Oleson BrightScreen which is fine for my eyes!
Thanks for another great and informative video. Found a 3.5E and was on the fence about selling the Yashica Mat 124G and Ricohflex to buy it... not on the fence anymore.
More importantly, my sister lives in York, I've traveled the UK from Bath to Edinburgh, and I'm sure I've never seen (or even heard of) an El Camino in the isles... Órale!
I have 2.8F(Planar) in very nice condition but now i still find 3.5F(Planar) 😂 because the 3.5 it’s near Perfection
I have two Mamiya C220s -- on the tankier side, so probably not the lightweight camera you're looking for, but most certainly worth taking for a spin if you get the chance
Looked at those many times and have always been intrigued.
One of my favorite cameras! Although mine is the one without the light meter on it. Great camera either way some of my best images have come from that camera!
Great video as always Kyle! I have the Yashica Mat-124 (non g) which is a very similar camera, and it is a joy to use! There's something about the way you operate these TLRs and quality you can get from them that is just magic. Also, that composition at 6:45 is so good! I love the elements that cut the frame right down the middle.