Mamiya RB67 5 Year Review - Before You Buy
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- čas přidán 6. 01. 2021
- Having owned this camera for exactly 5 years on the day I recorded this, I decided that I might have some insights to offer.
I hope that what I have said is somewhat useful, or at least inspires conversation!
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Instagram: / willysheepskin
Website: www.willysheepskin.com/
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Do you reckon I've been too harsh on the system? All of my takes on the camera are as a result of real world experience with it, and other people might have owned these for decades and never ran into an issue. I'd like to reiterate that I do think the RB67 system is excellent, just that one should take its robustness with a pinch of salt. I hope to see many informative inputs in the comments, as I found the insights offered by people who saw my last video super helpful!
I’ve got the rz67. Ive had it for 5 years also. Not had any issues but I agree that it can be difficult to shoot. Your example of trouble shooting is so spot on. I had my niece over a couple weeks ago and the camera wouldn’t advance. I wasted a whole role. I later realised that I must have set my lens to “T” so the lens shutter wouldn’t close until I flicked the lever on the lens.
I love this camera for project work and planned shoots. It’s not the greatest for of the cuff things.
You are actually rather spot on in terms of how some people’s work can take a nose dive. Mike has in terms of documenting life. Ive a Nikon f Apollo which I’ve not used for a good year maybe. I convince myself the rz67 with my 65mm la will be ok but once out it’s just awkward most of the time.
@@soulstart89 Thanks for the insight! I actually probably should also have mentioned the issue of the mirror lock up on RB lenses, if you forget to switch the lens off of MLU the camera will still seem to be firing, but will actually be making blank images because the leaf shutter isn't actuating haha!
I hope you manage to push through the awkwardness of the system and come out the other side strong! I really reckon it's worth it, although constant use seems to be key because I still occasionally take a break from mine and struggle to get back into it.
I wish you many more years of faithful service from your RZ!
@@willysheepskin you are right. The longer you stay away from using the camera the more foreign it becomes.
Like you stated the perfect camera doesn’t exist lol.
This baby isn’t going anywhere’s all. It always fires gems for me. It’s just i I can’t be impulsive. I need to slow down and take my time.
My next project is a 6x12 camera. 🤗
Wish you also great frames and adventures with your RB. Your 500mm looks like a missile lol
I think it's quite spot on. I've had RB67 ProS (2010-2015 approx 100 rolls and polaroid type100) and I would describe the camera a having it's own mind.
There are number of levers that will prevent the camera from firing or actually taking pictures (mirror lock up lever, double exposure prevention, darkslide lock...) and sometimes the troubleshooting is more of a MacGyver approach. I recall that sometimes I had to poke the darslide pin on the back to release the back or attach the back, or I've shot with the mirror lock up level only to discover a blank roll (show me one owner of RB67 who haven't been there). Also the double exposure prevention on the back. One of my backs was working fine and on the other one I had to had this lever in position to allow the double exposure as otherwise the back prevented the camera from firing (which resulted in occasional double exposure).
I still think about whether I should have kept it after all those years. But maybe my nostalgia is being triggered by all the youtubers who take pictures I only wish I took so it was probably for the best.
@@bennmurhaaya8518 Thanks for the insights Benn!
I have ironically also experienced all of the issues you have listed haha. I have a back that also has to be in double exposure position to allow an image to be made, although it somehow recently just decided to start working normally again? The magic mind of the RB haha.
I also after many happy years not making that MLU error shot 7 blank frames a couple of weeks ago which brought me back down to earth.
I'm definitely still going to keep mine, even though both are in need of repair now again, but I definitely wouldn't be able to justify picking another one up at the prices they're going for currently!
Finally, a film photography review that is actually not just a hype machine but informative and balanced. Thanks!
Thanks for watching!
At last someone that used the camera more than a month, so tired of the "first time shooting the mamiya" videos.
Keep it up, vibe with your style.
Thanks man! I'll be putting out more long term reviews for the cameras I've owned for multiple years soon!
Lol it's like yeah of course the first impressions are going to be great. That's how every camera is till something is wrong with it lol.
This editing is immaculate
Thank you! It took some doing haha
I love your staircase of dependable cameras. Definitely a future show!
Thanks Steve! I shall have to put together videos for all of them at some point, any excuse to put some film through the Nikon f3, gosh I love that camera
I love the editing of this video. And thank you for your take on, and information about the camera.
very nice of you to post this, i gathered quite a selection before the frenzy and all including my rb's are doing very well
love the creativity with all the different camera angles during the review
Love all the different creative shots! Excited for more of William Sheepskin
Was JUST about to buy one of these because the only reviews I could were saying it’s incredible. Glad I watched this video first because I definitely cant be bothered to deal with those issues constantly. Thanks for making an honest and thoughtful review!
I've watched this start to finish 4 times now... and still finding bits that I missed the first few times... Love it ! 😎
Love the info on this video and all your video transitions too!I got mine as a gift 10 years ago but stopped shooting once the fp 100c film got discontinued. I got tired of lugging it around too but am inspired again! Thank you!
I really like the style of the video and it’s content. Thank you for the helpful information!!
Man you really went all out on this. I actually have been noticing a lot more people in the film community using this camera, so I was wondering what the hype was all about. Honestly, I think some people own it just because of the popularity it's getting. I'm glad you didn't sugar coat and you gave us some good, stone cold facts.
I'm glad you found it helpful! I try to always be honest in my takes on things, and unfortunately the RB's I have used have given themselves a lot of aspects to be honest about hahaha.
Excellent job, man. Thank you for taking the time to shine a more realistic light on these cameras.
Thanks Raf!
This is a good counterpoint to the hype. I think the advantage of a cumbersome camera is that it facilitates slowing down. It sounds like one should know a repair shop before buying one.
Thanks Jim, ironically another one of my backs has sprung a leak since I put this out, going to take both of mine in for a full service soon!
A great video giving an honest outlook on film cameras - that we're in the 21st century and engineering issues truly develop over the decades, and we should be trying to innovate in this space because we have so many good camera examples to learn from. Thanks for being a sobering outlook on film and these cameras!
Thanks Zak! There are loads of people innovating when it comes to attachments and such thankfully, would be super rad if one of the older companies came out with a proper new film camera though! They'd make a killing!
I didn't even finish the video. But your style won me over and immediately subscribed
Cheers Damian! I'm glad things appeal haha!
this was really great and honestly informative. oh, and I like your style with the video. really a pleasure to watch!
Thanks so much!
I’m one of those folks who was inspired to get one after watching youtubers like Willam Verbeek & Nick Carver etc.
I learned on film cameras back in the 90’s. But returning to it now was a brand new concept to me having rediscovered it early last year. After renting a RZ67 for a studio shoot, I absolutely fell in love and bought a RB67.
This one was TRULY mint from Japan. And I have to say, all the elements that make it a pain in the ass to use in the field, is exactly what makes it such a joy to use. This thing is fun as hell. I tend to use it on my Peak Design travel tripod on my photowalks because like you said, it takes quite a bit of patience when hand holding. But I do both.
This camera is really for those who love the process of slowing things way down and taking the time to get their shots right.
What Willam does not show in his videos is that process. Indeed he makes it look easier than it really is. I imagine that’s more for the entertainment value.
Subbed.
I'm glad you're enjoying it! The slow process really is part of the fun if you aren't expecting more from it. Especially once you've really gotten to know things, feels so nice having a strong command over what could be a clunky camera. Glad to hear it works well with the Peak Design tripods too, if my little Manfrotto ever gives out I'll definitely be picking up one of them, they look super nifty!
@@willysheepskin they are, but also super light and small to carry when walking around all day 😂
I bought mine almost 50 years ago. It spent 32 years as a studio camera. I have replaced light seals in both cameras (I also have a Pro S model) and have had new seals in 3 of the backs. The 127mm lens has also had the shutter timing adjusted. Not too bad for a camera this old. I am still using mine and, yes, it can be hand held. I recommend the RB67 over my Hasselblad 500CM as far as reliability is concerned.
Dude!!! Thank you so much for making this‼️
Great video William! I appreciate the honesty in the review as I agree with you and many others in the comments that a lot of reviews on CZcams tend to leave out rather negative qualities about these cameras given they are made many years ago. Needless to say I was fortunate enough to use a RB67 at my high school. The camera had no flaws to it and I experienced no issues of light leaks or anything of that sort. I did however find the camera to be rather temperamental some times, particularly as I was beginning to use the system. The various features would trigger and I would have to stop my shoot and sit down in order to figure out what had gone wrong with the camera. The only mechanical issue I found with my RB67 was the advance level on the film back came off completely. My opinion on this camera is that it takes brilliant images and the Mamiya glass is something else, but for the now extremely inflated price of the camera it is not worth the troubles it will bring. A 67 camera that uses a waist level view finder is not something unique to only the RB and RZ, so I think someone who is looking to purchase a 67 film camera should do more research into different film cameras not just on CZcams as there would be many different options that could take just as good of an image as an RB or RZ for a lot cheaper.
Thanks so much for the insight! Your mention of high school has reminded me that these were actually the cameras that my university kept on hand for students to learn medium format, because they had Hasselblad 500CM's before that all broke down super quickly and weren't as easily repaired. I haven't had the advance lever on any of my backs fall off just yet, but that likely means I have something to look forward to now haha! I agree that one can get a comparable camera that is less "hype" for much cheaper still these days.
really great review, talking about some of the things that are ACTUALLY interesting if one is considering a new camera. Bravo!
A great honest review! I'm glad you went into more downsides than just the usual "it's really heavy." I've owned my RB67 for about 6 months and no issues so far. I do think it's a little easier to use than you made it seem in your review. I was up to speed on the camera after 3 or 4 rolls, but maybe that's just me. The photos of the different light leaks and issues you showed were super helpful. I got a new film back and now I'm sure it's the springs that are worn out, rather than the seals. Great video, keep it up!
I'm glad you found it helpful, and that you're getting along well with your RB! It may well be easier to use than I've made it sound, my opinion is likely somewhat skewed by my miserable luck in keeping them running consistently and frustration with frequent break downs haha!
An excellent and balanced piece of work, advice and information. Keep it up!
Thank you!
amazing review dude, keep it up! looking forward for your next vids :)
One of the coolest camera review that I've watched.
Great work man!
Thanks dude! I saw your comment on my waterproof cam video but for some reason it disappears when I go to respond to it haha, I hope Amsterdam is alright currently, and that you end up with great underwater shots in the Italian summer!
@@willysheepskin maybe the big brother from YT is watching and cutting comments. Who knows. I was thinking about Mamiya but maybe will go first with Bronica.
this is a proper camera review! Looking forward to seeing more shots of rural SA
Busy sorting out part 2 currently!
This is probably the most accurate RB67 review. I have had the camera in the repair shop more than I've used it and the body seems fine. It's the lenses that are causing the issues so please, everyone who is contemplating this system, you want to buy something that has been tested, CLA'd .etc. because in all likelihood, you'll be spending extra money to repair it.
I'm glad to hear that you think my take on things was accurate! Sorry to hear about your issues though, the comments here seem to largely reflect your sentiment so your advice regarding the testing and CLA is definitely worth following!
@@willysheepskin it's all good. I'm willing to make the investments because I do feel confident in this system overall. I can't focus close to a subject with my Pentax like I can with the mamiya and the shutter sync due to the leaf shutters still make it a very, very impressive system. Pros outweigh the cons but every other video on this system talks about the pros only and the lenses in this system are complicated.
Excellent video. Much more informative from an actual use point of view than "other" CZcams reviewers... I have the RB67 Pro S system with the 90c, 50c and a 180 Z lens (the latter was picked up from a lot of 6 mistreated RZ systems I purchased for cheep a couple of years ago for song purely to resell). I also have a Hasselblad 500cm system as well, which I much prefer to use. I have waffled recently over the last several months whether or not to keep the RB setup, or sell it. If I do decide to sell the RB, I know down the road I would pay much more $$ today than what I paid for what I have. I think I will keep it and put that system into my street photography rotation if nothing else to get a good forearm workout. Keep up the good work young man.
Thank you for the kind words! I'm jealous of your Hassy, I borrowed my mates 501cx once with one of the later cfe lenses and an acute matte screen and it was the best experiences I've had with a medium format system. Think he's had his for like 4 years now too with no issues, I'd definitely go down Hasselblad path if I could wrap my head around the square frame business haha!
That was a very well balanced, well done review. Thank you. I've been shooting one for 18 and a half years now. I agree that it is big, and heavy, and awkward. It takes a lot of practice to shoot well with it, too. And yes, issues happen - sometimes depending on how well the camera was treated by previous owners (always respect the gear you're shooting with!). But in the end, it has rewarded me with some of my best images.
Thank you for the kind words Jason! You're definitely right about the impact of previous owners, I reckon my first body was put through the wringer and that's why its given me so many issues haha. Glad to hear you're still cracking with yours after 18 years, that is a long time indeed, I hope my RB's last half that long!
A great user review. I wish many were reviewers were so direct and honest. Obrigado!
Thanks Jose! I try to be as direct and honest as possible with all the long term reviews!
Hi there! I've been a very happy RB67 owner for about 6 months now (about a month after my last comment here). You were absolutely right in this video: if you're not willing to learn how to troubleshoot a camera, the RB67 is probably not for you.
I had to replace the light seals in the viewfinder, the 127mm lens I bought with it has a layer of haze/fungus in rear lens group, and remembering to check all of the interlocks when the shutter doesn't fire took some time, but the biggest issues I've had have been with the motorized 6x8 back that came with it. It's easy enough to use, but I figured out that it drains power from the batteries 24/7, which means they won't last nearly as long as you'd expect unless you take them out between shoots. And sometimes it "forgets" where it is and you need to switch it to multiple exposure to clear its interlock. Also, if you're in the studio and your strobes don't fire, your film advances automatically so you can't just re-take the shot with the strobes on. Ugh. One saving grace though: it will let you finish a roll with a mechanical dial even if the batteries die, but I'm not sure if it will let you load a new roll mechanically.
So, yeah, no show-stoppers, but it is a quirky beast. Lots of work, but I love it. (Although I definitely need to buy a purely mechanical 6x7 back or two at some point....)
Just ordered myself a Koni Omega 100 thanks to your fantastic review and recommendation. A 6X7 serviced medium format rangefinder for £80!
Amazing! Excellent that it's serviced too, the advance mechanism can be a bit quirky but at that price point it's really worth picking up just to play around with!
I love your honest reviews. I had one of these for about two weeks. Loved the image quality but after taking it on a 20 mile backpacking trip I sold it. So damn heavy! Made the Pentax 6x7 feel small in comparison.
Thank you! I took one on a hike in my "RB67 River Hike" video and I legitimately thought I might die of exhaustion at some points hahaha. Any future hikes will be with the mamiya 7 I reckon
This video you produced is GOD SENT! Thanks William.
From information perspective - really good. From visually perspective - pleasant to watch. Overall great job!
Thanks so much!
picked up a subscriber after this real review. most film camera youtubers just shoot on the rz67 or rb and give a one month review
I really appreciate this. I have a yashica 124g I’ve never used because I wanted an RB, but I think I’ll go use the camera I have and see what kind of work I can make. 🙏🏼
The Yashicas are rad! My first medium format cam was a Yashica 635 that I still have, lovely ole thing!
You're not being too harsh. The fact is, using an RB is a _process_ that you have to get ingrained in your brain and muscle memory. For all people say about it being a "tank", you can't abuse it or force it or you _will_ break it. Once the process becomes automatic, I think it's a blast to use! No denying it's a heavy, slow beast. If you want fast street photography, absolutely get a Pentax 67 or a Fuji rangefinder, because you're just going to embarrass yourself with an RB. 😂
I like mine because it fills a niche between 645 and large format. My Dad used one professionally in the '70s and '80s, and he brought it home a few times for me to try. That was all it took to get me hooked! I loved the interchangeable backs (he typically shot B&W and color at the same time, with Polaroids to check focus), and the rotating back. My Dad's camera had the shutter cocking lever come loose a couple of times and need repair, and the lenses needed CLA a few times, but that was it. He used a prism and only used it on a tripod in the studio. He bought his RB from the company when he retired, and still has it.
I bought my RBs used, and I guess I've been lucky, and haven't had an issue with either one. I use mine handheld, with the waist-level finder, but I've been shooting with a WLF for decades and don't have an issue with that aspect of it. I will usually reach for the 645 Super if I'm going on a hike or something, but the RB is great for slow, composed photography.
Cheers!
What is a WLF?
@@Bavubuka Sorry - Waist Level viewFinder. The kind you look down into (with the camera near your waist) rather than forward though like a “normal” camera. The image in a WLF is backwards and takes a bit of getting used to. 🙂
I guess I’m an RB-closet-wannabe-buyer. This was a real eye-opener. Thanks!
Highly, highly recommended - as a reality check for keeping one’s expectations congruent with reality.
The way the video is structured is highly innovative. Much better than average.
It is fun. I am using this thing of and on for about thirty years. I've sold and bought may be ten bodies over the years always wanting to find something better, and I've tried many many models. Naa.. I've returned to it always. I've been shooting large format too, but as an all around film camera, I vote for this one. We are looking for different things in art, and we are built differently. But as I, with average hands and 6 feet tall saw for the first time the RB, - it's became the buff, and continue to be :)
Best review ever!!!! 🤓 thanks for the honesty been debating on getting this camera for a while or just save up and get a mamiya 6 or 7
Thank you! I still reckon it's worth going for the RB if you're willing to repair it or have a way to have it checked out before buying, the mam6 and 7 are stellar cameras but somewhat different in terms of their intended use. Portraits for example, unless they're full body shots, are a bit tricky on the 7 both due to its 1m min focusing distance and it's parallax error, meaning things often don't come out framed as intended. If you want a camera for landscapes and such the mam7 is stellar though!
@@willysheepskin i feel ya honestly I like the RB the most for the waist level viewfinder so if I catch one for a good deal I’ll grab it but I definitely need a reliable camera don’t want have to visit the repair shop just about every time I take it out on a hike.
I buy my cameras AS IS condition so I can fix them and know exactly how it works when it dose break in the future
That’s a smart move Jake! I might give that a go with my next camera!
This is probably one of the most accurate videos on the rb67. I have 2 as well for about 5 years, and I owned that prism finder for about 3 of those years and probably used it 1-2 times. It’s way to big and heavy, the chimney finder is lighter, if you have a dark focusing screen (type E IIRC) but that’s it, still bulky and doesn’t reverse the image or give a higher viewpoint.
I bought the first one because I couldn’t afford a hasselblad and thought this would be a good alternative. Well I still can’t afford a hasselblad and oh boy how naive I was. Not to say one is better, but as you mentioned, this is designed to be a studio camera. It’s important to realize that before you can ignore it.
One point you mention that hit home with me was about being too overwhelmed working the camera that it made my photography suffer. At least in the beginning, and even sometimes nowadays if I’m being totally honest. But when it works, it’s phenomenal!
As you say this is not a camera you get because someone said they like it on CZcams.
Really enjoying your videos! 👍🏼
Thanks for such great feedback! Your take on the chimney finder is super interesting too, I have on occasion considered picking one up to try out, but I feel it would still have a significant effect on the form factor of the camera, which is a downside both in terms of transporting it in a bag and in actual carrying around use.
A friend who has four RB's he rotates between for daily professional work switched out his prism for the chimney recently, and unfortunately still found it too be too bulky as you mention with even less actual benefits than the prism.
Than you for your candor with regards to the cameras impact on your workflow as well, I also on occasion still find myself frustrated when comparing the ergonomics and usability to some of my other cameras in certain situations!
Refreshing review! Nice to hear both sides of the story
I'm glad you reckon so too!
I have had RB for 3 years without failure. After the purchase, I put RB in the service for a preventive inspection. I hope it lasts a long time. Thanks for the video.
I hope it lasts a long time too man, very happy for you that its getting along well after 3 years! I hope my proSD behaves for that long once the back has been sorted haha!
ty for this review! was thinking about picking this up for a while mainly because of literally everyone using them, and im glad I didnt fall into the hype! I knew I would hate how heavy it is anyway, but its also good to get a reminder that these cameras are really old and might malfunction. sometimes I forget these things are older than me lol
Great honest review. Rarely heard. Thanks.
It's been over a year since I own and shoot with RB67. It is not the first film or medium format film camera in my kit, but I knew already why I wanted one and it never left me disappointed. What you ate saying is true. My camera after I purchased it needed some small repair. It is really more difficult to operate than some other mefium format cameras and the weight and is not for everyday use. It is a professional tool and I use it only when I am "on a mission", just for joy I take any other camera. A hype in docial networking is mostly dectated by the accesability to 6x7 medium format and good reputation.
Camera is reliable and very nice indeed. What I cannot say about the lenses. Image wuality is perfect, but the built wuality of lenses is not on the level of the compettition. Most troubles I have eith lenses. They are vacuum cleaners, sucking in dust like crazy. Very prone to fogging.
Other pain was the film backs, if it is not pro SD back then be prepared to spend some hours to replace the light seals and there are a lot of them in a single film back.
A very accurate series of observations you have there! I love the description of the lenses as vacuum cleaners hahaha, it's so true! My pro SD back is my favorite back too, both for the darkslide storage and the light traps vs seals, even though there is a small cotton string seal in the darkslide port that has malfunctioned on mine causing it to have a slight leak. I actually had the seals on one of my pro S backs replaced just last week lol!
I think your review is spot on actually. I bought mine years ago because i wanted a cheap medium format camera. I paid a hundred dollars for it. now i see them going as high as 600! It takes amazing pictures,,,,when its working that is. Mine suffers from the same problems you mentioned. sometimes the leafs in the shutter stick, sometimes the mirror wont retract back down. If your trying to do street photography people will be nervous around you because it looks like your carrying a Howitzer. I can get just as good a shots with my Rollieflex if you dont mind square pictures and its much easier to operate and carry. The RB67 does beat the Rollei on its viewfinder. its huge and bright and focusing is easy. The rb67 was a professional camera and there was zero chance an amateur consumer was buying it. they were worked hard by pros and are now almost fifty years old. If you want big negatives than the rb67 is your friend. Just dont expect your friend to always be friendly back. Thx
I have my since 1990s , the key is to learn how to use it and to be gentle with it, maintaining clean always helps its 100% metal Not plastic, so it will wears out because of the use. I did 2 weddings and over 1000 photos on the latest 90s And gave the negatives to the brides as a gift. This camera takes Amazing good pictures.
Hi Luis, thanks for the insight! I clean mine fairly regularly, at least the easy to get to bits, I think my main issues with the first RB I picked up are really just because it was poorly maintained by the previous owner.
It does seem to be the case though that many new users picking them up today experience similar problems to mine as a result of poor maintenance by previous owners. I'm very glad to hear that you've kept yours running so long with proper maintenance, and wholeheartedly agree that they make truly excellent pictures!
Well articulated Will.. Getting my hands on one soon.. Gonna keep your thoughts in the back of my mind. Definitely gonna give the seals a once over.. Cheers
A very honest and totally accurate presentation on the RB.
When it works, it's Pure Magic, but when it misbehaves prepare to cry aloud 😅
I'm glad you reckon I got it right Thomas! A surprising number of new issues have popped up since I made this haha - they're always finding new ways to surprise the user these RB's!
This was a great and honest review. Newly subbed.
Thank you, glad to have you on board haha!
Thank you for the honest review !
You're welcome! :)
Watched this video and only realised at the end that you're Willy. Love your photo work. Spitting fax right here. Mad respect.
Thanks Harry, stoked that you stumbled upon it without associating my work to the video haha, means things are being shown to new people which is rad!
@@willysheepskin Totally dude. Been following your stuff for a few years but never checked youtube. Your eye for composition is striking and after watching some more videos it's been great to see how you work. All the best.
@@harrytalay301 thanks so much for the kind words! Have only been putting stuff out on here for a couple of months now so you haven’t missed much fortunately haha, glad that the videos could give you some insights! Happy to answer any questions you may have too, always keen to help
@@willysheepskin Cheers!
Great video! Love the Negative Feedback influence too lol
One of the best camera review that I've watch.
Great work man!
Thanks so much!
I love your videos and this was a great review, I recently picked up a couple rb's for a really good price and there is something fun in the challenge of using them. Mine are from a Photo studio and well used , no problems yet. Maybe they were serviced regularly though? I have a 220 back that is beat to hell and it works brilliantly. I thought I would hate it coming from a P67. PS I have a pro s and I can take double exposures accidentally so that is something that is broken I guess. Keep up the videos they are really enjoyable!
Thanks so much! I think whether they break or not is just luck of the draw really for the first little while, but they do definitely end up needing regular servicing. My mate got a fairly well used one and the film advance lever on his back popped off yesterday! He had to glue it back on with the make up artists nail glue to continue the shoot ahaha. My pro S also had the double exposure issue when I first got it, but it went away after I had it serviced properly so I reckon it is quite a common issue!
Thank you very much for this video. I stupidly bought a Kowa 6 about a year ago and I regularly run into the exact same problems that you've described about the rb 67 and I have no desire to drop even more money than I did on the Kowa on something that will irritate and frustrate me when I'm just trying to go out and take pictures. I'm gonna stick with my Moskva 5 for a bit longer I think.
Cost and size is why I opted for keeping things simple for medium format and going with the Braun Gloria, but the Koni-Omega is definitely the next camera I'll buy!
I couldn't agree more with this!!!
Good job!
Crazy how videos like these pop up as I finish buying all the parts for my RB67. It's cool though, I like the mechanical side of this camera, fidgeting with the camera to make that perfect shot makes me feel like I know what I'm doing lol
Thank you for being the only honest guy about the RB System :D
You're most welcome!
100% agree.
Love my RB's but would recommend people start with a M645 or similar and work their way up to get used to the temperamental nature of the Mamiya system.
I own several Mamiya's, the RB67 being the first one I bought back in around 2015. I also have a M645j, and a Mamiya C330. my little M645 has never given me any trouble to date. a wonderful camera to use. the RB67 is a beast, but is a beautiful camera to use. the only issue I've had with mine since I've owned has been the usual lights seals needing replacing, which I did myself with a kit I purchased on Ebay. the only other problem I had was with one film back having the advance lever fall off. other than that its been a very reliable camera. any other little issues have simply been me now learning enough about the system before using it and making beginners mistakes.
Back in the day I was a Hasselblad shooter, still have my Hassies and they have never given me any bother.
When, a few years ago, I started shooting film again, I picked up a couple of Mamiya RB67 Pro SD, a Pro S and rather a large selection of C and K/L glass, including the more modern version of the prism finder and a LH grip, all of which were in tip-top condition for cheap. I was lucky to get into the system before the prices started to shoot up. One camera had been a studio back-up and never been out of the box!!
Whilst the cameras are a pain to use, especially when compared to the Hasselblad, the image quality makes it all worth while. Perhaps you were unlucky and picked up gear that had had a hard life and just needed a bit of love, after all, not everyone thinks to service their gear.
Your video certainly highlights the fact that using 'vintage gear' is not without its problems, not something that is often mentioned. When I started picking up, and building up, a Mamiya system, I chose the RB over the RZ on the fact that it was fully manual, the one weakness of the RZ was those 80's electronics!, and the price difference.
Thanks so much for your insights Baxter! Very jealous of your studio backup RB haha, that’s the dream!
I’m sure most of the issues with my first RB were down to it having a hard life, it did seem to have been through some tough times when I picked it up haha!
My prosd which I got near mint has been very well behaved besides the back jamming on occasion, but the image quality is indeed worth it in the end! I hope to own a Hasselblad someday when I’m a wealthy chap haha
Pp
Well balanced and insightful review man. Completely agree with most of your points as well-although I own the RZ myself. Just praying it’s going to hold out for a while 😂 props to the honesty and thought that went into making this video (need more of that on CZcams these days!)
Thanks man! I'm still occasionally considering picking up an RZ if I can find a nice one, maybe someday when I can afford to own another electronic camera to worry about, the Mamiya 7 and Contax G2 give me plenty sleepless nights already though hahaha
@@willysheepskin the Mamiya 7 is tempting indeed. I also would love to use / shoot on a Leica one day. Such are the dreams of all men who take pictures I suppose!
@@oneill.onfilm Haha yeah man I really love my mam7, always keeping an eye out for a steal of a leica too just in case!
Thanks for this honesty
haha, thanks for that honest video! I own my camera for just over a year, and GOD it's already cost me tons of tears and sweat and extra money for repair :D ..and I love it, it's a tough love tho. but as a beginner in analogue photography (almost immediately jumped into medium format), there is no other camera that taught me more about the photography than this one.
Ah I'm sorry to hear about the repairs!I have a lot of tough love for mine too, I still use it as my main camera at the moment but it's always got something new to throw at me haha. One of the springs in the viewfinder recently popped out and now it stabs me on occasion - not fun lol.
Well done you for starting out with the medium format stuff, it definitely forces you to learn fast!
Glad that there appears a fresh video on rb67 when I am just searching for it
I hope you enjoy it!
@@willysheepskin like it very much! Both the content and the vibe lol
@@fanyeyuan Cheers! Shoot me an email if you have any questions about the cam, always keen to help!
Yeah review on point...I got two of em, one as a parts camera as I had the first repaired as the mirror was stuck. Sad to here the issues, so far it been good to me
Great that you've taken preventative action Rob! I hope yours continues to be good to you!
This was a great video, thank you so much for all the information I really appreciate the straightforward approach of this review. Would it be possible for you to do a review on the Pentax 67 or mamiya c330 at some point?
Cheers Rio! Looking to get my hands on a Pentax 67 sometime soon! Wouldn’t be able to do a long term review on it but could definitely have a play around haha!
Very good video. I have never owned a RB/RZ, you explained it well, it’s definitely a great studio camera. I think the 6x6 is about the largest format medium format camera for carrying around. The Fuji GL or GW series is ok as well.
For portraits and some landscape; the RB67/RZ can be great with its larger negatives. There are also options such as moving into large format with 4x5 or 8x10 and using roll backs.
The advantage of the RB67 is that it’s mechanical like the Hasselblad 500 cameras, they can be more serviceable. If one buys an electronic camera such as the RZ67 or Bronica SQ series, then repairs may not be as easy or possible.
This is good to know while I'm deciding what medium format camera to buy!
Cheers Iain! Feel free to let me know if you have any questions and such, always keen to help someone get the right camera for them
What’s a better alternative?
You nailed nearly every aspect of this camera.
Thanks man! Feel free to point out any further insights you may have in the comments here too, we’ve got some awesome tips from other users over the last few months!
@@willysheepskin Maybe one thing I can add: Just to look for the newer Waist Level finder. The first iteration of the Mamiya RB67 often do came with a waist level finder thad does not close completly the gap if you do flip the magnifier.
@@p.9608 That's a great tip! The first finders also have that hasselblad-style separate plate flip up situation going which I'm not a fan of at all
Found your video last night and really appreciate the honesty in your review. I currently have a M645J with a non-metered prism finder and thought I’d “step up” to a RB with a WLF because I can’t really justify having two MF systems…
Now the obvious improvement of the RB over a 645 system seems a bit less nice due to the potential issues you mention. Maybe the 645 with a WLF is a bit more hassle-free even if the neg is a bit smaller?
so many of these problems happened with my rb67.
thank you for not making me feel the unluckiest mamiya owner. hahaha
still, i love this difficult camera.
I love it too! Even though a decent amount of new issues have arisen since I made this video haha, I think the cameras heard me saying things about them and didn't take too kindly to it!
Excellent video, thanks for sharing!
Thank you for watching!
Very helpful! I've been torn between a RB67, Mamiya 645, and a Pentax 67. I usually shoot with my Canon 5d Mark IV but I've been wanting to get a good film camera to add to my work. I currently have a TLR medium format but I want something with interchangeable lenses and something easy to shoot quickly and easy carry around. I like to shoot fashion, portraits, travel, street, and architecture and I miss shooting film. I really don't want anything cumbersome because even if it takes amazing photos, I know myself, it will just become a paper weight. The Pentax 67 is way more expensive but maybe that's a better fit for me.
Also love the quirky humour in your video! LOL
I'd go with the 645. Lighter, more shots per roll, & the modularity of the system is great
Pentax 6x7 and a Pentax 67. I have had 2 for 7 years with no problems.
I have sold them now because the price went through the roof and I was getting old and needing the money.
I use a Yashica Mat from 1957 now and a Kiev 6c slr with the 90mm Vega 2.8 lens and waist level finder. with the clever mirror system in the finder to enable focusing at eyelevel.
Glad to hear it! I've always really enjoyed my yashica 635 and am definitely going to pick up a Pentax someday when I find one for the right price, having a 6x7 SLR would solve a lot of the struggles I have with my current 6x7 lineup.
came for the knowledge, subbed for the sass, very much enjoyed your accent, extra points all around ~~~
ahah cheers Kali! Welcome aboard!
@@willysheepskin thanks very much! :)
thank you for your vid bro!! alot of other “tutorials” suck!!!
Hahah you really destroyed every hipster out there walking around with their new vintage camera. My first camera was an Olympus OM back in 1998 and then a Nikon F, a Rolleiflex TLR, a Leicaflex SL2, Nikon FM etc.. All of them are still working today but after many fixes and lots of missed photo frames due to similar problems you mention on your video. If you want vintage camera/car whatever, then be prepared to put time and money on it, that's something other CZcams channels hardly mention. An on top of that they drive the prices up for no reason, just for a stupid hype. Thanks for doing that and putting things back on their right perspective. Look at this Mamiya 7 prices! They cost more than a used car and go bad all the time..
Very fair and funny, when you think and or plan on getting a system warts and all you need to think about what the heck you are doing. I have RB67, RZ67, Mamiya 645 super tl, Mamiya AFD plus the Digital Back and Fuji GX680 to name a few. Yeah I do like my film stuff and I'm a bit of a camera nutter due to picking up a 16mm movie camera. Love what your doing please keep it up this stuff is fun and you have to be just a little nuts.
Wow that's an awesome collection Anthony! I've always been super curious about the GX680- the idea of having movements on a medium format system has an immense appeal haha! Jealous of the 16mm cine cam too, I have some mates that use Bolexes and they seem so fun! Thank you also for the kind words, I'm glad you're enjoying stuff!
You are right, this camera is for slow work and it is a system you have to learn. I bought one last year and found a bunch of quirks that unless you are using this all the time you will forget how to troubleshoot. I specifically picked up a ProSD with a ProSD back so I would not have to worry about light seals wearing out.
Hi! Huge fan of the videos but I have something to add about the prism finders for any viewers. Yes, it is heavy, also yes, for about 2 years now I have fully handheld this camera, even backpacked with it with the prism finder. The key is purchasing one of the left hand grips for the camera. Whether the shutter action works on it or it's just a stick to the left of the camera it is an absolute lifesaver that makes hand holding it not only possible, but easy. And at this point I wouldn't even use the waist level finder without said grip.
Ahoy Luke! Really glad you dig the videos! And really glad to hear that someone manages with that prism haha! It's always proven too much for me, but that left hand grip suggestion of yours might actually be the call! I got to use a mate of mines rb with a Metz the other day and having a handle to hold onto does make things somewhat easier - the bulk of a setup like that still wouldn't do well in my lil camera bag, but in terms of ease of use I reckon you're 100% right! Thanks for the tip, shall have to give it a proper go sometime and perhaps retract my statement hahah!
I've had mine for less than 6 months and I've repaired a lens and film back.
Ah sorry to hear that man, I hope it stays in perfect working order for a while now!
loved the honesty in your video , also got subscribed because of the position of the F3 in your perfection scale haha (i have 2 f3) , thats totally True about this old monsters , i got an RZ67 and ... fires but it wont trigger the lens speed so i have to downgrade the lenses to a RB67 K/L Lens to finally make it work , but with pandemic i had experienced issues ordering from japan =( .
Thanks Eduardo! I'm glad you noted the position of the F3 haha! It really is the greatest camera I own, It's never given me an issues in the 4 years I've had it and I mean it's light seals are even in tatters and it barely leaks! Sorry to hear about your RZ, glad that the k/l lenses are a workaround at least, I try to avoid ordering from Japan wherever possible because it's such a process dealing with importation and customs around here, I hope everything finds it's way to you eventually though!
Great video. I have a Mamiya C330s and absolutely love it. Easy to use, light, and I love the images. I had to replace the light seals on mine, but with fewer gaps to seal it's very straightforward. Both of my lenses work fine, but I imagine that in general they have the same issues as RB lenses since they both use leaf shutters.
I'm interested in getting an RB myself, primarily to play around with different backs. I definitely understand the shortcomings of the RB relative to the C series, but I also feel a bit confined by the square image format. Plus, I did an Instax conversion on an older C33 that, while fun, is *totally* impractical because the C series doesn't have interchangeable backs; I ended up having to lift the viewfinder and ground glass and now it's probably as unwieldy as an RB.
I had a C330. that camera is everything, but not light!
@@arcp_ Well...light is a relative term. Compared to the RB67 I picked up after making this comment it seems virtually weightless....
:)
@@bencushwa8902 that's true :)
A realistic camera review! How unusual ... but refreshing as well
Thanks Ian!
Interesting point of view and we all have different experiences. I have had good luck with the RB67 and at least on these if one component goes bad it is almost cheaper to just replace, rather than repair it (back, lens, finder, body, rotating adapter, etc...). On the Pentax 67 however I have looked at many locally and have yet to find one without a winding issue or decent frame spacing. With the mirror, film advance and shutter all being in the main body unit repairing a Pentax 67 costs about what a new one is, which is about 2 or more times what an RB67 sells for. I owned a Pentax 67 when they were new (I'm old) but just can't afford to try one now knowing what any repair or CLA would cost. Both are great systems and both are a hit or miss proposition when buying
Great video and a sobering one into the bargain. Well, after considering the RB67 and other candidates, I bought a Fujica GL690 (a.k.a. the "Texas Leica") last month plus three lenses - all in near-mint condition. Finding good examples of these is very tricky and not cheap as virtually all have to come from Japan as I don't think they were ever sold in Europe when new. I have only shot two rolls so far (i.e. just 16 frames!) but the image quality is outstanding compared with 35 mm or even with 6 x 6. The rangefinder seems accurate and is easy to view and, while the rig is not light by any means, the ergonomics make it quite acceptable to carry around and to use hand-held. Plus it is very quiet and smooth in operation. Nevertheless, your tales of woe are a timely warning to be on the lookout for issues, especially as the GL690 camera body is a feast of interlocks preventing inadvertent exposure of the film when changing lenses, etc. Mercifully, the original user manual is available free online as a .pdf. Without it, one could be all at sea. I think we medium types generally need a fair share of mechanical luck.
Perhaps it’s been mentioned. But both the RZ and it’s older brother the RB were the professional tools . They required routine care inspection and maintenance.
They were not designed for the casual to pro enthusiast occasional paid gig type of photography.
I bought my RZ from BH in mid 90s for portrait work. 5 to 10 rolls a weekend, I was just a part-timer.
I believe I had it serviced twice. The others guys who had both RZ and RB’s who were hard working pro’s had their gear serviced several times.
Now imagine that gear 25 years or more older, insane.
I appreciate your video, you and others make me so nostalgic for the 90’s.
But honestly if I were doing photography with any real seriousness I would get a Fuji gfx.
But I get it, you are in it for the experience, and I hope that you get to enjoy many years of it.
the lack of drip hype in this is like a water fountain in the desert. keep making videos.
I enjoyed your presentation style. Good information. Perhaps I watched this video a day late and a dollar short. I just put some money down on a RB67. It is coming with the 90mm, 127mm, and 180mm lens. A prism viewfinder, but not the prism viewfinder with the exposure meter in it.
I watched another video on the Mamiya RB67 where the presenter recommended that when you store the lens, to trip the lens to take tension off of the shutter. Not having yet had any personal experience, I don't know if that could solve the problems with the lenses, but I'm sure that it couldn't hurt.
Thinking about the cameras that Ansel Adams or Edward Weston would take all over the country and the process needed to take photos with their equipment, I'm sure that the RB67 is not quite that time consuming to use compared to their cameras. If I wanted to take great photos with little effort, I'd use my digital cameras. Thanks for your presentation. Enjoy
Thanks John! I reckon if you're keen enough to pick one up with a set of lenses you'll likely be committed enough to sort out any issues that it may have upon arrival! I hope you get use out of the prism as well, if one is willing to lug it around it can be useful in select scenarios, although extra cumbersome.
That tip on storing the lenses is a good one, although my technician eventually told me it's simpler to fix the tension issue than it is to fix the grease build up on the shutter blades, which is apparently more likely to happen if the lens is stored tripped. So I'm on the fence about it. I switch storage between tripped lenses and ones left primed just so that I'm addressing the risk of both the grease and exhausted mechanisms haha!
Good point regarding the large format cameras and their limitations, I reckon if you're going into RB use with that mindset you'll easily overcome any obstacles that may present themselves!
XLNT video William, you pretty much summed up my frustration with the RB67 and oil contaminated lenses. Just burned up 3 rolls of color film and when scans arrived, they were OE by at least 2+ F/stops. I started using the term "Photography is supposed to be fun" But as you said, using the RB67 with all of it's issues, is NOT fun. A shame.... At least the B&W shot with my NIKON F5 was perfect and Model is happy. The RB and lenses and film backs are now in a plastic tub in closet. Undecided how to proceed with it at this point. JUST NOT FUN TO USE. Thanks again!
It’s honest, it’s real and much appreciated. Others just make it seem like it’s a cake walk and that these machines are tanks, solid metal constructions that pass the test of time… they are over 50 years old…
Well, I kinda wish I watched this video yesterday. Just ordered a RB67, hope mine works 😂 love the content.
Where did you get your RB repaired?