I recently bought an ETRSi and received it 2 days ago, your videos Jonathan are a godsend. Thank you so much for your informative videos and easy to understand instructions. I love how all the interlocks throughout the platform stop you from doing anything silly. I am looking forward to many years of joy with my new-to-me ETRSi!
Just bought my first medium format camera today!!! The Zenza Bronica ETRS. So excited I came here immediately to learn everything I can about it. Thank you so much!!!!
Great video, got my bronica out of the cupboard now I'm retired. Couldn't get the lens off. Thought it was damaged so found your video. Didn't have the shutter cocked. It's been a long time since I've put a film through it, so thanks. 11.00 am 9/12/2024, Australia
This camera is often touted as the perfect graduation from 35mm. But, as someone who has shot 6x7 medium format for about 5 years now, I'm honestly very attracted to it as well. My Pentax 6x7 died on me a few weeks ago, and I decided now was as good a time as ever to try something new. 645 is still a very high-fidelity print (still more than twice the size of a 35 frame), and this camera is almost 3 times lighter than that beast of a Pentax. Really appreciate the video! Think this is the one :)
Have this camera in chrome and black. Love using it with the open viewfinder. The speed grip makes the camera bulky, and I prefer cupping the camera in my hand. Good substitute for 35mm, as a walk around camera. Waist level finder is magic.
Very clear and informative video, watched it over and over while i was waiting for my eBay Christmas present to myself to arrive which it now has. Got a few rolls of FP4 and can't wait to get out and start shooting with it!
Was gonna buy an etrs until i found out the film back alone would be another $100+. I ended up getting an etr c that comes with a 120 film back because they’re not removable. A beautiful camera
Don’t think you mentioned it in the video but be interested in a video about doing longer exposures than 8 seconds on the ETRS. There’s a switch on the lens that closes the lens that can be used (as I understand it) in conjunction with the shutter button to do do bulb exposures. I’ve read the instructions but seeing someone do it would be very helpful.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange Yeah, I know the T setting, and read the manual but they aren’t the best lol I’ll have a play without any film in and see how I get on 👍🏻
4:3 (this camera and many digital sensors) and 3:2 (35mm) are very much favoured rectangle ratios. Not many people are fond of 1:1 (6x6) so when it comes to 120 roll film this camera is a great choice, (unless you want to go all the way to 6x9)
I have three, ETRS, SQ-A and the AM. I love the feel of the ETRS. Can you give me any information on the various color rings that are on the lens for the ETR series?
The green ring shows it’s a later lens. The E II version is supposed to be an improvement over the MC although, filter size aside, I’ve never seen any significant difference.
I appreciate your response regarding the color circle on the lens. That seems to make sense. I also looked to see if you did anything on extension tubes. I have the E-14 and the E-28 for the ETRS. It seems that you can't stack the tubes together. I can install them on the body and attach the 75mm lens, but they will stack onto each other. Is there a reason for this? I can't find any information on this if it is an issue.
Excellent and thorough overview but I thought I'd read somewhere that untold damage can occur if a lens is removed without first cocking the shutter. I believe you said that lens removal is impossible without cocking the shutter. Which is it, please? Thanks.
All cameras with shutters in an interchangeable lens (so Bronica, Mamiya, Rollei, Hasselblad etc) have an interlock to prevent the lens being removed without the shutter being cocked.
great video just got a etrsi can you tell me where the asa setting is when using the waist level finder iv got the AE11 finder and thats on the side but for the life of me a cant find it on the camera dos the camera know what asa film your loading on when using the waist finder kind regards steve
I’ve been trying to figure out how to set the lens to t mode and can’t move the lever from a to t. Am I meant to unscrew the setscrew and then move it?
Very informative video, thanks for sharing. I do have a question. I lost the button to press to change the lens on my ETRS. Do you know where I can purchase one? My searching the Internet seemed hopeless. Thanks.
Both very good cameras. The Bronica has a leaf shutter so if you use flash that's probably the one to go for. Otherwise handle both and see which which you prefer.
hello ! in a local photography store i found an ETR SP model. u know anything about this model ? i cant find any information on the internet...is it worth buyin it ?
Remove the battery and give it a try. The 1/500 shutter speed is mechanical and doesn't require power. However, other components like a metered prism will still need it.
Silly question but when using a jon metered prism how to you know what ISO you are shooting at. Couldn't you be over/ under exposing every shot. Or do you just change the aperture and shutter speed based of an external light meter?
Yes, many Bronica users will use a handheld meter. Bronica cameras (along with Hasselblad, Mamiya, Rollei etc) aren’t generally used quickly so this isn’t an issue for most. Otherwise use a prism with built in metering.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange Yeah medium format makes me think a lot more about the photos in taking. My 35mm is all automatic (apart from focusing) and it is definitely great for talking spontaneous photos. But since getting my ETRS I haven't even finished a single roll because I'm just not so sure about taking photos with it. It doesn't help that I've only got a 105mm lens that feels quite strange for anything but portraits.
Wondering if you have any experience switching between film backs. When switching the backs do I need wind the film advance crank on the new back even though the film had already been advanced previously? I’m afraid if I crank the film advance it will make me lose a frame.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange so let’s say I have a black and white film back on the camera I take a shot and wind the crank to advance to my next frame. I take the back off and switch to a color film and once again crank the film advance. I take a shot and advance my film. I once again switch back to my black and white film. since the black and white film was advanced previously if I crank once more does that advance the film once again essentially skipping a frame?
@@WorldwideCameraExchange I ended up just taking the plunge and tried it… for future reference to anyone with the same question you crank the film advance after taking a shot as usual. At this point you can take the film back off and attach your second film back. You will crank again, however this crank does not actually advance the film but puts the camera into shooting position. You can now take a shot with the second film back.
I’d recommend always advancing the film before removing the lens or back. It doesn’t matter if you don’t - the cameras interlocks will protect you from double exposing (not the case with Hasselblad) or fogging the film - but following the same procedure will improve your workflow.
Yes, interlocks on Bronica will prevent double exposures. I’d recommend always advancing after each shot so you’ll be ready to take the next, or change the lens or back. It’s a personal thing but I find operational consistency improves my workflow.
Thanks for this video, you mentioned etrs and etrsi are interchangeable when it comes to the backs, is it the same for the etr? I’m looking at purchasing an etr for a good price. Thanks
Used one as a working photographer in the 1980s. Can't recommend the ETRS too highly. Fantastic camera. Excellent quality and reliable.
Totally agree!
I recently bought an ETRSi and received it 2 days ago, your videos Jonathan are a godsend. Thank you so much for your informative videos and easy to understand instructions. I love how all the interlocks throughout the platform stop you from doing anything silly. I am looking forward to many years of joy with my new-to-me ETRSi!
Glad you like them! Enjoy your Bronica.
Just bought my first medium format camera today!!! The Zenza Bronica ETRS. So excited I came here immediately to learn everything I can about it. Thank you so much!!!!
Glad it was useful. Enjoy your Bronica!
Great video, got my bronica out of the cupboard now I'm retired. Couldn't get the lens off. Thought it was damaged so found your video. Didn't have the shutter cocked. It's been a long time since I've put a film through it, so thanks. 11.00 am 9/12/2024, Australia
Glad you got it sorted!
This camera is often touted as the perfect graduation from 35mm. But, as someone who has shot 6x7 medium format for about 5 years now, I'm honestly very attracted to it as well. My Pentax 6x7 died on me a few weeks ago, and I decided now was as good a time as ever to try something new. 645 is still a very high-fidelity print (still more than twice the size of a 35 frame), and this camera is almost 3 times lighter than that beast of a Pentax. Really appreciate the video! Think this is the one :)
Thanks - glad it was useful!
Just bought an ETRSi, this video is great. Many thanks.
Thanks. Enjoy the Bronica - they’re great cameras.
Have this camera in chrome and black. Love using it with the open viewfinder. The speed grip makes the camera bulky, and I prefer cupping the camera in my hand. Good substitute for 35mm, as a walk around camera. Waist level finder is magic.
Thanks for commenting
Very clear and informative video, watched it over and over while i was waiting for my eBay Christmas present to myself to arrive which it now has. Got a few rolls of FP4 and can't wait to get out and start shooting with it!
Thanks - appreciated. Enjoy your Bronica!
I love this camera ... Beautiful Piece of hardware ... It produces beautiful images ❤😊
Very informative, thank you for the video, I have the ERTsi and the ERT, I like both another difference between them is the mirror lock on the ERTsi
Thank you for your comment. Yes, the ETRSi has a mirror lock-up. The ETR, ETRC and ETRS don’t.
Was gonna buy an etrs until i found out the film back alone would be another $100+. I ended up getting an etr c that comes with a 120 film back because they’re not removable. A beautiful camera
Yep, great cameras.
Don’t think you mentioned it in the video but be interested in a video about doing longer exposures than 8 seconds on the ETRS. There’s a switch on the lens that closes the lens that can be used (as I understand it) in conjunction with the shutter button to do do bulb exposures. I’ve read the instructions but seeing someone do it would be very helpful.
The Bronica E series lenses have a T setting for long exposures. Unscrew or pull out the lock and slide to activate. It’s very straightforward.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange Yeah, I know the T setting, and read the manual but they aren’t the best lol I’ll have a play without any film in and see how I get on 👍🏻
4:3 (this camera and many digital sensors) and 3:2 (35mm) are very much favoured rectangle ratios. Not many people are fond of 1:1 (6x6) so when it comes to 120 roll film this camera is a great choice, (unless you want to go all the way to 6x9)
It’s a personal preference. I’d recommend whichever format most suits your photographic style.
The hand grip is essential.
Yes, with the prism in particular, it makes a significant difference.
I have one with a Polaroid back great camera better than any digital camera
I have three, ETRS, SQ-A and the AM. I love the feel of the ETRS. Can you give me any information on the various color rings that are on the lens for the ETR series?
The green ring shows it’s a later lens. The E II version is supposed to be an improvement over the MC although, filter size aside, I’ve never seen any significant difference.
I appreciate your response regarding the color circle on the lens. That seems to make sense. I also looked to see if you did anything on extension tubes. I have the E-14 and the E-28 for the ETRS. It seems that you can't stack the tubes together. I can install them on the body and attach the 75mm lens, but they will stack onto each other. Is there a reason for this? I can't find any information on this if it is an issue.
Yes, you’re correct. They can’t be combined.
Excellent and thorough overview but I thought I'd read somewhere that untold damage can occur if a lens is removed without first cocking the shutter. I believe you said that lens removal is impossible without cocking the shutter. Which is it, please? Thanks.
All cameras with shutters in an interchangeable lens (so Bronica, Mamiya, Rollei, Hasselblad etc) have an interlock to prevent the lens being removed without the shutter being cocked.
Really useful thanks for this.
Glad it was useful!
Muy buen vídeo. Gracias. Me ha sido de gran ayuda.
Glad it was useful - thanks
great video just got a etrsi can you tell me where the asa setting is when using the waist level finder iv got the AE11 finder and thats on the side but for the life of me a cant find it on the camera dos the camera know what asa film your loading on when using the waist finder kind regards steve
There’s no metering without the AEII so it doesn’t need one (if using TTL flash the ASA is set on the flash adaptor).
How would you store the camera???
ua-cam.com/video/SVSx7f280YU/v-deo.html
Sorry just gone through the comments and found a light meter might come in handy lol
Yes! Look at the Bronica AEII or AEIII
I’ve been trying to figure out how to set the lens to t mode and can’t move the lever from a to t. Am I meant to unscrew the setscrew and then move it?
Yes, loosen the screw and the switch will slide.
Very informative video, thanks for sharing. I do have a question. I lost the button to press to change the lens on my ETRS. Do you know where I can purchase one? My searching the Internet seemed hopeless. Thanks.
Your best option is to speak to local repairers. Somebody may may a scrap Bronica ‘donor’ body.
Very detailed review. May I ask, which would be a better camera?, an ETRSi, or a Mamiya 645 Pro?, thanks.
Both very good cameras. The Bronica has a leaf shutter so if you use flash that's probably the one to go for. Otherwise handle both and see which which you prefer.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange Cheers Jonathan
hello ! in a local photography store i found an ETR SP model. u know anything about this model ? i cant find any information on the internet...is it worth buyin it ?
Bronica made quite a few limited edition cameras. Very few people collect Bronica so they generally don’t sell for a premium.
Bronica made quite a few limited edition cameras. Very few people collect Bronica so they generally don’t sell for a premium.
When you shoot it at 1/500s does the camera not use the battery at all?
Remove the battery and give it a try. The 1/500 shutter speed is mechanical and doesn't require power. However, other components like a metered prism will still need it.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange thank you
Silly question but when using a jon metered prism how to you know what ISO you are shooting at. Couldn't you be over/ under exposing every shot. Or do you just change the aperture and shutter speed based of an external light meter?
Yes, many Bronica users will use a handheld meter. Bronica cameras (along with Hasselblad, Mamiya, Rollei etc) aren’t generally used quickly so this isn’t an issue for most. Otherwise use a prism with built in metering.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange Yeah medium format makes me think a lot more about the photos in taking. My 35mm is all automatic (apart from focusing) and it is definitely great for talking spontaneous photos. But since getting my ETRS I haven't even finished a single roll because I'm just not so sure about taking photos with it.
It doesn't help that I've only got a 105mm lens that feels quite strange for anything but portraits.
A Bronica 75mm E or PE lens might be better for general work.
Wondering if you have any experience switching between film backs. When switching the backs do I need wind the film advance crank on the new back even though the film had already been advanced previously? I’m afraid if I crank the film advance it will make me lose a frame.
Personally I always recock before removing the back or lens.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange so let’s say I have a black and white film back on the camera I take a shot and wind the crank to advance to my next frame. I take the back off and switch to a color film and once again crank the film advance. I take a shot and advance my film. I once again switch back to my black and white film. since the black and white film was advanced previously if I crank once more does that advance the film once again essentially skipping a frame?
@@WorldwideCameraExchange I ended up just taking the plunge and tried it… for future reference to anyone with the same question you crank the film advance after taking a shot as usual. At this point you can take the film back off and attach your second film back. You will crank again, however this crank does not actually advance the film but puts the camera into shooting position. You can now take a shot with the second film back.
I’d recommend always advancing the film before removing the lens or back. It doesn’t matter if you don’t - the cameras interlocks will protect you from double exposing (not the case with Hasselblad) or fogging the film - but following the same procedure will improve your workflow.
Yes, interlocks on Bronica will prevent double exposures. I’d recommend always advancing after each shot so you’ll be ready to take the next, or change the lens or back. It’s a personal thing but I find operational consistency improves my workflow.
On my etrsi, there are two levers by the crank. One is at 12 o’clock and the other is about 2 o’clock. Can u tell me what there are? Thanks
Multiple exposure and mirror lock-up levers.
@@WorldwideCameraExchange thanks for the info. You have a great channel
Happy to help - glad the channel’s useful.
Thanks for this video, you mentioned etrs and etrsi are interchangeable when it comes to the backs, is it the same for the etr? I’m looking at purchasing an etr for a good price. Thanks
Thanks for commenting. The Bronica E series cameras all have the same back fitting so backs can be swapped between models.
So there is no B shutter speed in this camera?😵💫 Not worth it at all then.
Slow speed times to 8 seconds. Beyond that you can use the T setting.