Very thorough review Karin. Pro tip: if you every forget to return the mirror lock up switch to the off position, don’t just take a blind shot. Switch it off, then stitch the double exposure on and take a photo with the lens cap on, and advance. Then turn off double exposure, and take the lens cap off and you are free to shoot without having to waste a frame! Happy shooting! I also recommend the 135W back, love mine.
Thanks Andrew! Really cool that you pointed out this tip regarding the mirror lock up, because I took me aaaages to have this idea on my own. I must have waisted about 5 or 6 frames because of that. I also included this as a con in the video ad explained this little workaround with the lens cap + multiple exposure method, but finally decided to cut this part out because I felt like I did not do a good job explaining and the video was long enough anyway. But I am sure that more people ran or will run into this problem before so I will pin your comment so that other people can read up on it :)
@@KarinMajoka you can just crop a 120 frame into a pano view, rather than buy the 135w back. 135 and 120 both have the same width in the frame. ... Unless you want the 135w back to shoot 135 film not available in 120. Or you prefer to have a few extra photos on a single roll. The 135 backs are priced as collector items, because they are a little uncommon.
Could you also just pop the film back off, turn off mirror lock up, wind, then re-attach? Should be good to go, because it will reset the mirror and shutter and the film is already wound? Not great if it’s windy/rainy or anything, but I keep getting worried I’ll mess up all the levers and forget what state I’m in, so was trying to figure out a way to reset that without messing with them more, or risking a frame. 😅
Oh, right, eastblockboy - I almost forgot that you used my Bronica to shoot street on slide film (crazy, but also crazy good combo!) 😬 thanks, as always! ⚡️
The neat thing about the leaf shutter besides it being so silent is that because of the way it’s built, it will sync with a flash on all the shutter speeds on the camera, so that will help out a bit when shooting with flash.
Yes, that’s something very important I forgot to mention! I don’t really shoot with flash but if you are into studio portraits the leaf shutter is definitely a big plus!
Actually, the big advantage is balancing flash with sunlight in outdoor portraits. Way back when, the cloth focal plane shutters had sync speeds of 1/30 or 1/60, so the leaf shutter syncing at 1/400 or 1/500 was a huge advantage and a major selling point for professionals. Later 35mm cameras with metal blade shutters could go up to 1/250 MAX (real bragging rights with that). The Pentax 645 and Mamiya 645 have special (expensive) leaf shutter lenses for such portrait work to get around that limitation.
Fantastic and thorough video, all while being aesthetically pleasing. Bravo, Karin. Thank you for this video! I have been so incredibly nervous and indecisive with my step into medium format and this helps elucidate the mystery between systems.
Great breakdown and review of this brilliant and underrated camera system! Haha that viewfinder looks crisp, I wonder if they improved it over the ETRS?
Thanks Hashem! :) Very underrated indeed - but therefore also (still) pretty affordable. That's a good question, I have not looked through an ETRS yet, but that might be.
I have just got a ETRSi with the metered prism. We are in lockdown so I have ordered some 120 film that should be here later on today. I have also bought a 135N back for 140 pound sterlings from Canada, I'm in the UK. I can't wait to get all of them!!!! Thank you for your very informative video. Much nicer than reading the instruction, which I love anyway! Thanks
Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it! Wow, I envy that you got the 135N back for such a good price. Must be a lot of fun to shoot! If you want, let me know how you like it and have fun shooting! :)
The benefit of the 'electronic' compared to other leaf shutter interchangeable lenses where each lens has individual shutter timing which will vary depending on lens age, use, and other conditions... all the Bronica ETRSi lenses are timed from the camera, not the lens so when you change lenses the exposure from shot to shot is very uniform. As I wedding photographer for years in the 'film era', this made a significant improvement in lab turnaround time and print production costs.
Good point! Another pro for the electronic leaf shutters is they rarely, if ever, suffers from sticky-leaf syndrome which is common among mechanical counterparts. So they required much less frequent CLAs during their lifetime.
Great review on one of my favourite medium format cameras. I am an old timer (70) and used one of these in the late 80’s for wedding , also for commercial magazine work it is in pro to A4. After a long break from photography as a profession I now use a Sony RX100 and Fujifilm X100 for street photography. Keep the reviews coming. Subbed 😉
Thanks a lot for your comment Robin, I appreciate it! Sometimes I truly admire people who shot film long before there ever was and signs of digital photography - must have been a rather different experience than it is today. Your cameras sound like great companions for everyday shooting and street photography, so have fun shooting and stay healthy! :)
Karin, these cameras did have a 'long exposure mode', just not B, but a T (timed), but this is a mechanical switch on the lens, pull out the silver pin, move the switch from A to T position, then you can mechanically hold the shutter open ( not relying on the electric solenoid, hence a further battery drain)- then to close the shutter again, return the lever to A manually (recomendations are to use this ONLY for 16 sec. or longer, as to use it for 8 sec. the movement of the switch IS visible as blur on the photo, for 16 sec. and longer it is NOT an issue).
@@KarinMajoka I was gifted an early version of the Mamiya 645 which does not have the interchangable backs. However, the last models, I think, called the 645 Pro TL does, as well as an AE eye level meter finder.
Great review mate far more professional than my effort 😆 I have the ETRSi I bought it pre digi days to shoot weddings then as Digi took over I put the bron in storage a few months ago i dug it out and to be totally honest for my own work it’s all I want to use such a pleasure to make photos with the bron. New subscriber for you happy to support a fellow bron lover 📷❤️ regards Paul
„Bron“ is something I might also stick to as a nickname for my Bronica hahaha. Thanks a lot, I appreciate it! I’ll check out your channel, there are not so many videos out there where people are shooting a Bronica, so I am always happy to finde some new ones :)
@@KarinMajoka 😆😆I had a boxer dog when I first bought the bron so I called her Bronica it got shortened to bronny📷📷 I still shoot digi at work newspaper photographer etc but can’t get past the bron for my own stuff I love using it thanks for the support mate appreciate it 📷📷
Excellent overview Karin! I’ve got the SQ-A that I bought new to shoot weddings with around 1990, with the 65mm (35mm equivalent field of view), 80mm (48mm eq.) and 150mm (85mm eq. I think). Unfortunately, I have multiple 220 backs, as they gave me 24 exposures and for weddings it was perfect to not have to change backs so frequently. As you stated, 220 is no longer available and I only have one 120 back. I’d like another, but they are expensive and other than the ability to have color and b&w loaded simultaneously, I don’t really need another to enjoy shooting it again. It’s been safely stored inside for over 20 years, but now I’m rediscovering film and channels like yours! Bravo on your content!
Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it a lot! :) Actually there is still one film stock available in 220 format which is Shanghai B&W film - but other than that you are absolutely right. I read somewhere that people use 120 film in 220 backs - I have not tried it myself, but maybe that would also be worth a try before investing in another 120 back? Have fun shooting with your Bronica! :)
I had a Bronica ETRSi around 2008 - I loved it. I ran it with the stock 75mm lens (f2.8), oversized lens hood, and 3 film backs. I also uploaded a video about it on UA-cam around 2011, still viewable I'm sure. I eventually bought a used Hasselblad 500CM and the Bronica started seeing less, and less use. I sold my beloved Bronica 2 years ago, I kinda miss it. Great video…Thanks!
@@KarinMajoka I don’t favor one over the other in fact I find them both appealing. I found that it was a simple matter of framing and composition to bring out the best of both formats. I ended up sticking with the 6X6 of my Hasselblad 500CM because I just fell love with that camera.
It was time! Took me long enough, but as I said for me it’s important to know a camera inside out before I talk about it :) have fun and enjoy your coffee ✌🏼
I have to admit that I was browsing eBay for the RF645 at some point in the past - but sadly the prices let me decide otherwise haha. Thanks for your comment! :)
@@KarinMajoka if you ever get the opportunity to use an RF645, do it! Feels like an SLR, but with a vertical rangefinder. Super silent shutter, 65mm lens is one of the best medium format lenses ever made.
Comprehensive video on the wonderful Bronica ETRSi, in my opinion it is the very best all round 6X4.5 medium format camera, I have a large collection of bodies and lenses.
great video, BUT a warning, these are delicate instruments, made of plastic, esp. around the film back/darkslide, if you get harsh with inserting the slide the tab at the base (back release safety interlock) can be damaged, the plastic guide around it's hole apature break off, etc. so be carefull; looks simmilar to a Hasselblad/Mamiya BUT these are NOT as well built as them!!
Thanks a lot, Dan! If you enjoyed the carnival light there will (hopefully soon - but probably later than sooner haha) be a video up you might like. :)
Karin, there is also the winding crank which is modular, a motor drive is available, looks like the plastic winders Hasselblad 503CW's have, Also a manual "speed grip" is available, simple mechanical handle, with the shutter release, and a hot shoe, PS: the shutter button lock is important here, the center position LOCKS ONLY the button on the body, Allowing the grip & Motor winder to function, the 'fully' locked position locks ALL options (including the drive accessories and the cable release socket), so be carefull where the switch is, as i am aware this option is the only way of locking the grip's release button ( handy for storing this in a bag with the grip attached, and the darkslide removed).
I have been looking forward to this review ever since you mentioned the purchase. Of course this is another very thorough and considered discussion of the merits and otherwise of this fine camera. The best thing in photography for me also is looking down into a waist level medium format finder.
Thanks a lot, I appreciate it! Glad to hear I am not the only one who is obsessed with the waist level finder. It's also funny to show this camera to people who don't know anything about photography - most people assume that the image in the viewfinder is digital.
I think you’ve convinced me to get one! Thank you for the detailed information. My first medium format experience was a TLR, but I need a way to shoot portraits more easily. The Bronica seems the best entry point for the price!
Glad this video helped to make a decision which camera to get! I also think that the Bronica is a brilliant camera and highly underrated, especially regarding the price point.
Very good and comprehensive review. The interchangeable backs did it for me vs. Pentax 645, and the leaf shutter was preferable compared to the focal planes of the Pentax and Mamiya.
Thank you! Same for me, I was torn between the Mamiya 645 (super or pro, since these are the only two with interchangeable backs) and the Bronica ETRSi, but in the end found the build quality to appear more solid on the Bronica system.
So cool, I love when I can learn something new about a camera that I already own - so glad you did as well. And thanks a lot for your comment, I appreciate it :)
a tip Karin, at 10:27 the film back is an 'insert & shell' type, so to not wear out the mating surfaces, do like Charles Francis Hopwell does in his sq videos, HOLD the insert parts, depress the levers on the shell, and swing the door down, Then draw the insert out parallel to the shooting axis from the FILM plane side, this is the easiest way it comes out! (NOT like youtubers, esp. chinease and asians do it, by swinging the whole lot on the door, and lifting the insert off the door part!).
Really like my ETRS :) Mine came with the metered viewfinder (really heavy) and a lateral grip. But usually I use it as you do, wlf and I meter with a phone app. I already shot Fuji Provia like this with great results. Oh, the metered finder has an “issue” if you forget it in on position it will drain battery very fast!!! Fortunately it’s not hard to find batteries for it if you find out on the go... Only reason I don’t shoot it more often is because of the mirror slap that makes people look around when they hear
I am wondering if the metered finder is much heavier than the regular prism viewfinder 🤔 thanks a lot for the info, that’s very good to know! Have fun shooting your ETRS. :)
15:05 , small addition, this camera can be operated without battery and well enough. But U can use only 1/500 shutter speed, it is pretty much very usable in any situation, except low light.
one important watch point here, Karin, the camera is electronically timed Leaf shutter, and this has quirks, ONE: the Battery is the Life of this camera, if NO battery, ONLY 1/500th sec. is available (mechanical 'default'); TWO, the Shutter dial is ONLY active when Waist level and NON metered prisms are attached, the METERED PRISMS have shutter speed control, OVERRIDE over the dial on the body (in A mode - apature priority automatic exposure), Three, the sync for flash is either of three posibillities, (a) x sync socket, above lens; (b) SCA socket on left of camera [Metz style hammer_head flash guns via a special adaptor]- full TTL flash metered, through in- body circuitry; and finally (C) the 'hot_shoe' on either the Motor drive, or the 'speed grip', this is SINGLE contact, basic flash, like the National style speedlights for slr's in the '70's, or radio triggers for studio strobes.
awesome a real live photographer ( gather round kids) this is what real photography is , i want one i love film filters and light meters .. focusing setting apertures manually , ohhh the joy 😀😀😀 thank you for sharing , im looking for an etrsi now
Thanks a lot for your comment! And I totally agree, a camera like this is a real joy to use and every time I have to crank the shutter it makes me happy. :) Good luck finding one!
@@KarinMajoka thanks iv shortlisted a few , from shops so theres the couple of months warranty which is always a bonus , manual stuff is basic so im confident 😀
Great Video Karin 😁 I also love my Bronica ETR! Without the battery I can still shoot with it but only with 1/500 SS. I think for yours it would be the same :-) Grüsse ausm Nachbarsland :-)
Hello, dear, Karin! Very good and knowledgeable review of this excellent a little unknown medium format analog film camera! You truly give so much inspiration and help to try out this excellent MF camera! So, please receive my very big THANK to you! Now also you got a new subscriber and of course thumbs up all the way! Wishing you safety and continual health during these perilous times we live in! Best regards!
Hey hey - thanks so much for your kind words, I appreciate it a lot! And I am glad this review was in any way helpful, I am still using the Bronica a lot and love it to pieces - so I hope more people will value the beauty of this camera. All the best to you as well. :)
The interchangeable film back is interesting. Using different film on equal time. Perfect for making comparison of different film's. The same point of view, same aperture, same expose time but different film, for example. Interesting for studio shoutings. An assistant can load the film back while shooting,or it can prepared before. A feature I miss on 35mm cameras.
Just bought a 3 lenses, 2 backs, 2 finders ETRSI set for too much, but it's been a joy to shoot and liberating to switch between Portra and B&W. The grip also came with it and I must say it's a required accessory - it's almost 5 pounds decked out.
It's been a month and a dozen rolls later with my ETRSi, and despite a heartbreaking incident where I scratched the shutter knob (goodbye near-mint resale value) I loved using it. Again, thatspeed grip is indespensable for portrait mode and portability. While my pictures aren't as lovely as yours, I can see the inherent quality in the negatives which are clear and sharp. I've shot all but one frame in perfect focus with both the WLF and prism finder, despite my terrible eyesight. The film backs are my only area of complaint: I always feel like I'm going to snap the little posts that you have to push the spool down to unlatch. It's a rather inelegant design on a camera I'd consider more fluid, friendly, and intuitive than the RZ67 or 500C. I'm glad I went with what was essentially a spur of the moment purchase here
Really surprised at the viewfinder brightness. Seeing you lug around the film backs in your pockets, carry and operate the camera with ease inspires me to consider medium format. Great video Thank You.
Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it! And glad that my video helped to inspire you to give medium format a thought. Of course it’s heavier and than 35mm, but especially with 645 I think it’s still pretty manageable and still comfortable to lug around for a whole day. (And trust me, I am small and weak hahah)
Karin, for these cameras the BACK is the whole thing, the 'Insert' is the spool holder, and the rest is the "shell"; according to the manual, the Hasselblad has a MAGASINE, as there is no SHELL, but an insert cartridge, Mamiya 67's (RB & RZ) both have BACKS as they are the shell type, unlike say the Rollei SL2000f and SL3000 series, they are MAG'S.
Great review! I love the stance of waiting to know the camera inside and out before doing a review :) unfortunately I do not need another camera. No I don't. I don't....
The SQ is a lovely camera and also very similar to the ETRSi as I heard. I have deep respect for everybody who is good as composing in square format, that's basically what kept me from looking more into 6x6 cameras. So have fun shooting and enjoy your camera :)
Óscar Bellera wow, that’s pretty cool! Do you know the channel „aows“ over here on UA-cam? He shoots a lot in square (also film and digital) and I am always fascinated by his compositions
@@KarinMajoka yeah! I started following him and loved the camera, that's why I got the SQ in the end. Although too much landscape! I use it as more of a street photography kind. You can check my Instagram if you want! I would love the support! @oscarbellera
Great review and great brand. I’ve had two SQ-As since the early 1990s. I got them to replace my Hasselblad 500 c/m as my wedding setup. Still have the Hasselblad and love it, but I never understood why it was the de facto wedding camera back then. The speed grip was awkward, focus ring on the 80mm was way too close to the body, focus ring resistance way too stiff and the focus throw was way too loooong. The Bronica was like shooting a large 35mm slr once you put the speed grip on it. How it continues to be the underrated brand is beyond me.
Thanks a lot Shane, I appreciate it! The RB is a really wonderful camera and I loved shooting it for a day, especially the bellow focusing is superb ✌🏼 I still record video in log and even though there is still a loooot of room to improve, I think I got a little better in color grading over time :)
Thank for another great video, had the Bronica SQ-Ai, which was great from an IQ point, but was simply to unstable, lots og stuck mirror, shutter problems etc. with 2 different camera bodies, hope your experiece is better ! :)
Oh no, sorry to hear that you had so many troubles with your SQ, that’s a real bummer. So far my ETRSi did not have any issues and feels really really stable und sturdy, so I hope it will stay like this. :)
Great review, Karin. I have a Bronica SQ with multiple lenses and backs and really love the system. I’ve seen a lot of comments over time from ETRSi owners who love it. However, I’ve never been attracted to a 6x4.5 system since I don’t see any advantage over a 6x6 system since you can crop a 6x6 to get 6x4.5. I might someday be interested in a 6x7 system however.
Thanks a lot for your comment Steve - I appreciate it! The SQ also sounds like a lovely camera. I guess the form factor is a matter of personal preference. I have never been that drawn to square format, but I totally see why people love it so much and I am always really impressed when people can compose well on square. I find the 3:4 aspect ratio of 645 really appealing and I love to compose in the format that I shoot rather than cropping. But you are totally right that 6x6 might even be a bit more versatile because of the larger negative. 6x7 is also on my list one day!
There are also 645 backs for the SQ so you can get the full 15 frames, and the GS 6X7 system provides backs for all 3 formats. The drawback to going larger is that all the components are bigger and heavier.
Awesome. I have the ETRC. No battery needed (unless i want to use the lightmeter in the prism viewfinder). But on the other hand i have no removable back. Love the quality though :)
Thanks! That’s defiantly a biiiig plus for the ETRC. Since the removable backs were something very important to me the ETRC was not an option, but it seems like a solid camera anyway ☺️
Nice review. I used to have a Bronica SQ-A (6x6), until I persuasively convinced myself that my photography absolutely needed a Hasselblad instead... actually mostly because I wanted a fully mechanical camera for better repairability. I concur that the Bronica focusing screens are very good, definitely much better than the Acute Matte screens in the Hasselblad systems.
GAS (gear acquisition syndrome) is really and I am sure that most of us suffer from it, and sometimes even make decisions that might not be as rational in hindsight. Both are really incredible camera systems so you won’t go wrong either way :)
I own a Fuji GX680, which is a beast of a camera. The loading of filme for is pretty easy and when you insert the film back in the back, and turn the power on, it automatically advances to the first frame. One of the big things that made me want this camera was that if had an adjustable front end. In a lot of ways, it was similar to a 4x5 field camera. It has rise and fall, tilt and shift on the front end. I am looking at getting either a ERTsi for travel or going back to 4x5. I'm still researching my options still at this point. I will most likely go w the ETRs, as a lot of the film stock I love is no longer avail in 4x5. Have you had any issues with it so far? Most of what I shoot is architecture or nature. I will most likely keep the 680 for my architecture work...and use the ETRsi for travel. I want get a second lens. I hear the 110 or 100 is equivalent to an 80mm. Have you tried it? I do sometimes do portrait work parents when their kids are fixing to graduate hs. I always find what their into and build the shot around that and then the second shot would one dressed nicely.
Lovely video and I love the photos you took with this (in your followup videos)! I don't have an ETRSi, but do have an SQ-A which from my understanding is basically the same but BIGGER. It is so much fun using a Bronica. I love the experience of it all. The waist level viewfinder is so much fun!....until I try to rotate the camera, haha..... ....You mentioned the 135W back and I uhh definitely did splurge on it when I should not have. I can't completely recommend it because a) It is really pricey b) it is finicky when loading film and I may have messed up a few times... c) Another problem (at least with my SQ-A version) is that the camera doesn't stop you from pressing the shutter when the dark slide is in. I am not sure why but I have gotten plenty of blank shots thanks to that... d) If you do buy it, you might need a new focus screen (the cheap option is to buy/make framing guides on transparent plastic THAT SAID, it is sooooo much fun. I actually really hesitate to use 35mm cameras any more because using them in that back is so much more fun personally. I have barely taken any good photos in the 2 rolls I shot with it, but have had a blast and look forward to using it even more. If you want to see 1 or 2 examples, I put a few of my okay ones here: www.flickr.com/photos/191721832@N04/albums/72157717986359506 (and far more samples just tagged on flickr www.flickr.com/search/?text=bronica%20135w). Someday, I would love to own a 6x7 camera with an even wider 35mm (e.g. the Mamiya 7) but ahhhh I can't justify that cost
Thank you! I heard that the SQ-A is also a lovely camera and would probably also be my number one choice if I was looking for something in square format. Thanks a lot for your insight on the 135W back. The images you linked here are really stunning though, the image quality surely makes up for the inconvenience in usage. However, it‘s good to have information like these, because the price tag on those backs are really high and I am still debating of it’s worth it or not. And I totally feel you regarding the last point. I would also love to step into the world of 6x7 but oh my, the costs are really frightening
Great review. I have the ETRC because it was cheaper due to the lack of a removable back. I still love it though. I actually find the camera to be really compact and I love the feel of it in my hands. I do agree about the downside of it not being mechanical though. I think you can only shoot at 1/500s without a battery.
I think if you don't need interchangeable backs the ETRC is a great alternative! Great you enjoy it as much as I enjoy mine. Also you are right about the shutter speed of 1/500 without batteries. :)
Wonderful review Karin, I own a 6x6 TLR but one day hoping to pick up an interchangable back 6x4.5 or 6x7! hopefully the prices of MF film cameras don't keep inflating... otherwise I have to accept my fate haha
Thanks Jay, I appreciate it! 6x7 is also a format I am really interested in and hope to get into maybe in the future (for now, 645 just seemed like the better option for me). So yeah, I am with you on the price inflation and hope for the same 😅
JayRegular hahaha 😂 I don’t think my influence is that big, but we have to cross fingers that George Muncey or Matt Day won’t do a review on the Bronicas 😬
I never shot a Bronica but always wanted to. As a owner of an rb67 I too suffer carrying that thing around I enjoyed your video and photos so much you triggered my G.A.S now I want a bronica 😭
Even though the RB is heavy and chunky as hell it did not stop me from wanting one one day - so GAS is something we all suffer from, I totally feel you 😬
It always amuses me to see “how to load roll film” explanations. I started in 1962, and loading roll film was something we grew up with and learned as children, generally changing film in our mother’s brownie. Back then 645 was not the smallest medium format. Sizes included 6x4, 4x4, 4x3, and 1 1/4 x 1 1/4. 4x4cm was really common. 120 film was mostly used for 6x6 and 6x9. I seem to remember it was Mamiya followed by Bronica that popularised 645, and of course 6x7 was invented by Linhof and it wasn’t possible for other companies to make the format until after Linhof’s patents expired. There are lots of reasons to choose Bronica, but for me the biggest reason is the leaf shutter lenses and therefore being able to use flash at all shutter speeds on all lenses. Mamiya was limited to a flash sync of 1/60th second on most lenses and they had only three lenses with leaf shutters.
That is so interesting to hear, since I have never had any contact to medium format until a few years ago. But my father told me that roll film was all they have been using back than. It’s a shame that most of the other medium format sizes are no longer a thing anymore, especially something like 4x4 sounds incredibly interesting. Thanks for you comment and all the best :)
@@KarinMajoka 4x4cm was the standard negative size for cheap Brownie cameras for years. 127 film was 4cm wide, and was much more common than 120. There were several roll film sizes back then but the most common were 620, 127, 120, and 220. It was still possible back then to get cut film in small negative sizes because, while the cameras that used them stopped being manufactured at the Second World War, people tended to use cameras for decades and there were plenty of old cameras around. My first 4x5 camera was a pre-war RB Graflex. In the 1960’s 4 x 5 and 5 x 7 were considered normal format, what we now call “medium” format was considered “small” and 35mm was regarded as the junk tiny format for amateurs. It was National Geographic that supported 35mm as an acceptable professional format good enough for publication plus the sophistication of Nikon, Pentax, Canon, and Olympus 35mm cameras that changed the older ideas about professional formats, although Hasselblad and Rollei were also responsible for making 120 the pro choice for weddings and advertising in the 50’s and 60’s. When I started, 4 x 5 cameras, especially the Speed Graphic were still king for news journalism, but the writing was on the wall. In 1962 most cameras were German or American and larger. By 1972, most cameras were Japanese, and smaller. The 35mm revolution was swift.
Awesome review, I watched even though I've already had my ETRSi for a year. I agree 100% about the downside that it is electronic rather than fully mechanical, but I think that because it is modular, if you needed to replace the body alone, it is much more affordable than other cameras. Do you plan to get other lenses? I am really happy with the 40mm F4. I have been searching for the 135W back for over a year (if I can find one that is affordable).... Crazy how expensive they are.
Absolutely agreed! In case it decides to suddenly die it's at least only the body that needs to be replaced. The 40mm sounds really interesting! What do you use it for? I was thinking to maybe get a longer lens (maybe the 150mm) to be able to shoot more closed up portraits with it, but not sure yet. :)
One od the best medium format cameras. I had two ETRS, three SQ-A series cameras and between them lots od cameras im silmiliar formats. How the situation? I have next SQ, exactly SQ-A, i want another ETRS(ETRSi model. Shooting with this cameras is pure pleasure. Thank you for a film, its great. Noce mug 😉
Thank you for your comment! I did not have the chance to shoot a Bronica from the SQ series yet, but I can imagine that it must be just as fun as the ETRSi.
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Very thorough review Karin.
Pro tip: if you every forget to return the mirror lock up switch to the off position, don’t just take a blind shot. Switch it off, then stitch the double exposure on and take a photo with the lens cap on, and advance. Then turn off double exposure, and take the lens cap off and you are free to shoot without having to waste a frame! Happy shooting!
I also recommend the 135W back, love mine.
Thanks Andrew! Really cool that you pointed out this tip regarding the mirror lock up, because I took me aaaages to have this idea on my own. I must have waisted about 5 or 6 frames because of that. I also included this as a con in the video ad explained this little workaround with the lens cap + multiple exposure method, but finally decided to cut this part out because I felt like I did not do a good job explaining and the video was long enough anyway. But I am sure that more people ran or will run into this problem before so I will pin your comment so that other people can read up on it :)
Oh and do you have any sample images you took with the 135W back? Would be really interested to check those out! :)
@@KarinMajoka you can just crop a 120 frame into a pano view, rather than buy the 135w back. 135 and 120 both have the same width in the frame. ... Unless you want the 135w back to shoot 135 film not available in 120. Or you prefer to have a few extra photos on a single roll. The 135 backs are priced as collector items, because they are a little uncommon.
Could you also just pop the film back off, turn off mirror lock up, wind, then re-attach? Should be good to go, because it will reset the mirror and shutter and the film is already wound? Not great if it’s windy/rainy or anything, but I keep getting worried I’ll mess up all the levers and forget what state I’m in, so was trying to figure out a way to reset that without messing with them more, or risking a frame. 😅
Love your German accent ! It reminds me of my Oma !
Thank you for actually showing us how to use the camera. It took me a few videos to find someone who actually explains :)
Karin was so kind to give me the camera for one day, its super nice to shoot and the image quality is stunning 😊🔥.
Oh, right, eastblockboy - I almost forgot that you used my Bronica to shoot street on slide film (crazy, but also crazy good combo!) 😬 thanks, as always! ⚡️
The neat thing about the leaf shutter besides it being so silent is that because of the way it’s built, it will sync with a flash on all the shutter speeds on the camera, so that will help out a bit when shooting with flash.
Yes, that’s something very important I forgot to mention! I don’t really shoot with flash but if you are into studio portraits the leaf shutter is definitely a big plus!
Actually, the big advantage is balancing flash with sunlight in outdoor portraits. Way back when, the cloth focal plane shutters had sync speeds of 1/30 or 1/60, so the leaf shutter syncing at 1/400 or 1/500 was a huge advantage and a major selling point for professionals. Later 35mm cameras with metal blade shutters could go up to 1/250 MAX (real bragging rights with that). The Pentax 645 and Mamiya 645 have special (expensive) leaf shutter lenses for such portrait work to get around that limitation.
Fantastic and thorough video, all while being aesthetically pleasing. Bravo, Karin. Thank you for this video! I have been so incredibly nervous and indecisive with my step into medium format and this helps elucidate the mystery between systems.
Glad to hear this was helpful! Have fun on your journey towards medium format photography :)
Outstanding review, and fantastic industrial design.
Thank you ⚡️
Great breakdown and review of this brilliant and underrated camera system! Haha that viewfinder looks crisp, I wonder if they improved it over the ETRS?
Thanks Hashem! :) Very underrated indeed - but therefore also (still) pretty affordable. That's a good question, I have not looked through an ETRS yet, but that might be.
Love Pushing Film Too!
i think they upgraded the screen in the etrsi ,
A family friend had one when I was a teen. I was so jealous. What a well designed and made system.
❤ amazing review thanks! Has confirmed getting a Bronica is the right choice!
Your accent is the best btw
Wow! I love your channel! Finally someone who has the expertise and can explain it well. Great job!
Thank you for your kind words, I appreciate it a lot! Glad the video was helpful. :)
I have just got a ETRSi with the metered prism. We are in lockdown so I have ordered some 120 film that should be here later on today. I have also bought a 135N back for 140 pound sterlings from Canada, I'm in the UK. I can't wait to get all of them!!!! Thank you for your very informative video. Much nicer than reading the instruction, which I love anyway! Thanks
Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it! Wow, I envy that you got the 135N back for such a good price. Must be a lot of fun to shoot! If you want, let me know how you like it and have fun shooting! :)
The benefit of the 'electronic' compared to other leaf shutter interchangeable lenses where each lens has individual shutter timing which will vary depending on lens age, use, and other conditions... all the Bronica ETRSi lenses are timed from the camera, not the lens so when you change lenses the exposure from shot to shot is very uniform. As I wedding photographer for years in the 'film era', this made a significant improvement in lab turnaround time and print production costs.
Good point! Another pro for the electronic leaf shutters is they rarely, if ever, suffers from sticky-leaf syndrome which is common among mechanical counterparts. So they required much less frequent CLAs during their lifetime.
Great review on one of my favourite medium format cameras. I am an old timer (70) and used one of these in the late 80’s for wedding , also for commercial magazine work it is in pro to A4. After a long break from photography as a profession I now use a Sony RX100 and Fujifilm X100 for street photography.
Keep the reviews coming. Subbed 😉
Thanks a lot for your comment Robin, I appreciate it! Sometimes I truly admire people who shot film long before there ever was and signs of digital photography - must have been a rather different experience than it is today. Your cameras sound like great companions for everyday shooting and street photography, so have fun shooting and stay healthy! :)
Just picked this camera up on Ebay based on your video. I'm very happy with the first roll I've shot. Thanks!!!
Awesome, glad you enjoy the camera. Have fun and keep on shooting. :)
They had this camera at my school to check out. Was my first experience with Medium format, fell in love with it
I have the ETRS.. I loved your review and listening to you talk 😁
Thanks, glad you enjoyed the video :)
how much did you pay? I also want one but don't know the real price. Most of them are overpriced.
Your review is one of the best camera reviews on yt. Based on this alone I purchased a ETRS. ps when taking the camera apart you forgot the crank! :)
Nice video! 😊 I have ETRS coming the mail tomorrow and I can't wait. This will be first medium format camera.
Congrats and have fun with it! :)
Karin, these cameras did have a 'long exposure mode', just not B, but a T (timed), but this is a mechanical switch on the lens, pull out the silver pin, move the switch from A to T position, then you can mechanically hold the shutter open ( not relying on the electric solenoid, hence a further battery drain)- then to close the shutter again, return the lever to A manually (recomendations are to use this ONLY for 16 sec. or longer, as to use it for 8 sec. the movement of the switch IS visible as blur on the photo, for 16 sec. and longer it is NOT an issue).
I just picked up a Mamiya 645 1000S - enjoying it like you’re enjoying the Bronica!
Congrats on that! :) Also a really interesting camera that would have been on top of my list if it had interchangeable backs.
@@KarinMajoka I was gifted an early version of the Mamiya 645 which does not have the interchangable backs. However, the last models, I think, called the 645 Pro TL does, as well as an AE eye level meter finder.
I used to have one of these classic medium format cameras few years ago and the lenses are very sharp and very reliable to use and all works well
Great review mate far more professional than my effort 😆 I have the ETRSi I bought it pre digi days to shoot weddings then as Digi took over I put the bron in storage a few months ago i dug it out and to be totally honest for my own work it’s all I want to use such a pleasure to make photos with the bron. New subscriber for you happy to support a fellow bron lover 📷❤️ regards Paul
„Bron“ is something I might also stick to as a nickname for my Bronica hahaha. Thanks a lot, I appreciate it! I’ll check out your channel, there are not so many videos out there where people are shooting a Bronica, so I am always happy to finde some new ones :)
@@KarinMajoka 😆😆I had a boxer dog when I first bought the bron so I called her Bronica it got shortened to bronny📷📷 I still shoot digi at work newspaper photographer etc but can’t get past the bron for my own stuff I love using it thanks for the support mate appreciate it 📷📷
I do not think that this camera gets the recognition it deserves. Excellent video!
,
Totally agree! And thank you :)
Excellent overview Karin! I’ve got the SQ-A that I bought new to shoot weddings with around 1990, with the 65mm (35mm equivalent field of view), 80mm (48mm eq.) and 150mm (85mm eq. I think). Unfortunately, I have multiple 220 backs, as they gave me 24 exposures and for weddings it was perfect to not have to change backs so frequently. As you stated, 220 is no longer available and I only have one 120 back. I’d like another, but they are expensive and other than the ability to have color and b&w loaded simultaneously, I don’t really need another to enjoy shooting it again. It’s been safely stored inside for over 20 years, but now I’m rediscovering film and channels like yours! Bravo on your content!
Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it a lot! :) Actually there is still one film stock available in 220 format which is Shanghai B&W film - but other than that you are absolutely right. I read somewhere that people use 120 film in 220 backs - I have not tried it myself, but maybe that would also be worth a try before investing in another 120 back? Have fun shooting with your Bronica! :)
Superb presentation ! Typical German Style lots of details discussed ! Congrats x 1 000 000, Karin !
My most prized camera, very underrated.
Underrated indeed, but I have a feeling they will rise in popularity because they are rather affordable. Thanks for your comment. :)
Very nice review. No click bite bullshit. Straight to the point. Good job! Thank you.
Underrated Camera. I definitely want to make a UA-cam review on this one. Working on a hasselblad video now
Thanks for your comment! I love to explore other creators, so I will gladly check out your channel! :)
I had a Bronica ETRSi around 2008 - I loved it. I ran it with the stock 75mm lens (f2.8), oversized lens hood, and 3 film backs. I also uploaded a video about it on UA-cam around 2011, still viewable I'm sure. I eventually bought a used Hasselblad 500CM and the Bronica started seeing less, and less use. I sold my beloved Bronica 2 years ago, I kinda miss it. Great video…Thanks!
Oh that's awesome, you have been one of the OG people of UA-cam then! I will surely check it out. Do you prefer 6x6 over 645?
@@KarinMajoka I don’t favor one over the other in fact I find them both appealing. I found that it was a simple matter of framing and composition to bring out the best of both formats. I ended up sticking with the 6X6 of my Hasselblad 500CM because I just fell love with that camera.
Nice you finally have a video about this! Watching this now with my afternoon coffee 😀
It was time! Took me long enough, but as I said for me it’s important to know a camera inside out before I talk about it :) have fun and enjoy your coffee ✌🏼
Great detailed review, thank you.
The Bronica RF645 is the youngest of the bunch. Technically a Tamron product but still. The ETR system was my favorite. Great video!
I have to admit that I was browsing eBay for the RF645 at some point in the past - but sadly the prices let me decide otherwise haha. Thanks for your comment! :)
@@KarinMajoka if you ever get the opportunity to use an RF645, do it! Feels like an SLR, but with a vertical rangefinder. Super silent shutter, 65mm lens is one of the best medium format lenses ever made.
Comprehensive video on the wonderful Bronica ETRSi, in my opinion it is the very best all round 6X4.5 medium format camera, I have a large collection of bodies and lenses.
I have not tried many other 645 cameras, but there is almost nothing I can complain about on the Bronica. Thanks a lot for your comment :)
Very helpful I thought I had a broken camera after watching your video I got it to work correctly
Very good and informative video! I'm sure you have captured many great shots with it!
Nice review and video. Always good to see someone shooting Provia 100 and 400h. Thanks.
I don’t shoot slide film all that often but every time I do I think I should do it more often. And pro 400h is one of my favorite film. Thanks! :)
great video, BUT a warning, these are delicate instruments, made of plastic, esp. around the film back/darkslide, if you get harsh with inserting the slide the tab at the base (back release safety interlock) can be damaged, the plastic guide around it's hole apature break off, etc. so be carefull; looks simmilar to a Hasselblad/Mamiya BUT these are NOT as well built as them!!
13:22 the carnival lights look great🤩A damn good review and the camera is fantastic.
Thanks a lot, Dan! If you enjoyed the carnival light there will (hopefully soon - but probably later than sooner haha) be a video up you might like. :)
Karin, there is also the winding crank which is modular, a motor drive is available, looks like the plastic winders Hasselblad 503CW's have, Also a manual "speed grip" is available, simple mechanical handle, with the shutter release, and a hot shoe, PS: the shutter button lock is important here, the center position LOCKS ONLY the button on the body, Allowing the grip & Motor winder to function, the 'fully' locked position locks ALL options (including the drive accessories and the cable release socket), so be carefull where the switch is, as i am aware this option is the only way of locking the grip's release button ( handy for storing this in a bag with the grip attached, and the darkslide removed).
Very informative, as I am looking to get into medium format this is really useful. Thank you
Thanks for your comment, glad this helped. :)
I have been looking forward to this review ever since you mentioned the purchase. Of course this is another very thorough and considered discussion of the merits and otherwise of this fine camera. The best thing in photography for me also is looking down into a waist level medium format finder.
Thanks a lot, I appreciate it! Glad to hear I am not the only one who is obsessed with the waist level finder. It's also funny to show this camera to people who don't know anything about photography - most people assume that the image in the viewfinder is digital.
I think you’ve convinced me to get one! Thank you for the detailed information. My first medium format experience was a TLR, but I need a way to shoot portraits more easily. The Bronica seems the best entry point for the price!
Glad this video helped to make a decision which camera to get! I also think that the Bronica is a brilliant camera and highly underrated, especially regarding the price point.
I had an ETRSi outfit in the late 90's and loved it. I wish I still had it!
It's ever too late to get back to on old love! :)
@@KarinMajoka I have a Mamiya 645 1000S now, which is fine. The only thing really missing is the removable backs.
Very good and comprehensive review. The interchangeable backs did it for me vs. Pentax 645, and the leaf shutter was preferable compared to the focal planes of the Pentax and Mamiya.
Thank you! Same for me, I was torn between the Mamiya 645 (super or pro, since these are the only two with interchangeable backs) and the Bronica ETRSi, but in the end found the build quality to appear more solid on the Bronica system.
Thank you. I have a Bronica ETRS and I learned some things about it from your video!
So cool, I love when I can learn something new about a camera that I already own - so glad you did as well. And thanks a lot for your comment, I appreciate it :)
A Bronica, that's a decent medium format camera that takes pretty good photos. Congratulations Karin..!!
Thank you! So far I really love the Bronica and am really happy I got it. :)
a tip Karin, at 10:27 the film back is an 'insert & shell' type, so to not wear out the mating surfaces, do like Charles Francis Hopwell does in his sq videos, HOLD the insert parts, depress the levers on the shell, and swing the door down, Then draw the insert out parallel to the shooting axis from the FILM plane side, this is the easiest way it comes out! (NOT like youtubers, esp. chinease and asians do it, by swinging the whole lot on the door, and lifting the insert off the door part!).
Awesome review! Looking forward to those videos you mentioned at the end!
Thank you! :) I have not developed all the rolls yet, so I am just as excited as you are haha
@@KarinMajoka If they'd be only half as good as your Berlin subway set, we can wait as much as you want. :)
Really like my ETRS :)
Mine came with the metered viewfinder (really heavy) and a lateral grip. But usually I use it as you do, wlf and I meter with a phone app. I already shot Fuji Provia like this with great results.
Oh, the metered finder has an “issue” if you forget it in on position it will drain battery very fast!!! Fortunately it’s not hard to find batteries for it if you find out on the go...
Only reason I don’t shoot it more often is because of the mirror slap that makes people look around when they hear
I am wondering if the metered finder is much heavier than the regular prism viewfinder 🤔 thanks a lot for the info, that’s very good to know! Have fun shooting your ETRS. :)
15:05 , small addition, this camera can be operated without battery and well enough. But U can use only 1/500 shutter speed, it is pretty much very usable in any situation, except low light.
great review...thank you! makes me wanting to get a medium format camera now.... :)
thanks for your comment :)
Great and very helpful video, Karin! How did you film the POV of the waist-level viewfinder? Such a cool shot!
so far, I love my ETRSi that I've had for 5 days.
wow the camera looks huge in your hands ^^
Its such a tiny camera in real life.
Veramente brava. Ho anche io una ETRSi, acquistata nuova tanti anni orsono. Saluti dall'Italia.
one important watch point here, Karin, the camera is electronically timed Leaf shutter, and this has quirks, ONE: the Battery is the Life of this camera, if NO battery, ONLY 1/500th sec. is available (mechanical 'default'); TWO, the Shutter dial is ONLY active when Waist level and NON metered prisms are attached, the METERED PRISMS have shutter speed control, OVERRIDE over the dial on the body (in A mode - apature priority automatic exposure),
Three, the sync for flash is either of three posibillities, (a) x sync socket, above lens; (b) SCA socket on left of camera [Metz style hammer_head flash guns via a special adaptor]- full TTL flash metered, through in- body circuitry; and finally (C) the 'hot_shoe' on either the Motor drive, or the 'speed grip', this is SINGLE contact, basic flash, like the National style speedlights for slr's in the '70's, or radio triggers for studio strobes.
awesome a real live photographer ( gather round kids) this is what real photography is , i want one i love film filters and light meters .. focusing setting apertures manually , ohhh the joy 😀😀😀 thank you for sharing , im looking for an etrsi now
Thanks a lot for your comment! And I totally agree, a camera like this is a real joy to use and every time I have to crank the shutter it makes me happy. :) Good luck finding one!
@@KarinMajoka thanks iv shortlisted a few , from shops so theres the couple of months warranty which is always a bonus , manual stuff is basic so im confident 😀
Great Video Karin 😁
I also love my Bronica ETR! Without the battery I can still shoot with it but only with 1/500 SS. I think for yours it would be the same :-)
Grüsse ausm Nachbarsland :-)
Oh, that's an interesting info, I should look up if that also works with the ETRSi, thanks a lot! Also vielen Dank dir, Simon! :)
Hello, dear, Karin! Very good and knowledgeable review of this excellent a little unknown medium format analog film camera! You truly give so much inspiration and help to try out this excellent MF camera! So, please receive my very big THANK to you! Now also you got a new subscriber and of course thumbs up all the way! Wishing you safety and continual health during these perilous times we live in! Best regards!
Hey hey - thanks so much for your kind words, I appreciate it a lot! And I am glad this review was in any way helpful, I am still using the Bronica a lot and love it to pieces - so I hope more people will value the beauty of this camera. All the best to you as well. :)
The interchangeable film back is interesting. Using different film on equal time. Perfect for making comparison of different film's. The same point of view, same aperture, same expose time but different film, for example. Interesting for studio shoutings. An assistant can load the film back while shooting,or it can prepared before. A feature I miss on 35mm cameras.
Exactly, these are all really good ways to utilise the interchangeable back system! :)
Just bought a 3 lenses, 2 backs, 2 finders ETRSI set for too much, but it's been a joy to shoot and liberating to switch between Portra and B&W. The grip also came with it and I must say it's a required accessory - it's almost 5 pounds decked out.
Awesome, congrats on that purchase! I have not tried the hand grip, but if I ever come across one for a good price, I will surely check it out. :)
It's been a month and a dozen rolls later with my ETRSi, and despite a heartbreaking incident where I scratched the shutter knob (goodbye near-mint resale value) I loved using it. Again, thatspeed grip is indespensable for portrait mode and portability.
While my pictures aren't as lovely as yours, I can see the inherent quality in the negatives which are clear and sharp. I've shot all but one frame in perfect focus with both the WLF and prism finder, despite my terrible eyesight. The film backs are my only area of complaint: I always feel like I'm going to snap the little posts that you have to push the spool down to unlatch. It's a rather inelegant design on a camera I'd consider more fluid, friendly, and intuitive than the RZ67 or 500C. I'm glad I went with what was essentially a spur of the moment purchase here
Great review very well detailed thanks I looking forward to getting mine saving for it now fingers crossed I should have by December 👍🏻
That would be an awesome (pre) Christas gift from yourself to yourself! Fingers crossed for you :)
@@KarinMajoka thanks I am honestly excited about it I just love shooting film again keep doing what you do we appreciate it
Very nice video, breakdown of the camera and it's functions pros/cons. I have the ETRS, I might upgrade the body after a while though for Bulb mode.
Thanks a lot, I appreciate it! And I think of you really use bulb mode often the upgrade will be worth it. :)
Schön gemachtes Video, das auch auf die SQ-Ai und die GS-1 angewandt werden kann!
Really surprised at the viewfinder brightness. Seeing you lug around the film backs in your pockets, carry and operate the camera with ease inspires me to consider medium format. Great video Thank You.
Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it! And glad that my video helped to inspire you to give medium format a thought. Of course it’s heavier and than 35mm, but especially with 645 I think it’s still pretty manageable and still comfortable to lug around for a whole day. (And trust me, I am small and weak hahah)
Karin, for these cameras the BACK is the whole thing, the 'Insert' is the spool holder, and the rest is the "shell"; according to the manual, the Hasselblad has a MAGASINE, as there is no SHELL, but an insert cartridge, Mamiya 67's (RB & RZ) both have BACKS as they are the shell type, unlike say the Rollei SL2000f and SL3000 series, they are MAG'S.
I've been enjoying your videos! Keep it up!!!
Thanks ⚡️
Great review Carin!
I am fine with being called „Carin“ because it’s still better than being a „Karen“ haha. Thanks a lot!
Great review! I love the stance of waiting to know the camera inside and out before doing a review :) unfortunately I do not need another camera. No I don't. I don't....
GAS is real man haha. Thanks a lot for your comment, Phil. :)
Excellent review very detailed and informative
Thank you, glad it was helpful!
I was thinking of getting an ETRsi but ended up with an SQ, the 6x6 version. They are amazing cameras once you get to know them properly! Nice review!
The SQ is a lovely camera and also very similar to the ETRSi as I heard. I have deep respect for everybody who is good as composing in square format, that's basically what kept me from looking more into 6x6 cameras. So have fun shooting and enjoy your camera :)
@@KarinMajoka Once you get used to squared format it feels so natural, I even use it on my digital hahaha
Óscar Bellera wow, that’s pretty cool! Do you know the channel „aows“ over here on UA-cam? He shoots a lot in square (also film and digital) and I am always fascinated by his compositions
@@KarinMajoka yeah! I started following him and loved the camera, that's why I got the SQ in the end. Although too much landscape! I use it as more of a street photography kind. You can check my Instagram if you want! I would love the support! @oscarbellera
Great review and great brand. I’ve had two SQ-As since the early 1990s. I got them to replace my Hasselblad 500 c/m as my wedding setup. Still have the Hasselblad and love it, but I never understood why it was the de facto wedding camera back then. The speed grip was awkward, focus ring on the 80mm was way too close to the body, focus ring resistance way too stiff and the focus throw was way too loooong. The Bronica was like shooting a large 35mm slr once you put the speed grip on it. How it continues to be the underrated brand is beyond me.
Nice video. This camera looks beautiful; my Mamiya RB67 is nice but very heavy. Love the color-grade, glad you got out of Log 👌☺️
Thanks a lot Shane, I appreciate it! The RB is a really wonderful camera and I loved shooting it for a day, especially the bellow focusing is superb ✌🏼 I still record video in log and even though there is still a loooot of room to improve, I think I got a little better in color grading over time :)
@@KarinMajoka Great, looking forward to seeing the channel evolve. Keep going :)
Thank for another great video, had the Bronica SQ-Ai, which was great from an IQ point, but was simply to unstable, lots og stuck mirror, shutter problems etc. with 2 different camera bodies, hope your experiece is better ! :)
Oh no, sorry to hear that you had so many troubles with your SQ, that’s a real bummer. So far my ETRSi did not have any issues and feels really really stable und sturdy, so I hope it will stay like this. :)
Great video, thank you 🌸
Great video Karin and it made me subscribe
That's great, hello and welcome to the channel then. :)
Wowww, that scooter photo is great!!
thank you ⚡️
Great review, Karin. I have a Bronica SQ with multiple lenses and backs and really love the system. I’ve seen a lot of comments over time from ETRSi owners who love it. However, I’ve never been attracted to a 6x4.5 system since I don’t see any advantage over a 6x6 system since you can crop a 6x6 to get 6x4.5. I might someday be interested in a 6x7 system however.
Thanks a lot for your comment Steve - I appreciate it! The SQ also sounds like a lovely camera. I guess the form factor is a matter of personal preference. I have never been that drawn to square format, but I totally see why people love it so much and I am always really impressed when people can compose well on square. I find the 3:4 aspect ratio of 645 really appealing and I love to compose in the format that I shoot rather than cropping. But you are totally right that 6x6 might even be a bit more versatile because of the larger negative. 6x7 is also on my list one day!
There are also 645 backs for the SQ so you can get the full 15 frames, and the GS 6X7 system provides backs for all 3 formats. The drawback to going larger is that all the components are bigger and heavier.
Im waiting to save for a Bronica. To have a 120 good camara. I do like your channel a lot
Recently got a Bronica SQ-A. Loving it.
Congrats on your new camera! :)
Great Review- Thank you
thank you :)
Awesome. I have the ETRC. No battery needed (unless i want to use the lightmeter in the prism viewfinder). But on the other hand i have no removable back. Love the quality though :)
Thanks! That’s defiantly a biiiig plus for the ETRC. Since the removable backs were something very important to me the ETRC was not an option, but it seems like a solid camera anyway ☺️
Amazing video!
Nice review. I used to have a Bronica SQ-A (6x6), until I persuasively convinced myself that my photography absolutely needed a Hasselblad instead... actually mostly because I wanted a fully mechanical camera for better repairability. I concur that the Bronica focusing screens are very good, definitely much better than the Acute Matte screens in the Hasselblad systems.
GAS (gear acquisition syndrome) is really and I am sure that most of us suffer from it, and sometimes even make decisions that might not be as rational in hindsight. Both are really incredible camera systems so you won’t go wrong either way :)
Brilliant review thanks
You're welcome, thanks for your comment! :)
Did you get the 135W film back??
Nice video and wish you a great week ahead.
Nice video maam Karin im a big fan of yours greetings from Philippines!
I own a Fuji GX680, which is a beast of a camera. The loading of filme for is pretty easy and when you insert the film back in the back, and turn the power on, it automatically advances to the first frame. One of the big things that made me want this camera was that if had an adjustable front end. In a lot of ways, it was similar to a 4x5 field camera. It has rise and fall, tilt and shift on the front end. I am looking at getting either a ERTsi for travel or going back to 4x5. I'm still researching my options still at this point. I will most likely go w the ETRs, as a lot of the film stock I love is no longer avail in 4x5. Have you had any issues with it so far? Most of what I shoot is architecture or nature. I will most likely keep the 680 for my architecture work...and use the ETRsi for travel. I want get a second lens. I hear the 110 or 100 is equivalent to an 80mm. Have you tried it? I do sometimes do portrait work parents when their kids are fixing to graduate hs. I always find what their into and build the shot around that and then the second shot would one dressed nicely.
Lovely video and I love the photos you took with this (in your followup videos)!
I don't have an ETRSi, but do have an SQ-A which from my understanding is basically the same but BIGGER. It is so much fun using a Bronica. I love the experience of it all. The waist level viewfinder is so much fun!....until I try to rotate the camera, haha.....
....You mentioned the 135W back and I uhh definitely did splurge on it when I should not have.
I can't completely recommend it because
a) It is really pricey
b) it is finicky when loading film and I may have messed up a few times...
c) Another problem (at least with my SQ-A version) is that the camera doesn't stop you from pressing the shutter when the dark slide is in. I am not sure why but I have gotten plenty of blank shots thanks to that...
d) If you do buy it, you might need a new focus screen (the cheap option is to buy/make framing guides on transparent plastic
THAT SAID, it is sooooo much fun. I actually really hesitate to use 35mm cameras any more because using them in that back is so much more fun personally. I have barely taken any good photos in the 2 rolls I shot with it, but have had a blast and look forward to using it even more. If you want to see 1 or 2 examples, I put a few of my okay ones here: www.flickr.com/photos/191721832@N04/albums/72157717986359506
(and far more samples just tagged on flickr www.flickr.com/search/?text=bronica%20135w). Someday, I would love to own a 6x7 camera with an even wider 35mm (e.g. the Mamiya 7) but ahhhh I can't justify that cost
Thank you! I heard that the SQ-A is also a lovely camera and would probably also be my number one choice if I was looking for something in square format.
Thanks a lot for your insight on the 135W back. The images you linked here are really stunning though, the image quality surely makes up for the inconvenience in usage. However, it‘s good to have information like these, because the price tag on those backs are really high and I am still debating of it’s worth it or not.
And I totally feel you regarding the last point. I would also love to step into the world of 6x7 but oh my, the costs are really frightening
Great review. I have the ETRC because it was cheaper due to the lack of a removable back. I still love it though. I actually find the camera to be really compact and I love the feel of it in my hands. I do agree about the downside of it not being mechanical though. I think you can only shoot at 1/500s without a battery.
I think if you don't need interchangeable backs the ETRC is a great alternative! Great you enjoy it as much as I enjoy mine. Also you are right about the shutter speed of 1/500 without batteries. :)
Wonderful review Karin, I own a 6x6 TLR but one day hoping to pick up an interchangable back 6x4.5 or 6x7! hopefully the prices of MF film cameras don't keep inflating... otherwise I have to accept my fate haha
Thanks Jay, I appreciate it! 6x7 is also a format I am really interested in and hope to get into maybe in the future (for now, 645 just seemed like the better option for me). So yeah, I am with you on the price inflation and hope for the same 😅
@@KarinMajoka actually now that you've done the bronica review, I'm sure it's only a matter of time until bronica prices go up 🤣
JayRegular hahaha 😂 I don’t think my influence is that big, but we have to cross fingers that George Muncey or Matt Day won’t do a review on the Bronicas 😬
@@KarinMajoka haha you'd be surprised! But let's both agree to to that 😉
I never shot a Bronica but always wanted to.
As a owner of an rb67 I too suffer carrying that thing around
I enjoyed your video and photos so much you triggered my G.A.S now I want a bronica 😭
Even though the RB is heavy and chunky as hell it did not stop me from wanting one one day - so GAS is something we all suffer from, I totally feel you 😬
It always amuses me to see “how to load roll film” explanations. I started in 1962, and loading roll film was something we grew up with and learned as children, generally changing film in our mother’s brownie. Back then 645 was not the smallest medium format. Sizes included 6x4, 4x4, 4x3, and 1 1/4 x 1 1/4. 4x4cm was really common. 120 film was mostly used for 6x6 and 6x9. I seem to remember it was Mamiya followed by Bronica that popularised 645, and of course 6x7 was invented by Linhof and it wasn’t possible for other companies to make the format until after Linhof’s patents expired.
There are lots of reasons to choose Bronica, but for me the biggest reason is the leaf shutter lenses and therefore being able to use flash at all shutter speeds on all lenses. Mamiya was limited to a flash sync of 1/60th second on most lenses and they had only three lenses with leaf shutters.
That is so interesting to hear, since I have never had any contact to medium format until a few years ago. But my father told me that roll film was all they have been using back than. It’s a shame that most of the other medium format sizes are no longer a thing anymore, especially something like 4x4 sounds incredibly interesting. Thanks for you comment and all the best :)
@@KarinMajoka 4x4cm was the standard negative size for cheap Brownie cameras for years. 127 film was 4cm wide, and was much more common than 120. There were several roll film sizes back then but the most common were 620, 127, 120, and 220. It was still possible back then to get cut film in small negative sizes because, while the cameras that used them stopped being manufactured at the Second World War, people tended to use cameras for decades and there were plenty of old cameras around. My first 4x5 camera was a pre-war RB Graflex.
In the 1960’s 4 x 5 and 5 x 7 were considered normal format, what we now call “medium” format was considered “small” and 35mm was regarded as the junk tiny format for amateurs. It was National Geographic that supported 35mm as an acceptable professional format good enough for publication plus the sophistication of Nikon, Pentax, Canon, and Olympus 35mm cameras that changed the older ideas about professional formats, although Hasselblad and Rollei were also responsible for making 120 the pro choice for weddings and advertising in the 50’s and 60’s. When I started, 4 x 5 cameras, especially the Speed Graphic were still king for news journalism, but the writing was on the wall. In 1962 most cameras were German or American and larger. By 1972, most cameras were Japanese, and smaller. The 35mm revolution was swift.
Awesome review, I watched even though I've already had my ETRSi for a year. I agree 100% about the downside that it is electronic rather than fully mechanical, but I think that because it is modular, if you needed to replace the body alone, it is much more affordable than other cameras. Do you plan to get other lenses? I am really happy with the 40mm F4.
I have been searching for the 135W back for over a year (if I can find one that is affordable).... Crazy how expensive they are.
Absolutely agreed! In case it decides to suddenly die it's at least only the body that needs to be replaced. The 40mm sounds really interesting! What do you use it for? I was thinking to maybe get a longer lens (maybe the 150mm) to be able to shoot more closed up portraits with it, but not sure yet. :)
Hi , hab ich es richtig verstanden mit dem Lichtschachtsucher werden Portraits im Hochformat schwierig bzw unmöglich ?
really loves your video, your ETRSi too, amazing 😎😎
thanks a lot, I appreciate it ✌🏼
One od the best medium format cameras. I had two ETRS, three SQ-A series cameras and between them lots od cameras im silmiliar formats. How the situation? I have next SQ, exactly SQ-A, i want another ETRS(ETRSi model. Shooting with this cameras is pure pleasure. Thank you for a film, its great. Noce mug 😉
Thank you for your comment! I did not have the chance to shoot a Bronica from the SQ series yet, but I can imagine that it must be just as fun as the ETRSi.
nice and very extensive review.
thank you :)
Now you got a great camera!!
Great review!
Thanks ✌🏼
Thanks ✌🏼