Medium Format Cameras

A twin-lens reflex like the Yashica Mat-124 G or Yashica A is the simplest way in: square 6x6 negatives, a quiet leaf shutter and a lower price. A Hasselblad or Mamiya is a system you grow into, with lenses and film backs you can swap.

All of these take 120 roll film: 12 frames per roll on a 6x6 camera and 10 on 6x7. We stock 120 film, and our lab develops it, in person or by mail.

Older bodies can have sticky shutters, light leaks or worn seals. Buying one that has been serviced and tested, with a warranty, takes most of that risk away.

A medium format camera shoots 120 roll film. Its negative is about 6 cm wide, several times bigger than a 35mm frame, so prints show more detail and smoother tones. You get fewer shots per roll: 12 frames on a 6x6 camera like a Yashica or Hasselblad, 10 on a 6x7 Mamiya.

It is worth it if you shoot portraits, landscapes or still life and want the most detail film can give. The cameras are bigger and slower to use, and each frame costs more than 35mm. If you are new to film, a 35mm camera is a cheaper way to learn first.

Very few new ones are made today. Almost every medium format film camera on the market is vintage: Hasselblad, Mamiya, Bronica, Rolleiflex and Yashica. Because these cameras are decades old, buy one that has been serviced. Ours have their shutter speeds checked and their seals and mirrors inspected.

On our shelf right now, prices start at $425 for a Yashica A twin-lens reflex and run to $4,200 for a Hasselblad 500CM kit. A Yashica Mat-124 G costs about $750. Mamiya RZ67 and Hasselblad systems cost more, because you can change lenses and film backs.

Our Brooklyn lab develops and scans 120 film for $18 a roll, with a typical turnaround of 4–5 days. Drop it off at 855 Grand Street or mail it in from anywhere. We also stock 120 film in color and black and white. All medium format cameras we sell have a 6-month warranty.