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INTRODUCTION TO MEDIUM FORMAT

As the format of choice among wedding, fashion, and portrait photographers, Medium Format includes all cameras which accept 120 or 220 film sizes. The outstanding attraction of medium format is the superlative image available due to the substantially larger film format and increased image size of the negative or transparency. Because medium format negatives require less enlargement than smaller 35mm negatives to produce the same image size on the print, identical negatives on the same type of 35mm and 120/220 film will produce remarkable different prints. The 120/220 format delivers more resolution, finer grain, an expanded grey scale, and a visually more pleasing image. Medium format cameras are available in the following different variations:

The 6x4.5 and 6x7 formats enlarge to the exact ratio of an 8x10 print which allows the photographer to shoot the most traditional print size without cropping. The popular 6x6 square format gives photographers the option to crop either horizontally or vertically after the film is processed. The 6x9 format produces a negative in the same 1:1.5 ration as the traditional 35mm format.

Hasselblad 6x6cm medium format camera

Perhaps the most attractive feature of medium format systems is that the vast majority of them come with interchangeable film backs. This gives the photographer an opportunity to reload quickly in the middle of a tight shooting situation such as a wedding or runway assignments. It also permits changing from slide to negative, black-and-white to color, or slow to fast films in mid roll without losing a frame. Most systems with interchangeable backs also allow the use of 35mm film in standard and panorama formats, and Polaroid backs, which let the user check lighting, exposure, or layout options before exposing their other film.

Today, most medium format cameras are "system cameras," with popular options that include motor winders, interchangeable viewfinders with or without exposure meters, grips and an array or lenses rivaling 35mm in choice. These include perspective control lenses, tele-extenders and zooms. From the 24mm full-frame fisheye lens to the 500mm telephoto lens with low dispersion glass and floating elements, almost every option is available. Lenses with fast f/2.8 maximum apertures are standard. Several manufacturers also offer soft-focus lenses in popular portrait focal lengths.

Bronica 100mm lens

Furthermore, many medium format lenses are equipped with leaf-type in-lens shutters. While the top speed of these lenses is usually limited to 1/500 second, the option of flash exposure at any speed is a tremendous benefit for the outdoor photographer who seeks complete exposure control.

Altogether, the options of switching film backs in mid-roll, interchangeable viewfinders and screens, and the large negative, coupled with technical innovations like TTL/OTF flash control and electronically timed shutter speeds for unparalleled accuracy makes medium format the choice for quality conscious professionals and serious amateurs alike.

The different medium format sizes compared to 35mm format (actual size):

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