The Asahi Pentax 6x7 is a legendary medium format single-lens reflex (SLR) camera, renowned for producing high-quality 6x7 cm images on 120 or 220 film and for handling like a large 35mm SLR. Often referred to as "the Beast" or "Monster" due to its substantial size and weight, it is a modular, fully mechanical system known for its rugged construction and exceptional lens lineup.
Key Characteristics
Medium Format: The camera uses 120/220 roll film to produce large 6x7 cm (actual 56mm x 70mm) negatives, often called the "ideal format" because it closely matches standard print paper ratios (like 8x10), requiring less cropping for enlargements.
35mm SLR-like Ergonomics: Despite its size, the camera's design and control layout are similar to a conventional 35mm SLR, making it an intuitive transition for many photographers. A distinctive optional left-hand wooden grip further enhances handling.
Modular System: It features interchangeable viewfinders (pentaprism, TTL metering pentaprism, waist-level finders) and a vast array of high-quality, interchangeable Takumar/SMC Pentax 67 lenses, from fisheye to telephoto.
Robust Build & Mechanics: The camera has an all-metal body and a durable, electromechanical design. It is entirely battery-dependent to function, typically using a 6V PX28 (or equivalent 4SR44) battery.
Image Quality: It is highly valued for the outstanding sharpness and beautiful bokeh produced by its lenses, especially the popular 105mm f/2.4 standard lens, which provides a unique, three-dimensional look to portraits.
Considerations: Its large focal-plane shutter produces significant noise and mirror vibration, requiring the use of a sturdy tripod or mirror lock-up (MLU, available on later models) at slower shutter speeds to ensure maximum sharpness. Its flash sync speed is a slow 1/30 second, though leaf-shutter lenses were available to solve this issue.
In essence, the Asahi Pentax 6x7 is a powerful, professional-grade workhorse prized by landscape, portrait, and studio photographers for its massive negative size and exceptional optical performance.
The Pentax 67 is a legendary medium format film SLR camera system, often described as a "35mm SLR on steroids" due to its familiar handling and massive 6x7cm negative size. It is highly regarded by professional and enthusiast photographers for its robust build quality and exceptional image quality, producing sharp, detailed images with a unique, three-dimensional look when paired with its high-quality interchangeable lenses.
Key Features & Description
Image Quality: The primary appeal is the large 6x7 format negative (approx. 56x70mm), which offers significantly more detail and a distinct "medium format look" compared to 35mm film.
Design & Ergonomics: It resembles an oversized 35mm SLR, making it an easy transition for photographers familiar with that format. The camera is notably large and heavy, earning it affectionate nicknames like the "Beast" or "Monster," which can impact portability but also helps absorb vibration for handheld shots.
Lens System: It features an impressive and extensive line-up of high-quality, interchangeable lenses, including the highly coveted 105mm f/2.4 standard lens, renowned for its beautiful bokeh and shallow depth of field, ideal for portraiture.
Operation: The camera is primarily manual focus and exposure (depending on the prism/model version), promoting a deliberate and intentional shooting process.
Shutter & Sound: It has an electronically controlled focal plane shutter, known for its distinctively loud "mirror slap" sound, which can require a tripod and the use of the mirror lock-up (MLU) function for sharp results at slower shutter speeds.
Modularity: It is a system camera with interchangeable prism viewfinders (including metered TTL and waist-level options), focusing screens, and various accessories like optional left-hand grips.
The Pentax 67 is a versatile workhorse camera that excels in controlled environments like the studio or for dedicated landscape photography, delivering outstanding results for those willing to manage its size and weight. It remains a cult classic and a powerful tool for photographers seeking high-resolution film images