How to Pick a Medium Format Camera

Selecting a medium format camera depends on what you intend to use it for, how much you are willing to spend, and whether you want a new model or an old one. There are a wide variety of medium format cameras and here we'll go through the steps of selecting one.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

How to Pick a Medium Format Camera

1. 
   Rolleicord Camera

   Decide what you'll be using it for.If you intend to do professional photography, this is now done almost entirely using digital cameras. Art photography still makes use of film, and for this, medium format cameras are fantastic, because the larger film creates greater and lusher detail in the print.

2. 
   Kiev 60

   Know your price range.Medium format cameras can cost as little as $20 or as much as several thousand, depending on what kind of camera you pick. If you want a small investment that will get you started, try a Holga, which is a plastic lensed medium format camera available for around $20. The film quality will be arty and strange with a Holga.Twin lens reflex cameras like the Rolleiflex, Rolleicord, or Seagull, can run you a bit more in used condition but the results will be clearer and more traditional.

3. 
   Kiev 88

   Make sure you can develop your film.If you aren't developing your own medium format film, make sure you have a local source who can develop it for you. Sending your negatives out of town for printing can be time consuming and expensive.

4. 
   Holga

   Search well.Auction websites are a good source for all things used or cheap, especially if you know exactly what you're looking for. But, you are likely to find a great deal on a medium format camera at a thrift store, antique shop or even at the Salvation Army or Goodwill Industries.