I’ve spent countless hours behind both of these legendary medium format cameras, and let me tell you – choosing between them isn’t easy. As someone who’s shot everything from intimate portraits to sweeping landscapes with both systems, I’ve discovered that each camera has its own personality and strengths that can make or break your photography experience. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to expand your medium format collection or a curious photographer ready to dive into the world of larger negatives, this comprehensive comparison will help you make the right choice for your creative vision.
A Tale of Two Medium Format Giants
When I first started exploring medium format photography, I was overwhelmed by the choices. But two names kept coming up in every conversation: Hasselblad and Mamiya. These aren’t just cameras – they’re legends in the photography world, each with decades of innovation and countless iconic images captured through their lenses.
The Hasselblad 500 series, born in Sweden in the 1950s, carries the legacy of precision engineering that even caught NASA’s attention. I remember holding my first Hasselblad 500C/M and feeling like I was holding a piece of photographic history. The modular design, the satisfying click of the shutter, and the world-renowned Zeiss optics – it’s no wonder this camera became the go-to for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
On the other hand, the Mamiya RZ67, which emerged from Japan in the 1980s, represents a different philosophy entirely. When I picked up my first RZ67 Pro II, I was struck by its substantial build and innovative features. The rotating back system, electronic controls, and impressive Sekor lenses make it a powerhouse in the studio and beyond.
I’ve used both systems extensively, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned – from the technical nitty-gritty to real-world shooting experiences that might surprise you.
Build Quality and Durability: Engineering Marvels Compared
Let me tell you about the time I accidentally dropped my Hasselblad on a rocky trail during a landscape shoot. My heart stopped, but when I picked it up, dusted it off, and fired the shutter, it worked perfectly. That’s the kind of build quality we’re talking about with the Hasselblad 500 series. The all-metal construction feels like it could survive a small apocalypse, and I’ve heard stories of these cameras working flawlessly decades after purchase.
The Mamiya RZ67, while still incredibly well-built, takes a different approach. It’s constructed with a mix of metal and high-quality plastics that actually serve a purpose – they make the camera slightly lighter than it would be if it were all metal. I’ve shot with my RZ67 in light rain, and the weather sealing around the film back and controls has saved my film more than once. However, it doesn’t quite have that tank-like feel of the Hasselblad.
What I’ve discovered through years of use is that both cameras are built to last, but they’re built for different environments. The Hasselblad feels more at home in the field, where its compact size and rugged construction shine. The Mamiya, while certainly capable outdoors, really shows its strengths in the controlled environment of a studio where its weight becomes an advantage for stability.
Weight and Portability: The Real Story
Here’s something nobody tells you about these cameras until you’ve actually carried them: weight matters more than you think. The Hasselblad 500C/M with a standard 80mm lens weighs around 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs), while the Mamiya RZ67 with its 110mm lens tips the scales at about 2.4 kg (5.3 lbs). That might not sound like much on paper, but trust me – after a full day of shooting, you’ll feel every ounce.
I once took both cameras on a week-long hiking trip through the Scottish Highlands. By day three, I was reaching for the Hasselblad every time. The smaller size and lighter weight meant I could carry it in my regular camera bag without feeling like I was training for the Olympics. The Mamiya, on the other hand, demanded its own dedicated backpack and made me think twice about taking it on longer treks.
But here’s the interesting part: when I’m shooting in the studio, that extra weight of the Mamiya becomes an advantage. The mass helps dampen vibrations, and I’ve found that my long-exposure shots are consistently sharper with the RZ67 mounted on a tripod. It’s one of those situations where what seems like a disadvantage in one context becomes a strength in another.
Ergonomics and Handling: How They Feel in Your Hands
The first time I picked up a Hasselblad, I was surprised by how well it balanced in my hands. The grip is natural, and the controls fall right where my fingers expect them to be. I’ve shot entire weddings handheld with my Hasselblad, and while it’s not exactly lightweight, the ergonomics make it manageable for extended periods.
The waist-level finder is a joy to use, especially for portraits. I love how it encourages me to slow down and really compose my shots. There’s something magical about looking down into that bright, clear viewfinder and seeing the world in square format. It changed how I approach composition entirely.
The Mamiya RZ67, being larger, naturally has more surface area for controls, and Mamiya took full advantage of this. The shutter speed dial is large and easy to adjust, even with gloves on – something I discovered during a winter shoot. The multiple exposure switch is conveniently located, and the film advance lever has a satisfying, solid feel.
What really sets the RZ67 apart, though, is the revolving back system. I can’t tell you how many times this feature has saved me during portrait sessions. Instead of rotating the entire camera (and potentially disturbing my carefully arranged lighting), I just rotate the back and keep shooting. It’s one of those innovations that seems simple but makes a huge difference in real-world use.
The Neck Strap Experience
Let me share something that might seem minor but actually makes a big difference: the neck strap systems. The Hasselblad strap, while functional, can be frustrating. The metal locking plates require careful assembly, and I’ve scratched my camera more than once while trying to attach or remove the strap. Once it’s on, though, it’s secure.
The Mamiya strap is simpler and more straightforward. It attaches vertically and stays out of the way of the controls. When I’m changing lenses on the RZ67, the camera hangs naturally and doesn’t flip around like the Hasselblad tends to do. It’s a small detail, but when you’re working quickly, these things matter.
Lens Quality and Performance: Zeiss vs Sekor
This is where things get really interesting, and where I’ve spent countless hours testing and comparing. The Hasselblad system uses Zeiss lenses, which are legendary for their sharpness, contrast, and that special “Zeiss look” that photographers talk about. I’ve shot with several Zeiss lenses, and let me tell you – they live up to the hype.
My 80mm Planar is probably my most-used lens on the Hasselblad. It renders skin tones beautifully, with a natural falloff that makes portraits look three-dimensional. The 50mm Distagon creates landscapes with incredible depth, and the 150mm Sonnar compresses backgrounds in a way that’s simply magical.
But here’s the thing – the Mamiya Sekor lenses are no slouches either. In fact, in some situations, I prefer them. The 110mm f/2.8 Sekor is one of my favorite portrait lenses of all time. It’s incredibly sharp wide open, and the bokeh is creamy and smooth. The 65mm wide-angle is perfect for environmental portraits, and the 180mm telephoto delivers stunning compression for fashion work.
I conducted a side-by-side test shooting portraits with both systems using the same film stock and lighting conditions. Honestly, it was hard to pick a clear winner in terms of pure image quality. The Zeiss lenses had slightly more micro-contrast and that famous “3D pop,” but the Sekor lenses were no less sharp and had their own beautiful rendering characteristics.
Close Focus Capabilities
One area where the Mamiya really shines is close focusing. Thanks to its bellows focusing system, the RZ67 can focus much closer than the Hasselblad without additional extension tubes. I’ve done product shots with the RZ67 that would have required extension tubes on the Hasselblad, and the convenience of not having to switch gear in the middle of a shoot is invaluable.
The Hasselblad’s minimum focus distance varies by lens but is typically around 0.9m for standard lenses. The Mamiya, with its bellows system, can get as close as 0.7m with the standard lens, and even closer with some lenses. This might not seem like a big difference, but when you’re working in a small studio or trying to capture detail shots, those extra centimeters matter.
Film Backs and Format Options: Flexibility Compared
One of the things I love most about medium format photography is the ability to change film backs mid-roll, and both systems excel at this – but in different ways.
The Hasselblad uses the famous A12 magazines (and other variants like A16 for 4×4 format and A24 for 220 film). These are beautifully engineered, with a satisfying click when you attach them to the camera body. I’ve shot everything from 120 to 220 film in my Hasselblad, and the system is incredibly reliable.
However, loading film into a Hasselblad back requires a bit more attention to detail. There’s a film pressure plate that needs to be opened and closed properly, and if you don’t get it right, you can have spacing issues. I learned this the hard way early in my medium format journey, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature.
The Mamiya RZ67 film backs are more straightforward to load – there’s no pressure plate mechanism to worry about, just insert the film, wind it to the start mark, and you’re ready to go. But the real magic of the RZ67 system is the rotating back. Instead of having to rotate the entire camera to shoot vertically, you just rotate the back 90 degrees and keep shooting. This is a game-changer for portrait and fashion work.
I once shot an entire wedding using both systems, and the Mamiya’s rotating back saved me countless times. During the ceremony, I could quickly switch between horizontal and vertical compositions without disturbing my position or missing crucial moments.
Format Considerations
The format difference between these cameras is significant and affects how you shoot. The Hasselblad shoots in the classic 6×6 square format, which I’ve grown to love. There’s something liberating about not having to decide between horizontal and vertical – you just compose and shoot. The square format encourages a different way of seeing, and I’ve found that my compositions have become more balanced and intentional since I started shooting 6×6.
The Mamiya RZ67 shoots in 6×7 format, which gives you a larger negative and more resolution. I’ve made enlargements from RZ67 negatives that are stunningly detailed, and the rectangular format feels more natural for certain types of photography, like landscapes and architecture.
One thing to consider is that you get 12 exposures on a roll of 120 film with the Hasselblad (6×6), but only 10 with the Mamiya (6×7). That might not seem like a big difference, but when you’re paying for film and processing, it adds up over time.
Viewfinders and Focusing Systems: Clarity and Precision
The viewfinder experience is crucial in medium format photography, and both cameras offer excellent options – but with different philosophies.
The Hasselblad comes standard with a waist-level finder that provides a bright, clear view of your subject. I love using it for portraits because it encourages a more intimate connection with my subjects – instead of hiding behind the camera, I’m looking down at the finder and can maintain eye contact. The focusing screen is bright and contrasty, making it relatively easy to achieve critical focus.
However, I found the standard acute matte screen challenging to use in low light situations, so I invested in a 45-degree prism finder with a split-image rangefinder. This made a world of difference, especially for handheld shooting and working in dim conditions. The prism finder is more expensive, but in my opinion, it’s worth every penny if you shoot handheld frequently.
The Mamiya RZ67 has a larger, brighter viewfinder that’s simply a joy to use. The standard waist-level finder is huge compared to the Hasselblad’s, and the extra brightness makes focusing easier, especially in challenging lighting conditions. I’ve found that I can focus more quickly and accurately with the RZ67, which is crucial when shooting portraits or fashion where timing is everything.
Mamiya offers optional prism finders as well, including some with built-in light meters. I’ve used the AE prism finder, and while it adds bulk and weight, the convenience of having a through-the-lens meter is undeniable, especially when working quickly in changing light conditions.
Mirror Lock-up and Vibration
Both cameras have mirror lock-up capabilities, but they work differently. The Hasselblad has a dedicated mirror lock-up lever that’s easy to engage, making it ideal for long exposures and macro work where camera vibration needs to be minimized.
The Mamiya’s mirror lock-up is integrated into the shutter release process – when you use a cable release in the lens socket, the mirror locks up automatically before the shutter fires. This works well, but it’s less intuitive than the Hasselblad’s dedicated lever.
I’ve done extensive long-exposure night photography with both cameras, and while both produce excellent results, I find the Hasselblad’s mirror lock-up system slightly more convenient to use in the field.
Shutter Mechanisms and Exposure Control: Reliability and Precision
The shutter systems in these cameras are fundamentally different, and this affects how you shoot and what you can achieve.
The Hasselblad uses leaf shutters located in the lenses themselves. This means each lens has its own shutter mechanism, which sounds complicated but actually works beautifully in practice. The main advantage is flash synchronization at all shutter speeds – up to 1/500th of a second. This is incredible for studio work and outdoor fill-flash photography.
I’ve shot fashion sessions with my Hasselblad using flash at 1/500th second, freezing motion while still getting beautiful ambient light exposure. You simply can’t do this with most other camera systems. The leaf shutters are also remarkably quiet and smooth, which is great for discrete shooting situations.
The Mamiya RZ67 uses a more complex electronic shutter system that’s controlled by the camera body rather than being located in each lens. This allows for some advanced features like aperture priority mode (when used with the AE prism finder) and more precise exposure control. However, it means the camera requires batteries to function – something that can be a disadvantage in remote locations or extreme conditions.
I learned this lesson the hard way during a winter photoshoot in the mountains. My Mamiya’s batteries died in the cold, and I was left with a very expensive paperweight. Fortunately, the RZ67 has a mechanical backup mode that works at 1/400th second without batteries, which saved the day. The Hasselblad, being fully mechanical, would have kept working without any issues.
Shutter Speed Range and Accuracy
The Hasselblad offers shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/500th second, plus bulb mode for long exposures. The speeds are controlled by rings on the lenses, which are precise and easy to adjust. I’ve tested the accuracy of my Hasselblad’s shutter speeds, and they’re remarkably consistent even on older lenses.
The Mamiya RZ67 provides speeds from 8 seconds to 1/400th second, plus bulb mode. The electronic control means the speeds are very accurate, and the longer exposure times (up to 8 seconds) are useful for low-light photography without having to use bulb mode.
In real-world use, I’ve found both systems to be extremely reliable. The Hasselblad’s mechanical simplicity means there’s less to go wrong, while the Mamiya’s electronic system offers more convenience and features when it’s working properly.
Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter
At the end of the day, image quality is what matters most, and both cameras deliver exceptional results – but with different characteristics that might appeal to different photographers.
The Hasselblad’s 6×6 format produces square images with a unique aesthetic that I’ve grown to love. The Zeiss lenses are renowned for their micro-contrast and that famous “3D pop” that makes subjects seem to leap off the print. I’ve scanned Hasselblad negatives at high resolution and been amazed at the detail and clarity, even in the corners of the frame.
Color reproduction with the Hasselblad is particularly beautiful. There’s a warmth and richness to the colors that’s hard to describe but immediately recognizable. I’ve shot portraits on Portra 400 with my Hasselblad that have a three-dimensional quality that digital cameras struggle to replicate.
The Mamiya RZ67’s larger 6×7 negative gives you more resolution and detail. When I make large prints from RZ67 negatives, the extra information is noticeable, especially in fine details and textures. The Sekor lenses have their own character – slightly less contrasty than Zeiss glass but with a beautiful, smooth rendering that’s particularly flattering for portraits.
I’ve found that the Mamiya excels in situations where you need maximum detail and resolution, like product photography or landscapes where you plan to make large prints. The Hasselblad, while certainly capable of incredible detail, has a more artistic quality to its images that I find particularly appealing for portraits and fine art work.
Dynamic Range and Tonal Quality
Both cameras handle highlight and shadow detail beautifully, but I’ve noticed subtle differences in how they render tonal ranges. The Hasselblad tends to have slightly more contrast straight out of the camera, which can be great for creating punchy images with minimal post-processing.
The Mamiya, with its larger negative, captures a wider dynamic range and smoother tonal transitions. This is particularly noticeable in high-contrast situations like backlit portraits or sunset landscapes. I’ve found that Mamiya negatives give me more latitude in post-processing, allowing me to recover shadow and highlight detail that might be lost with smaller formats.
Real-World Use Cases: Where Each Camera Shines
After years of shooting with both systems, I’ve developed a clear sense of where each camera excels. Let me share some real-world scenarios that might help you decide which system is right for you.
Studio Photography
For studio work, especially portraits and fashion, I find myself reaching for the Mamiya RZ67 more often. The larger viewfinder makes focusing easier, the rotating back saves time when switching orientations, and the extra weight actually helps stabilize the camera on a tripod. The electronic controls and optional light metering make workflow more efficient when you’re working quickly with clients.
I recently shot a fashion editorial in my studio using both cameras, and while both produced excellent results, I worked faster with the Mamiya. The ability to quickly switch between horizontal and vertical compositions without moving the camera or lights was invaluable, and my clients appreciated the efficiency.
Location and Outdoor Photography
When I’m shooting outdoors, whether it’s landscapes, travel photography, or environmental portraits, the Hasselblad is my go-to camera. Its lighter weight and more compact size make it practical to carry for long periods, and the fully mechanical operation means I don’t have to worry about batteries dying in remote locations.
I took both cameras on a two-week trip through Patagonia, and by the end of the first week, the Hasselblad was getting 90% of the use. The Mamiya stayed in the hotel room for all but the most accessible shoots. The reliability of the mechanical Hasselblad in changing weather conditions gave me peace of mind, and the square format was perfect for the dramatic landscapes I was capturing.
Also Read: Nikon Z50 Vs D500
Wedding and Event Photography
This is a tough one, as both cameras can work well for weddings, but they require different approaches. I’ve shot weddings with both systems, and here’s what I’ve learned:
The Hasselblad is great for documentary-style wedding photography where you need to be mobile and discrete. The quieter shutter and smaller size make it less obtrusive, and the square format encourages creative compositions. I’ve captured beautiful candid moments with my Hasselblad that I might have missed with a larger, more conspicuous camera.
The Mamiya RZ67 excels at formal portraits and group shots during weddings. The larger negative and excellent lenses produce stunning detail that clients love, especially for enlargements. However, the size and weight can be challenging during long wedding days, and the louder shutter might be disruptive during quiet moments like the ceremony.
Street and Documentary Photography
For street photography, the Hasselblad is the clear winner in my experience. The waist-level finder allows you to compose shots without bringing the camera to your eye, which is less intimidating to subjects. The smaller size and quieter shutter make it more practical for discrete shooting in urban environments.
I’ve spent days wandering through cities with my Hasselblad, capturing candid moments and street scenes. The square format encourages a different way of seeing, and I’ve found that my street photography has become more intentional and compositional since I started using the Hasselblad.
The Mamiya RZ67, while certainly capable of street photography, is really too large and conspicuous for most street situations. The loud shutter and size make it better suited for more controlled environments where you don’t need to be discrete.
Cost Considerations: Investment and Value
Let’s talk money, because this is a significant factor for most photographers. The Hasselblad system is generally more expensive than the Mamiya, both in initial investment and when adding lenses and accessories.
A used Hasselblad 500C/M body with an A12 film back will typically cost between $800-1200, depending on condition. Add a standard 80mm lens, and you’re looking at $1200-1800 for a basic kit. Additional lenses and accessories can add up quickly, with Zeiss lenses ranging from $500-2000+ depending on the focal length and condition.
The Mamiya RZ67 system is more budget-friendly. A used RZ67 Pro II body with a standard film back can be found for $400-700, and with a 110mm lens, you might spend $600-1000 for a complete kit. Mamiya lenses are generally less expensive than their Hasselblad counterparts, with most ranging from $300-1000.
However, it’s important to consider the long-term value as well. Hasselblad cameras and lenses tend to hold their value better over time, and the system’s longevity means that accessories from the 1950s can still be used with modern bodies. The Mamiya system, while more affordable initially, doesn’t quite have the same resale value or long-term price stability.
Film and Processing Costs
Both cameras use 120 film, so your film costs will be similar. However, remember that the Hasselblad gives you 12 exposures per roll (6×6 format), while the Mamiya gives you 10 exposures (6×7 format). Over time, this difference adds up, especially if you shoot frequently.
Processing costs are the same for both systems, as they both use standard 120 film that any lab can handle. Scanning costs might be slightly higher for the Mamiya’s larger 6×7 negatives if you’re paying per scan, but the difference is usually minimal.
Maintenance and Longevity: Keeping Your Camera Working
Both cameras are built to last, but they have different maintenance requirements that you should consider.
The Hasselblad, being fully mechanical, is relatively low-maintenance. I’ve owned Hasselblads that were decades old and still worked perfectly with just basic cleaning and lubrication. The mechanical nature means there are no electronics to fail, and the modular design makes it easy to replace individual components if something does go wrong.
However, Hasselblads do require periodic maintenance to keep them in top condition. The leaf shutters in the lenses should be serviced every 5-10 years depending on use, and the film backs need occasional adjustment to ensure consistent frame spacing.
The Mamiya RZ67, with its electronic components, requires more attention. The batteries need to be replaced regularly, and the electronic circuits can fail over time, especially if the camera is exposed to moisture or extreme temperatures. I’ve had to have my RZ67 serviced twice for electronic issues, while my Hasselblads have never needed major repairs.
That said, when the Mamiya is working properly, it’s incredibly reliable. The build quality is excellent, and with proper care, these cameras can last for decades. The key is to keep them clean, dry, and to have them serviced by a qualified technician if you notice any issues.
Learning Curve: Which Camera is Easier to Master?
Neither camera is particularly easy for beginners, but they present different challenges.
The Hasselblad has a steeper initial learning curve, especially when it comes to loading film backs and achieving accurate focus with the waist-level finder. I remember my first few rolls with my Hasselblad – half of them had spacing issues or were slightly out of focus. But once you master the system, it becomes second nature, and the workflow is quite efficient.
The Mamiya RZ67 is more intuitive to use initially, with simpler film loading and a larger, brighter viewfinder that makes focusing easier. The electronic controls and more modern design feel more familiar to photographers coming from 35mm or digital systems. However, the size and weight can be challenging to manage, especially for handheld shooting.
I’ve taught workshops with both cameras, and I’ve found that students generally pick up the basics of the Mamiya more quickly, but the Hasselblad users often develop a deeper connection to their cameras and become more proficient in the long run.
My Personal Verdict: Which One Would I Choose?
After years of shooting with both systems, if I could only keep one camera, it would be the Hasselblad 500C/M. Here’s why:
The Hasselblad’s combination of build quality, reliability, and portability makes it the more versatile camera for my style of photography. I shoot a mix of portraits, landscapes, and street photography, and the Hasselblad excels at all of these. The fully mechanical operation gives me peace of mind when I’m traveling or shooting in remote locations, and the square format has become an integral part of my creative vision.
That said, I wouldn’t part with my Mamiya RZ67 either. For studio work and situations where I need maximum detail and resolution, the RZ67 is unbeatable. The rotating back system is brilliant for portrait work, and the larger viewfinder makes focusing a pleasure.
If you’re primarily a studio photographer or you specialize in portraits and fashion where maximum detail is important, the Mamiya RZ67 might be the better choice for you. If you’re more of an all-around photographer who values portability, reliability, and the unique aesthetic of square format images, the Hasselblad could be your perfect match.
Also Read: Canon M6 Vs M50
Pro Tips for Getting the Most from Your Medium Format Camera (2025)
Regardless of which camera you choose, here are some tips I’ve learned that will help you get the best results:
For Hasselblad Users:
- Invest in a good focusing screen – The standard acute matte screen can be challenging to focus with, especially in low light. A brighter screen or one with a split-image rangefinder will make a huge difference.
- Learn to load film backs properly – Take your time and make sure the film is correctly positioned under the pressure plate. This will prevent spacing issues and ensure consistent results.
- Use a neck strap – The Hasselblad is heavy enough that you’ll want the security of a good strap, even when shooting on a tripod.
- Practice with the waist-level finder – It takes time to get used to composing with a reversed image, but once you master it, you’ll love the connection it creates with your subjects.
For Mamiya RZ67 Users:
- Always carry spare batteries – The electronic system is great when it works, but dead batteries will leave you with a very expensive paperweight. Keep spares in your camera bag at all times.
- Use a good tripod – The RZ67’s weight makes handheld shooting challenging for long periods. A sturdy tripod will improve your image quality and save your arms.
- Take advantage of the rotating back – This is one of the RZ67’s best features. Practice using it quickly so you can switch orientations without missing shots.
- Consider the AE prism finder – While expensive, the convenience of built-in light metering is worth it for many photographers, especially in fast-changing lighting conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which camera is better for beginners?
The Mamiya RZ67 is generally more beginner-friendly due to its more intuitive controls and larger, brighter viewfinder. However, both cameras have a learning curve, and beginners should be prepared to spend time practicing and learning the systems.
Can I use digital backs with these cameras?
Yes, both systems can accept digital backs, but they’re quite expensive and often cost more than the cameras themselves. Most photographers find it more economical to shoot film and scan the negatives.
Which system has better lens selection?
Both systems have excellent lens selections, but they’re different. Hasselblad offers a wider range of vintage and modern Zeiss lenses, while Mamiya has a comprehensive selection of Sekor optics. The quality is excellent in both systems.
Are these cameras suitable for professional work?
Absolutely! Both cameras are professional-grade systems that have been used by top photographers for decades. They’re capable of producing publication-quality images that rival modern digital cameras in terms of resolution and dynamic range.
How much does it cost to get started with each system?
You can get into a basic Hasselblad setup for around $1200-1800, while a basic Mamiya RZ67 kit might cost $600-1000. However, prices vary widely based on condition and included accessories.
Which camera is better for travel photography?
The Hasselblad is generally better for travel due to its smaller size, lighter weight, and fully mechanical operation that doesn’t require batteries.
Can I shoot both 120 and 220 film with these cameras?
Yes, both systems can shoot 120 and 220 film, though you’ll need appropriate film backs. 220 film is becoming increasingly rare, so most photographers primarily use 120 film.
How do these cameras compare to modern medium format digital cameras?
While modern digital medium format cameras offer convenience and immediate results, these film cameras provide a unique aesthetic and shooting experience that many photographers prefer. The resolution and dynamic range of large format film can still compete with or exceed digital systems in many respects.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Hasselblad and Mamiya RZ67 isn’t about finding the “better” camera – it’s about finding the right camera for you and your photography. Both systems are capable of producing stunning images that will stand the test of time, and both offer unique shooting experiences that can enrich your photographic journey.
I encourage you to try both cameras if possible, perhaps by renting them for a weekend or borrowing from a friend. There’s no substitute for hands-on experience when making this kind of decision.
Remember, the best camera is the one that inspires you to shoot. Whether that’s the precision engineering of the Hasselblad or the innovative design of the Mamiya RZ67, both cameras have the potential to help you create images that you’ll be proud of for years to come.
Happy shooting, and don’t forget to bookmark this page for future reference as you continue your medium format photography journey!