Mamiya C22 Professional (1966) Film Camera
**What is Mamiya C22 Professional?**
The Mamiya C22 Professional is a medium format film camera that was introduced by Mamiya, a renowned Japanese camera manufacturer, in 1966. This camera is designed to provide professional photographers with exceptional image quality and versatility, making it ideal for various genres of photography, including studio work, portraiture, and landscape photography.
**Features and Specifications**
The Mamiya C22 Professional is equipped with a host of features that make it a versatile tool for photographers. Here are some of its key specifications:
1. Film Format: This camera uses 120 medium format film, allowing users to capture larger negatives for enhanced image quality and detail.
2. Lens Compatibility: It is compatible with interchangeable lenses, providing photographers with the flexibility to choose the lens that best suits their creative vision. The camera typically comes with a 105mm f/3.5 Sekor lens, known for its sharpness and optical performance.
3. Twin-Lens Reflex (TLR) Design: The C22 Professional features a TLR design, which means it has two lenses—one for viewing and one for capturing the image. This design allows for precise framing and composition.
4. Waist-Level Viewfinder: With a waist-level viewfinder, photographers can frame their shots at eye level and achieve a unique perspective. The viewfinder also offers a bright and clear image for easy focusing and composition.
5. Film Advance: The C22 Professional has a manual film advance, allowing photographers to control the pace at which the film is advanced between shots.
6. Shutter Speeds: It offers a range of shutter speeds from 1 to 1/500 seconds, enabling photographers to capture fast-moving subjects or create long exposure effects.
7. Built-in Light Meter: This camera features a built-in light meter for accurate exposure readings, helping photographers achieve proper exposure in various lighting conditions.
8. Accessories: The Mamiya C22 Professional supports a range of accessories, including interchangeable focusing screens, close-up lenses, and cable releases, allowing photographers to further enhance their shooting experience.
**Release and Pricing**
The Mamiya C22 Professional was initially released in 1966 and quickly gained popularity among professional photographers. During that time, the camera was priced at around $350, which was quite expensive, considering the inflation-adjusted equivalent today would be approximately $3,000.
**Final Thoughts**
The Mamiya C22 Professional remains a highly regarded camera among film photography enthusiasts and professionals, even though it was introduced over five decades ago. Its superb build quality, exceptional image quality, and versatility make it a valuable tool for capturing stunning medium format photographs. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an avid film photography enthusiast, the Mamiya C22 Professional is a camera worth considering for your photography arsenal.
