Mamiya Metra (1958) Film Camera
Welcome to our blog post where we will introduce and explain the Mamiya Metra, a renowned film camera that was released in 1958. This camera marked a significant milestone in the world of photography, offering advanced features and exceptional image quality.
What is Mamiya Metra?
The Mamiya Metra is a medium format film camera manufactured by Mamiya, a Japanese company known for its high-quality cameras. This particular model was released in 1958 and quickly gained popularity among professional photographers for its innovative design and exceptional performance.
This camera was part of the Mamiya Flex series, which was known for its twin-lens reflex (TLR) design. It featured two lenses stacked vertically, with the top lens used for viewing and focusing, while the bottom lens captured the image on the film. This TLR design allowed photographers to compose their shots with great precision.
The Mamiya Metra was equipped with a 6x9cm format, which produced larger negatives compared to the standard 35mm film cameras of that time. This larger negative size resulted in sharper and more detailed images, making it a preferred choice for professional photographers.
Key Features and Specifications
Let’s take a closer look at some of the key features and specifications of the Mamiya Metra:
- Film Format: The Mamiya Metra used 120 roll film, allowing photographers to capture up to 8 exposures per roll.
- Lenses: It was equipped with a Mamiya Sekor 80mm f/2.8 lens, known for its excellent sharpness and image quality.
- Focusing System: The camera featured a dual-format reflex focusing system, making it easy to achieve precise focus.
- Shutter Speeds: It offered a range of shutter speeds from 1/500th of a second to 1 second, allowing photographers to capture a wide variety of scenes.
- Light Meter: The Mamiya Metra had a built-in light meter, helping photographers accurately measure the available light and adjust their exposure settings accordingly.
- Interchangeable Mamiya Lenses: The camera was compatible with a range of interchangeable lenses, giving photographers the flexibility to choose lenses based on their specific shooting needs.
The Mamiya Metra was highly regarded for its exceptional build quality, reliability, and image performance. It was a versatile camera that catered to professional photographers who demanded nothing but the best.
Conclusion
The Mamiya Metra was a groundbreaking film camera that set new standards in medium format photography. Its advanced features, innovative design, and exceptional image quality made it a highly sought-after camera among professionals.
Although digital cameras have now largely replaced film cameras, the Mamiya Metra still holds a special place in the history of photography. Its legacy lives on, reminding us of the craftsmanship and dedication that went into creating such remarkable equipment.
So, if you ever come across a Mamiya Metra, cherish it as a piece of photographic history that once revolutionized the art of capturing light.
