Mamiya Super 16 II (1957) Film Camera
**What is the Mamiya Super 16 II?**
The Mamiya Super 16 II is a film camera that was first released in 1957 by the Japanese camera manufacturer Mamiya. It is a compact and lightweight camera that belongs to the Super 16 series. The Super 16 II was designed for both amateur and professional photographers who wanted a portable yet powerful film camera.
**Key Features and Specifications**
– Film Format: 16mm
– Lens Mount: Mamiya M-System (Interchangeable lenses)
– Shutter Speed: 1/5 to 1/1000 seconds
– Viewfinder: Optical viewfinder with a bright frame for accurate composition
– Exposure Control: Manual exposure with adjustable aperture and shutter speed
– Self-Timer: Built-in self-timer for delayed shots
– Flash Sync: X-sync for external flash units
– Weight: Approximately 500 grams
**Why Choose the Mamiya Super 16 II?**
1. Versatile Interchangeable Lenses: The Mamiya M-System offers a wide range of high-quality lenses, allowing photographers to choose the ideal lens for each shot.
2. Compact and Lightweight: The Super 16 II is small enough to carry around, making it perfect for street photography, travel, and documentary work.
3. Manual Control: With manual exposure control, photographers have full creative freedom to adjust the aperture and shutter speed to achieve the desired effects.
4. High-Quality Construction: The Mamiya Super 16 II is built to last, with a robust build quality that can withstand the rigors of regular use.
**Price and Availability**
Back in 1957, the Mamiya Super 16 II was priced at around $200, which was considered quite expensive at the time. However, the camera’s reliable performance and excellent image quality made it a popular choice among photography enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Today, finding a functioning Mamiya Super 16 II can be a bit challenging, as it is a vintage film camera. However, if you are lucky enough to come across one in good condition, you can expect to pay a higher price due to its collectible value.
**Conclusion**
The Mamiya Super 16 II is a classic film camera that offers excellent image quality and versatility. Its compact size, interchangeable lenses, and manual control make it a great choice for photographers who prefer the traditional film shooting experience. While it may be a bit challenging to find in today’s market, owning and using a Mamiya Super 16 II can be a rewarding experience for those who appreciate the art of film photography.
