Mamiyaflex C Professional: An Iconic Film Camera from 1956
What is the Mamiyaflex C Professional?
The Mamiyaflex C Professional is a legendary film camera that was introduced by the Japanese camera manufacturer Mamiya in 1956. This medium-format, twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera quickly gained popularity among professional photographers for its exceptional build quality, advanced features, and outstanding image quality. The Mamiyaflex C Professional became a staple in the world of medium-format photography and has since become a coveted collector’s item.
Technical Specifications and Features
The Mamiyaflex C Professional boasts a robust construction with a durable metal body, making it a reliable companion for professional photographers. Its dual-lens system includes a viewing lens and a taking lens, allowing photographers to accurately compose their shots while viewing through the waist-level viewfinder. The camera is compatible with 6×6 cm square-format film, providing a large negative size that results in detailed, high-resolution images.
One of the standout features of the Mamiyaflex C Professional is its exceptional lens quality. It is equipped with a fast and sharp 80mm f/2.8 taking lens, which is renowned for its excellent optical performance. This lens delivers beautiful bokeh, sharpness, and contrast, ensuring that every image captured with the Mamiyaflex C Professional is of the highest quality.
The camera also offers a range of advanced features, such as a built-in light metering system, interchangeable focusing screens, and multiple exposure capabilities. These features, combined with its precise controls and smooth film advance mechanism, allow photographers to exercise full creative control over their images.
Price and Availability
Back in 1956, the Mamiyaflex C Professional was available at a price of around $200, which was considered quite expensive at the time. However, its exceptional build quality, advanced features, and exceptional image quality made it a popular choice among professional photographers.
Nowadays, finding a working Mamiyaflex C Professional can be a challenge, as it is a vintage camera that is no longer in production. However, with some diligent searching, it is possible to find well-preserved units being sold by collectors and enthusiasts. The prices for a Mamiyaflex C Professional in good condition can range from $500 to $1,500, depending on its overall condition and included accessories.
Conclusion
The Mamiyaflex C Professional is undoubtedly a remarkable piece of camera equipment that has stood the test of time. Its exceptional build quality, advanced features, and outstanding image quality make it a beloved choice among photographers passionate about medium-format photography. While it may not be readily available as a brand-new camera, its legacy lives on through the hands of collectors and photographers who appreciate the craftsmanship and artistry that this camera embodies.
