From the perspective that 'changing tools changes the work,' we bring you stories about the somewhat unusual medium format film cameras in two magazines. This time, as a culmination, we present secret photography techniques for taking Polaroid photos with medium format cameras.
Mamiya - RB/RZ Series
The RB67 is the predecessor to the RZ67, featuring a classic appearance. The camera body is large and equipped with a relatively simple mechanism, being a fully mechanical camera. The RZ67 is more compact compared to the RB67 and includes features like motor drive and electronic control.
The Mamiya RB67 and RZ67 are 6x7 format cameras, but by rotating the film back 90 degrees, they can shoot in both portrait and landscape orientations.
In essence, they are sometimes referred to as '7x7 format' cameras. When a Polaroid back is attached to the RB67 or RZ67, you can shoot in this '7x7 format'. The Polaroid Type 100 has an image size of 7.3×9.5cm, with the characteristic Polaroid borders of 1.3cm on each side, allowing almost the entire film to be captured.
A Moving Photo Studio
Tatsuki's YouTube channel, which uniquely conveys the charm of Tokyo life and cameras, provides a clear image of shooting Polaroids with a medium format camera. The sound of the shutter in the video is very pleasant, and you can feel Tatsuki's enjoyment of shooting, so be sure to check it out.
©tatsuki
Polaroid photos develop instantly and can be checked on the spot, allowing you to feel the moment of shooting more tangibly. The Polaroid photos you take can be framed and hung on the wall or given as gifts to loved ones. Above all, taking Polaroid photos with a medium format camera creates a unique photographic experience and original artistry in the shooting style itself.
Film Backs by Zinstax
Following the discontinuation of Fujifilm's instant film FP-100C, haan.chen started producing Polaroid backs for the RB/RZ67. Most of the videos on YouTube featuring Polaroid shooting with the Mamiya RB/RZ67 use the Zinstax invented by him. The price is 350 euros. Considering it as the startup cost for a unique mobile photo studio, it might not be considered expensive.
© Zinstax
Indeed, it may seem challenging, but this endeavor could be your first step into the world of Photography Geeks. In reality, it might feel like the third step forward, not just the first.
