Medium format

Medium format has traditionally referred to a film format in photography and the related cameras and equipment that use film. Today, the term also applies to both film and digital cameras that capture images on media larger than the 24 mm × 36 mm (0.94 in × 1.42 in) size used in 35 mm photography, but smaller than 4 in × 5 in (100 mm × 130 mm), which is known as large format photography.

In the world of digital photography, medium format describes cameras that either come from medium-format film photography or use sensors bigger than a 35 mm film frame. These cameras offer some great advantages, such as higher resolution sensors, better performance in low-light conditions compared to a regular 35 mm DSLR, and a wider range of tones in images. This makes medium format useful for professional photographers who need very detailed and high-quality pictures.

Characteristics

Since the 1950s, medium-format cameras have had fewer automatic features than smaller cameras. For example, autofocus became common in small cameras in 1977 but did not appear in medium-format cameras until much later.

The biggest advantage of medium-format photography is the larger size of the film or digital sensor. It can be two to six times bigger than a small camera’s sensor. This allows for clearer and more detailed pictures, perfect for making large prints without losing quality. The larger size also gives photographers more control over how much of the scene is in focus.

Medium-format cameras often include special features like a bellows that lets the lens move closer to the film. This can help create deep focus in landscape photos.

However, medium-format cameras can be harder to find and more expensive than smaller ones. They are usually bigger and bulkier, and loading the film can be more complicated. Most medium-format cameras use a special kind of film called 120 film, which is still available but not as common as the film used in smaller cameras. Some older cameras used a different film called 620, but it is no longer made.

Medium-format cameras can capture images in different sizes, such as 6×6 cm (square) or 6×4.5 cm (rectangular). Some cameras can even switch between these sizes. Certain professional cameras can also use very long rolls of film for special purposes.

System cameras

Many professional medium-format cameras are system cameras. This means they have different parts that you can swap out. Like regular cameras, they usually work with many kinds of lenses. But medium-format system cameras can also change their winding mechanisms, viewfinders, and camera backs. This makes them very flexible, which is great for photographers.

Digital medium format

Digital photography entered the medium-format world with the creation of digital camera backs. These backs attach to many cameras and contain electronic sensors, turning a camera into a digital one. They are mainly used by professional photographers.

Because the imaging chip in these backs is larger, they provide clearer images than regular consumer cameras.

This type of camera back began in 1992 when Leaf Systems Inc introduced their first digital back. Over the years, many companies made these backs, but by the 2000s, some stopped because digital SLRs became popular. Today, brands like Hasselblad and Phase One continue to make high-quality medium-format digital cameras. These cameras can capture very detailed images, making them great for professional work.

Low-budget medium-format cameras

While most professional medium-format cameras cost a lot, some cheaper plastic cameras are becoming popular. Cameras like the Diana and Holga are liked for their creative results. These were once called toy cameras, but now they are seen as a real choice for people who want to try something different.

Lower cost medium-format cameras like the Diana F+ and Belair X 6-12 are sold by the Austrian Lomography company. In 2007, Lomography brought back the 1960s Diana camera with the Diana F+ camera. This is a system camera that lets photographers try different lenses, flashes, and film backs. These cameras have plastic lenses and can create interesting light leaks and colors. Because of the popularity of the Lomography style, medium-format photography has become more popular with amateur photographers.

Twin-lens reflex cameras (TLRs) and folders without distortion or light leaks can be found on the used market for similar prices. The Chinese Seagull TLR and medium-format cameras from the former Soviet Union, such as the Russian Lubitel and the Ukrainian Kiev-Arsenal 60 and 88, are also available at moderate prices. These cameras can produce quality images, though they are not as advanced as those from Swedish, German, and Japanese makers. Depending on the condition, they can create images that range from a fun, creative style to ones closer to professional quality. In 2008, Lomography also brought back the Lubitel with the Lubitel 166+, a remake of the original 1946 Lubitel camera with some new features.

Since 2014, Lomography has made a medium format version of the Soviet-original Lomo LC-A camera, called the Lomo LC-A 120, as a compact choice for medium format photographers.

Used folding cameras, TLRs, and box cameras are also a budget-friendly way to shoot medium format. Many U.S.-made folders, including most mass-produced Kodak folders, use the older 620 film, so users may need to respool 120 films or adjust the film spool to fit.

Open source 3D printed cameras

Some people have made cameras using 3D printing. One example is called K-Pan. Another is Dora Goodman Cameras, which makes medium format cameras and also works with 35mm and large format cameras. These cameras can use special lenses and film backs from a company named Mamiya.