I am in the process of steping up to medium format and can't decide between 6x4.5 or 6x7. I don't currently make any prints larger than 11x14, would I be able to see a difference between the two formats at this enlargment? What if I decide to go up to 16x20? Any input would be helpful, thanks.

-- david podorson (podeman@aol.com), March 14, 1999

Answers

For 16*20, I would without any doubt choose for 6*7. It's a nice format, very good on A4, not that dull as 6*4.5 - but that is personal. But it is even a whole lot larger than 6*6. It presents in slide-form very well to a client, better than even 6*6, in case you work professional/commercial.

-- Lot (lotw@wxs.nl), March 14, 1999.

Hello David

I started out with 645 and augmented it with a 67 system later. If I could only have one MF system I'll go for the 67. The cost of the lenses for a 67 system is not a lot more than that for the 645. You can kit yourself out for about the same price. If you do not do much fill flash or studio work, that is if you're not bothered by a 30th sec flash sync (there is a leaf shutter 165mm lens available), I recommend the Pentax 67 Mark 2 highly. It handles really well, and the lenses are sharp and fast, . Even if you currently do 11X14 the extra quality and tonality of the 67 film will be worth it.

-- rene (renequan@bigfoot.com), March 17, 1999.

I have both 6x6 (virtually the same as 645 when cropped to an 11x14 rectangle) and 6x7 systems. Although I have not tried systematic testing, my firm impression is that at 11x14 there is no appreciable difference between the two.

-- Chris Patti (cmpatti@aol.com), March 19, 1999.

Look for a 6X7 camera with interchangable backs that offers different format backs. I use a Bronica GS-1 that offers 6X7, 6X6 and 645 backs in both 120 & 220. This gives you the option of the larger format for quality or smaller for economy.

-- David Marx (karma3@nidlink.com), April 21, 1999.

I have a Mamiya 645Pro outfit for personal use and use a Hasselblad and a Bronica GS-1 6x7 at work. I much prefer the 645 because of it's flexibility. I can use it in any situation that a 35mm would. The Hassy is clunky to use in the field, and the GS-1 weighs as much as a Buick! My 16x20 images look great. Granted, 6x7 gives you a marginal enlarging edge, but not much.

-- John Coates (bronco@ncinternet.net), September 08, 1999.