Just to add to the previous discussion re the 645vs. 6x7: I would like to note that my reaction to the first contact sheets I got back from the first rolls I shot with my recently purchased 645n was one of shocked surprise. I expected the results to be sharp ... but not THAT sharp. I expected the colours to be good ... but not THAT good (I used Fuji NPH 400 by the way).
I also used the multiple exposure feature and was pleasantly surprised at how well things worked out. I also tested the matrix metering by taking some very difficult exposures, e.g. with shadows and bright in the same frame, etc. and they came out exactly how I would have wanted them had I spot-metered and exposed them manually. Data-imprinting is really a cool feature, particularly since I am brutal at keeping my own notes. Unlike others, for my shooting requirements I don't need a removable back and love the "inserts" system, which speeds loading considerably. I would recommend getting a few of these, as they take some of the drudgery out of using roll film (I have four of them). If the next iteration of the 645n came with a removable back, I frankly doubt that I would buy it, given the extra complexity, cost and weight that would add. All in all, a GREAT camera system (I use only three lenses (35mm, 75mm and 150mm, along with extension tubes). I am very excited about the possibilities this camera has opened up for me. I have noted in particular that when using it I find it simple to operate and therefore much easier to forget about the equipment and focus on the shot. That, to me, is the sign of a very good camera (and something I feel is very true of the LX too). Although I can't recommend the 645n highly enough, I hasten to add I have no doubt that a 6x7 in the right hands (and with the right eyes) can do wondrous things, too, but the most important consideration for me in medium format was that the camera be of a size where, before going out shooting, I don't find myself thinking, "Oh shit, do I really have to lug that damn thing around again?" I owned a Bronica 6x6 camera (basically a poor man's Hassie) for a while and, while it worked very well, I knew that my relationship with the camera wouldn't last long since I very quickly took to referring to the camera as my "boat anchor". :-) The weight issue is one you should not take lightly, so to speak. NEW from Yahoo! GeoCities - quick and easy web site hosting, just $8.95/month. http://geocities.yahoo.com/ps/info1 - This message is from the Pentax-Discuss Mail List. To unsubscribe, go to http://www.pdml.net and follow the directions. Don't forget to visit the Pentax Users' Gallery at http://pug.komkon.org .
