Pentax 645

[DarkPenguin]

I've an odd desire to play with MF photography (I wonder why?) but I've no idea what I'm doing.

I see Pentax 645 bodies for cheap (they are quite old, after all) and they look like a nice way to get my feet wet.

So, is an old 645 worth getting?  (They go for about $300.)  And what is the "crop factor" of 6x4.5?  .6?

Course this will probably end up being the better part of the cost of a 30D.

[michael]

Very fine cameras and lenses.

Just be aware that they don't have interchangable backs, and thefore can't be used for digital.

645 uses 120 roll film. The image size is about double full-frame 35mm.

Pentax will be bringing out a 645 digital camera later this year that will take exisiting lenses, so a start now with a used body would get you into the game.

Michael

[lbergman]

For a MF system with interchangable backs, would that include Contax and Mamiya?

[DarkPenguin]

Thank you for the information.