I've got a GX680ii and 4 lenses. I took it on a shoot in Chester Zoo, England, hand held, well with a neck strap. It left me with a weird shape to my neck but you can't fault the camera. Absolutely out of this world. 🥰
I used the mark 1 GX680 for about ten years in my studio, beautiful camera for studio work great quality lens. Had to replace the bellows a few times but otherwise very reliable.
100% agree. I love mine. I have seen some negativity about this camera on youtube, because it's heavy, but for studio work, especially product work, it really shines. And with regard to the size, compare it to a typical 4x5 to get similar movements and this thing is suddenly not so big. Great video.
Great overview. I just bought a mamiya rb67 pro sd and lenses last year, so not really going to swap, even though its a much cheaper system. Hadn’t heard of this. It’s brilliant. Not sure how the lenses compare but these look as good as anything I’ve seen from Mamiya. Interesting to see a contemporary rather than retro look to the images. Not usually what is promoted with film photography these days.
Thank you for the overview! Hearing someone answer the phone with "studio" after not hearing that for about a year brought back memories! 6 years ago when I was in school I decided this was my dream camera, now that I'm looking to work in VFX after photo assisting for years I think it's a great time to start shooting film... maybe with this camera sooner than later! Seems like a joy to use and become familiar with.
Couldn't agree with you more. This is my favorite camera and I also have a Hasselblad 500CM, Rollei 6006 and Mamiya C330 Pro F. I have the first iteration with movements and then 6AA battery compartment. Incredibly sharp photos and then viewfinder is the brightest of all my medium formats. Thank you for the nice review. Maybe a review showing it on action doing landscapes? Or maybe I'll do one myself. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
Great set up, beautiful camera and really great shots. Love the fact that you are using it digitally in the studio. I am planning to do the same with my GX680II. Thanks 4 sharing.
Love this video! Completely agree. This camera is why the GFX is so good. My first camera was an Ansco 127 from the 1940s. I have used brownie, 6x9 folders. Rolleiflex, Pentax 645, 67, 67II and Arca Swiss 69. This 68 Fuji is a great camera. Much better imho than the RB and RZ 67. The problem with this camera is once you design the perfect studio 120 format camera it becomes too heavy for a lot of field work. The 43 aspect ratio and the contact sheets are easier to deal with than 67. For straight architecture I think the 69 Arca Swiss is more capable but for Studio work with film I agree this is the best. It is a bit weak on the wide angle side. Much as I love this camera I never bought one as my focus was on architecture. And will have to stick with the GFX 100 II. Again thanks for this!
Finally...A pro that actually uses this in pro settings. I've seen too many "Someone let me borrow this and watch how I struggle with it" videos. I currently shoot with a Mamiya 645 Pro and an old Voightlander Bessa II 6x9 folder (Which is capable of taking some amazing shots) but is limited to the one lens. I've been intrigued by this camera for a while and I'm glad I found your video. You also have a new subscriber. I'm also very intrigued by the ability to use digital backs on this camera. Can you provide some additional info on which backs are compatible - I think you mentioned the "Phase One" back. Are there others? - Thanks again. ***Updated - Sorry I should have looked at the comments below and I'm now watching your other video which discusses how to attach the Kapture back - Thanks again.
Hey Steve, glad you liked the video. I sold my P30 phase back and have not picked up a different back for it yet, so I have been shoot film with it for now. The hard part to getting a back for it is getting the Kapture adapter. I hope you have good luck finding one.
Hi Todd... thanks for the video! It is just a jacked up on steroids 4x8 camera! Pretty cool! Thanks for sharing some images... that is so important to see what the beast is capable of! )))
@@ToddEckelman90 One question, Todd. Do you use any exposure compensation for bellows extension? I know that for similar system, Mamiya RZ67, there is some compensation usually applied.
@@Dark_Viking There is a little compensation for the bellows extension. I found that it was not much for most things but when you have it fully extended you mighty need 1/2 a stop or more. They make extension add on rails and a longer bellows you can get as well. Then it really kicks in. It's great for close up work. I would get a polaroid back for it if you can find one and a good light meter as well. I hope that helps.
Thanks for your review of the Fuji Gx 680. How can I connect a strobe with the digital back to the camera?. The back is connected to the Kapture box. Thanks.
The main benefit is the speed that you can shoot and the 6x9 format. Loading 4x5 holder or using ready loads can be a real pain, especially on location and it's great for photography people as wells product. I am an advertising shooter so being able to shoot fast is key. 4x5 is really nice and I used it for years till this camera came out. I don't use it much any more, but If I pick up a new phase back for it I might use it more. The lenses are great for this camera. SUPER SHARP!
@@ToddEckelman90 yes, this is the main advantage, say over a baby linhof, still 6x9 (6.5x9 technically), but having the capability of roll film, so the ability to shoot 10 shots, over just one in 4x5", esp for fast paced studio work; and the ability to add the digital back, brings that glass into the modern workflow.
Hi Todd. Love the video. Thank you. Can you make another video to explain in more detail about why the Kapture Group adapter is needed and how it works? I just recently saw one for sale but not sure if it comes complete. It looks like you have a small adapter cable to attach to the digital back. I've seen other backs that have a cable from the flash sync port going directly to the back. Could I attach a cable from the back to the sync port, put the back in Bulb mode, then fire the camera with an original remote trigger attached to the camera's trigger port...and bypass the use of this Kapture Group adapter?
You didn´t mention that that camera is Multiformat, you can make 4.5x6, 6x6, 6x7 and 6x8 frames on the same film, and motor advance and viewfinder adapts to those formats automaticlly, you can put a 35mm back too. The pentaprism finder is for takes in football games with a 800mm lens that comes to be a 300mm lens in 35mm format, but not autofocus, and you have to go to the gym 3 months before each match, so you have to think about. !!
I believe he mentioned using a digital back w an adapter for shooting. However, I know what you are talking about. I have a 6x8 and a 6x7 back. I also have the remote trigger, 150 and 100mm lenses. This beastie has a lot of potential people don't realize. I used to take it w me when I went to Mt Rainier in Washington and had a number of great shots with it. Since I moved to Texas, inspiration has been a bit on the dry side. I thought about selling it lately...
I would never buy this camera but I 1000% appreciate you showing this beauty. Great detailed video showing its capabilities. I love all the Fuji medium format cameras (Own a GA645 and GSW690).
I was just looking at some jpegs that I generated after scanning Across II film shot with the GX680II and the 180mm 5.6... the sharpness and definition is awesome even for a jpeg
@@ToddEckelman90 No prob, I'm interested in getting a phase one digital back pre-owned and adapting it to a rollei 6008 camera or something else. I'm trying to figure out what camera system supports the newer phase one backs. Mathphotographer was able to get a phase one iq4 150mp back work on a mamiya rz67IID
I do shoot film through it every now and then. I have not tried any newer digital backs on it but I think they would work. I have tons of work that I have shot on it in the past. On my web site www.toddeckelman.com In portfolio section- w+k wall were shot with it and cropped to square.
Excellent video, many thanks. You've reminded me of the qualities of the GX680 and I'm wondering how you compare it to say a 4x5 view camera, or a Hasselblad 503/203 (film only) for a very small home studio for still life photography and a head & shoulders portraits. Cheers.
It"s a lot quicker to work with then 4X5 and the 6x8 format is great. Not much of a drop off from 4x5. I never really like my Hasselblad 503, I did like my H1 better but I still like the Fuji more when shooting film.
@@ToddEckelman90 Somebody is offering me a phaseOne H25, but the setback is I can't test it, because the Kapture fuji one shot box is practically impossible to find, I checked on eBay, and they probably appear once or twice a year, so they get immediatly snagged ! lol. I guess that starting with trying out 120mm film won't hurt and later scanning to print. Do you find that you still get better resolution on 120mm film rather than on the phaseOne p30? asking because the phaseOne h25 is the same digital back but can only be used for tethering shots. If 120mm is still delivering more resolution, than a p30 or a h25, then I would stick to 120mm instead, since in my case I can't get a hold of the Kapture fuji box. Thanks for any informative insight, you have a great set-up and taste !
The back I have is Phase one P30. I have an adapter that lets me mount the digital back onto the GX680 so you can capture digital images with this film camera. It is old now and only a 30 megapixel back. You can find them cheap used.
G'day Todd, I really enjoyed your review of the GX. I found your channel because I recently purchased one myself. I don't have a digital back, but I'm super pumped to put some film through it. In your experience, which lens would you say is your favourite for portraiture? Thanks mate.
Hi Todd, thank you for the video. I just bought one yesterday do you know wish batteries I need to buy to put under the camera, is a compartiment for 3 batteries, Best Claudio
Hi Todd Great review of your gear ! I am new to medium format and have been looking at the GX680 . I do have a couple questions if you would be kind enough to answer. 1. I am having a terrible time finding the Kapture Group OneShot adapter - can you recommend a source besides eBay or is there an alternative ? 2. Any photos I have seen using your setup have used Macs - What software are you using for the capture on the Mac and do you know if there a Windows equivalent ? Again, thank you for your excellent intro and review and am looking forward to more !!! :)
I am glad you like my review! Sorry I don't know of any other place then eBay to find the Kapture Group adapter. I got mine years ago when it was new. I use a Phase One back and Capture One software. I know Capture One will work on Windows. It is really good software for shooting tethered and just processing raw images. I hope this helps and the GX680 is a great camera!
@@ToddEckelman90 Great help ! Thank you again ! The camera gods must be smiling on me cause I found a store with the KG adapter - they are putting together a digital back solution for me as I write and my GX680 is en route from Japan ! :) I do have Capture One already - I totally agree with you ... solid software. Now it's just the agonizing wait ;)
Hey, I use CaptureOne software and it works on windows. You can go to their site and download a 30 day trial. Sorry I have not done a lot of research to find any other place to get the Kapture Group adapter. I got mine new about 15 or 20 years ago. You could try KEH.com they might have one or be able to help you. Good Luck
It's not so much the digital back as it is the adapter. The back I was using is a Phase P30, which I have now sold. A friend on mine is using a Phase P45 back on his. The adapters are hard to find. The company - Kapture Group Inc made the adapters, but they are no longer around. I hope you can find something that will work for you.
Hi Todd, I’ve been using one of these for about 6 months now and I’m interested in finding a digital back for one. Is it possible to get a modern/contemporary sensor for this camera or do you have to go for something 10 years old? What does the smaller aspect ratio of the digital sensor do to the focal length of the lens? If the only sensors available for this system aging, what would be the advantage to shooting with it vs something like a Sony A7riv (besides the technical lens)? Thanks! Enjoyed seeing this camera in a professional environment
Great review Todd 👏 I was thinking of getting this camera for a book and poster project but shot with film, one question what is the flash sync speed? Cheers! 🥃
I have a question. I have a gx680iii with a 50mm lens. My problem is I cannot focus sharp with it. I have a wide angle bellows on the camera. I haveno problem focusing using the othwr lenses. Do you have any suggestions?
Hi Eric, I have the 50mm lens and wide bellows as well. I found that it's not the sharpest lens shooting wide open but when I stop down to like f11 it was good. The other thing I would do is a focus test using some test panels. I print the test panels from off the web to 8x10, I do at least 4 and place them a foot apart from front to back. Focus on the middle one and see if the lens is front or back focusing. That way you know if the lens is just bad or the focusing is just a little off. I hope that helps.
I have a stupid question: How do you turn off the LCD on the III N roll film holder (back) to conserve battery? It remains "on" when my GX680 III is switched "off" and I can't find any answers in the manual. If I remove the batteries in-between shoots, the data stored in the film back (such as that which is printed on the film edge) is erased
I just have one back to test it with. I tried cleaning the electrical contacts and every combination of on/off I could think of. I guess mine must have a malfunction. Thank you for taking the time to test my issue on your camera and for responding. This video inspired me to buy my 680 III, I'm excited for my first shoot with it!
Thanks Todd. I agree with you opening comment, it is such a beautiful machine, but... I’m looking for a MF SLR to move up from my trusty TLR for architectural (mostly) and landscape purposes, and the 680 ticks many boxes, especially with tilt and shift. That in a ‘later days of film’ single lens, MF body, as far as I know is unique. The BUT though is the heft of the thing! It’d mean possibly a new tripod (Manfrotto 055 currently) but definitely a new head, which puts the price up. We all know of an idiot that might have one for sale though! 😂 Hmm, what to do? Have even considered 5x4 but I do like roll film! 🤔 That age old problem of wanting all things to all men!
It is a great camera and yes it is a little heavy, but it's worth it. I got my first GX680 back in the day of film to switch from shooting 4x5 and never went back. I still have my 4x5 system but have not looked at it in years. I have shot a lot of architectural projects with the GX680 and it worked great. Good luck with your decision.
Thanks again, Todd! Did you wider than an 65mm lens for your architectural work? I recall reading somewhere that the 50mm requires bag bellows, not that that’s too much of an issue. Seriously considering one now, even have an 8kg capacity tripod head in Wex’s basket! 😁
Hi Todd, I pulled the trigger on a 111 today with a prism, cable release and, interestingly, 80mm rails, something I haven’t seen for sale and definitely an asset! And 65mm lens, all in great condition. Can’t wait! Wish me luck!
Haha, this is exactly what it's like to work in a studio with an old pro. The equipment used to the be best, now it's workable, lots of weirdly specific little things you have to know to get everything to work. It's all ringing very true, haha.
I made my RZ PRO IID, the most powerfull 6x7, 330MB camera in the world, with my hand made sliding adaptor. Make that big boy a full 6x8 Digital camera. It would be mind blowing!
I agree that it is the best medium format camera larger than 6x6, because THE best medium SLR camera are Hasselblad which you also can handheld, back in the days when I worked as a pro it was Hasselblad 6x6 and large format 5"x4" and 7"x5" I used ;) The Hasselblad either handheld or on a tripod, off course the large format technical cameras allways on large, heavy studio tripods. Of lenses to Fuji GX680 there are 50, 65, 80, 100, 115, two 125, 135, 150, two 180, 190, 210, 250, 300 and 500mm primes.
You mean the best STUDIO m-f camera ever made. :-) if you actually want to carry it like a camera I’d rather think of a Fujifilm 670GFW / Voigtlander 667W.
jackson pine You do realize that large format has REAR movements too which this does not, and this is what I am referring to, right? This is vital and can add even more options. You try to keep up.
I am talking about Medium format not large format. There are great large format cameras and I have one. It's just too slow to use and carry around for the type of work I do. This camera is the best of both worlds in my opinion. Again I would like to say this is just my opinion.
Kyle Gallagher it may not be the only video, but the prices of lenses and bodies have skyrocketed by QUITE A BIT. lenses are a lot more expensive now and parts are becoming a little rarer.
great video, but one thing you didn't mention, this uses batteries, quite old ones, to use modern batteries (9V, not 5 V -think this is what the camera uses?) you need to modify the camera (diodes, etc.), this fact was brought to my attention by dave smith, a youtuber who used and did a two or three part review of this system ( th-cam.com/video/Yq-1zRBomt4/w-d-xo.html ).
@@Anarki2U I rather think this professional has been using a GX680 for a long time, and way before you even considered making your purchase. Every criticism you had of this camera in your hatchet job video "review", you could easily have found out before you made the purchase with a modicum of research.
I love my 4x5 as well, but when I got this camera I hardly used my 4x5 at all. That was back in the day when I still shot film. I need to run some film through both of them. It's been a while.
I love this camera. Althoug hit currently sits in a case for most of its life at the moment. But would have to disagree. The mamiya 7ii is the best medium format camera for walking around. The RZII for studio work ( i often have a phase back on there). Mamiya lenses are just spectacular., For product work i would say the sinar P2 with a digital back
I've got a GX680ii and 4 lenses. I took it on a shoot in Chester Zoo, England, hand held, well with a neck strap. It left me with a weird shape to my neck but you can't fault the camera. Absolutely out of this world. 🥰
Might be permanent 😂
Are you sure it was the Camera and not the price to get in lol. You're a brave man to carry that around. But the GX680 was an amazing camera.
I used the mark 1 GX680 for about ten years in my studio, beautiful camera for studio work great quality lens.
Had to replace the bellows a few times but otherwise very reliable.
Yes, very reliable and great in the studio. I also shoot a ton on location with it.
100% agree. I love mine. I have seen some negativity about this camera on youtube, because it's heavy, but for studio work, especially product work, it really shines. And with regard to the size, compare it to a typical 4x5 to get similar movements and this thing is suddenly not so big. Great video.
Thanks, glad you liked it. It is an awesome camera.
Great overview. I just bought a mamiya rb67 pro sd and lenses last year, so not really going to swap, even though its a much cheaper system. Hadn’t heard of this. It’s brilliant. Not sure how the lenses compare but these look as good as anything I’ve seen from Mamiya. Interesting to see a contemporary rather than retro look to the images. Not usually what is promoted with film photography these days.
they are said to be excellent...
Thank you for the overview! Hearing someone answer the phone with "studio" after not hearing that for about a year brought back memories! 6 years ago when I was in school I decided this was my dream camera, now that I'm looking to work in VFX after photo assisting for years I think it's a great time to start shooting film... maybe with this camera sooner than later! Seems like a joy to use and become familiar with.
if you are stuck in studio maybe, but medium format mirrorless digital is way better IMHO.
Aside from the camera, this video was very informative and your intro was very cinematic ! Looking forward to buy this camera myself too!
Couldn't agree with you more. This is my favorite camera and I also have a Hasselblad 500CM, Rollei 6006 and Mamiya C330 Pro F. I have the first iteration with movements and then 6AA battery compartment. Incredibly sharp photos and then viewfinder is the brightest of all my medium formats. Thank you for the nice review. Maybe a review showing it on action doing landscapes? Or maybe I'll do one myself. Thanks again and keep up the good work.
Thanks. I might have to do video showing it in action out on location.
Hi Todd,
I really enjoyed your take on the Fuji GX680. I'm looking forward for more content like this.
Thanks. Working on a new one now.
Excellent walk through and yes, I've used one in Madrid for BDDP and the results were phenomenal!
Jim looking forward to more videos from you!
Thanks!
Great set up, beautiful camera and really great shots. Love the fact that you are using it digitally in the studio. I am planning to do the same with my GX680II. Thanks 4 sharing.
Thanks! Have fun with your GX680.
Love this video! Completely agree. This camera is why the GFX is so good. My first camera was an Ansco 127 from the 1940s. I have used brownie, 6x9 folders. Rolleiflex, Pentax 645, 67, 67II and Arca Swiss 69. This 68 Fuji is a great camera. Much better imho than the RB and RZ 67.
The problem with this camera is once you design the perfect studio 120 format camera it becomes too heavy for a lot of field work.
The 43 aspect ratio and the contact sheets are easier to deal with than 67.
For straight architecture I think the 69 Arca Swiss is more capable but for Studio work with film I agree this is the best. It is a bit weak on the wide angle side.
Much as I love this camera I never bought one as my focus was on architecture. And will have to stick with the GFX 100 II.
Again thanks for this!
Glad you liked the video!
quick and ... clean! perfect review.
Thanks
@@ToddEckelman90 including a tilt-tutorial for absolute beginners! most comprehensive ever!
so happy to have found a pro who loves this camera too. great explanation ! thx for the video!
+++👍
Just looking at this rather than building up a 4x5. It looks wonderful! Thank you for the over view
You are welcome!
Amazing camera!
Yes, it is. I wish I still used on more of my jobs.
Finally...A pro that actually uses this in pro settings. I've seen too many "Someone let me borrow this and watch how I struggle with it" videos. I currently shoot with a Mamiya 645 Pro and an old Voightlander Bessa II 6x9 folder (Which is capable of taking some amazing shots) but is limited to the one lens. I've been intrigued by this camera for a while and I'm glad I found your video. You also have a new subscriber. I'm also very intrigued by the ability to use digital backs on this camera. Can you provide some additional info on which backs are compatible - I think you mentioned the "Phase One" back. Are there others? - Thanks again. ***Updated - Sorry I should have looked at the comments below and I'm now watching your other video which discusses how to attach the Kapture back - Thanks again.
Hey Steve, glad you liked the video. I sold my P30 phase back and have not picked up a different back for it yet, so I have been shoot film with it for now. The hard part to getting a back for it is getting the Kapture adapter. I hope you have good luck finding one.
I just bought this. Can’t wait to try it out
Great, have some fun with it!
Hi Todd... thanks for the video! It is just a jacked up on steroids 4x8 camera! Pretty cool! Thanks for sharing some images... that is so important to see what the beast is capable of! )))
Thanks
Great video and great camera
It is a great camera. I wish I used it more.
Thanks Todd, great video, that was the final bit of knowledge I needed to go ahead and get one
Love all 3 of mine.
Hey Todd, great video inspiring
Hey Justin, Thanks
I hope to own this camera one day. A friend of mines fascinated me with it.
Get one if you can! You will love it.
Thanks for this review. I've ordered this camera just recently.
I think you will love it.!
@@ToddEckelman90 will see in a few days )) I'm new in film photography and need to learn hell a lot.
@@Dark_Viking It will be fun with the GX680
@@ToddEckelman90 One question, Todd.
Do you use any exposure compensation for bellows extension? I know that for similar system, Mamiya RZ67, there is some compensation usually applied.
@@Dark_Viking There is a little compensation for the bellows extension. I found that it was not much for most things but when you have it fully extended you mighty need 1/2 a stop or more. They make extension add on rails and a longer bellows you can get as well. Then it really kicks in. It's great for close up work. I would get a polaroid back for it if you can find one and a good light meter as well.
I hope that helps.
Thanks for your review of the Fuji Gx 680. How can I connect a strobe with the digital back to the camera?. The back is connected to the Kapture box. Thanks.
Hey Vincent, I use a PocketWizard on the hot shoe to trigger the strobes.
Great videos. Just wondered what the exposure compensation would be with the bellows out?
There was not a lot of compensation, maybe 1/4 or 1/2 stop at the most.
great video, always loved this camera
Great video! I love that you demonstrate the tilt shift. This camera is awesome. What would be the benefits of using this over a large format?
The main benefit is the speed that you can shoot and the 6x9 format. Loading 4x5 holder or using ready loads can be a real pain, especially on location and it's great for photography people as wells product. I am an advertising shooter so being able to shoot fast is key. 4x5 is really nice and I used it for years till this camera came out. I don't use it much any more, but If I pick up a new phase back for it I might use it more. The lenses are great for this camera. SUPER SHARP!
@@ToddEckelman90 yes, this is the main advantage, say over a baby linhof, still 6x9 (6.5x9 technically), but having the capability of roll film, so the ability to shoot 10 shots, over just one in 4x5", esp for fast paced studio work; and the ability to add the digital back, brings that glass into the modern workflow.
Hi Todd. Love the video. Thank you. Can you make another video to explain in more detail about why the Kapture Group adapter is needed and how it works? I just recently saw one for sale but not sure if it comes complete. It looks like you have a small adapter cable to attach to the digital back. I've seen other backs that have a cable from the flash sync port going directly to the back. Could I attach a cable from the back to the sync port, put the back in Bulb mode, then fire the camera with an original remote trigger attached to the camera's trigger port...and bypass the use of this Kapture Group adapter?
Hey, I will try and put something out this week for you. I do believe you need the cables, but I will play around with it a little.
Absolutely like it including your jobs ...
Thanks!
You didn´t mention that that camera is Multiformat, you can make 4.5x6, 6x6, 6x7 and 6x8 frames on the same film, and motor advance and viewfinder adapts to those formats automaticlly, you can put a 35mm back too. The pentaprism finder is for takes in football games with a 800mm lens that comes to be a 300mm lens in 35mm format, but not autofocus, and you have to go to the gym 3 months before each match, so you have to think about. !!
I believe he mentioned using a digital back w an adapter for shooting. However, I know what you are talking about. I have a 6x8 and a 6x7 back. I also have the remote trigger, 150 and 100mm lenses. This beastie has a lot of potential people don't realize. I used to take it w me when I went to Mt Rainier in Washington and had a number of great shots with it. Since I moved to Texas, inspiration has been a bit on the dry side. I thought about selling it lately...
I would never buy this camera but I 1000% appreciate you showing this beauty. Great detailed video showing its capabilities. I love all the Fuji medium format cameras (Own a GA645 and GSW690).
I was just looking at some jpegs that I generated after scanning Across II film shot with the GX680II and the 180mm 5.6... the sharpness and definition is awesome even for a jpeg
That 180mm is a great lens!
Nice overview, thanks. I wish this was available to rent. I'd like to give it a whirl.
Thanks. It’s a great camera.
Great, I like the idea to work with PhaseOne
Great review. I like your professionalism in that clients come first
Thanks!
What a beast
That shutter sound... Wow
Do you know if this camera can support the newer 100mp or 150mp phase one digital backs
I did not know that. Thanks for the info!
@@ToddEckelman90 No prob, I'm interested in getting a phase one digital back pre-owned and adapting it to a rollei 6008 camera or something else. I'm trying to figure out what camera system supports the newer phase one backs. Mathphotographer was able to get a phase one iq4 150mp back work on a mamiya rz67IID
@@Nordicus0114 That would be nice to get it to work with the rollei.
love it
Thanks!
Hey Tod love this video what is the phase back you are using ?
I was using the Phase P30 back, but I recently sold it.
Thanks. What focusing screen do you use with the Phase One Back? Where can I get this screen?
Good presentation of that nice camera! Unfortunately a little bit too large and heavy for hiking…
You need batteries to shot film?
Thanks for the review! Great work! Do you shoot film with it? Do you have any examples? Can you fit newer digital backs on it?
I do shoot film through it every now and then. I have not tried any newer digital backs on it but I think they would work.
I have tons of work that I have shot on it in the past. On my web site www.toddeckelman.com
In portfolio section- w+k wall were shot with it and cropped to square.
Todd Eckelman Thanks! Great work!
Excellent video, many thanks. You've reminded me of the qualities of the GX680 and I'm wondering how you compare it to say a 4x5 view camera, or a Hasselblad 503/203 (film only) for a very small home studio for still life photography and a head & shoulders portraits. Cheers.
It"s a lot quicker to work with then 4X5 and the 6x8 format is great. Not much of a drop off from 4x5. I never really like my Hasselblad 503, I did like my H1 better but I still like the Fuji more when shooting film.
Great upload ! The commercial work photos you show us at the end, were they done with the digital back p30, or with film?
Glad you liked it! The Nike shots are shot on film and the B&W shots and car shot are done with a PhaseOne P30 digital back.
@@ToddEckelman90 Somebody is offering me a phaseOne H25, but the setback is I can't test it, because the Kapture fuji one shot box is practically impossible to find, I checked on eBay, and they probably appear once or twice a year, so they get immediatly snagged ! lol. I guess that starting with trying out 120mm film won't hurt and later scanning to print. Do you find that you still get better resolution on 120mm film rather than on the phaseOne p30? asking because the phaseOne h25 is the same digital back but can only be used for tethering shots. If 120mm is still delivering more resolution, than a p30 or a h25, then I would stick to 120mm instead, since in my case I can't get a hold of the Kapture fuji box. Thanks for any informative insight, you have a great set-up and taste !
So I'm new to the idea of a phase back, what is it and how does it compare to a regular digital back?
The back I have is Phase one P30. I have an adapter that lets me mount the digital back onto the GX680 so you can capture digital images with this film camera. It is old now and only a 30 megapixel back. You can find them cheap used.
G'day Todd, I really enjoyed your review of the GX. I found your channel because I recently purchased one myself. I don't have a digital back, but I'm super pumped to put some film through it. In your experience, which lens would you say is your favourite for portraiture? Thanks mate.
I really like 125mm the best. 2nd would be 180mm
Todd Eckelman Thanks. I don’t have the 125, but I’ve got the 180, so I’ll give that a whirl.
I think either 125mm 3.2 or 180mm 3.2 will do fine :) Not the 125mm 5.6 or 180mm 5.6, yes there are two differnet of each !
Hi Todd, thank you for the video. I just bought one yesterday do you know wish batteries I need to buy to put under the camera, is a compartiment for 3 batteries, Best Claudio
CR123 batteries
Thank YOU!!@@ToddEckelman90
Really good review and I have watched many :)
Hey, thanks!
That shutter sound is pure porn
Great Video. Can you tell me how you made that remote release? (They are quit rare and expensive for the iii models, but I definetly need one)
It came with the Kapture group adapter when I got it.. I don't know how to make one or where to find one. Sorry.
Todd Eckelman Alright, thanks for the quick respond.
Great review!! thanks for sharing :)
Thanks
Hi Todd
Great review of your gear ! I am new to medium format and have been looking at the GX680 . I do have a couple questions if you would be kind enough to answer. 1. I am having a terrible time finding the Kapture Group OneShot adapter - can you recommend a source besides eBay or is there an alternative ? 2. Any photos I have seen using your setup have used Macs - What software are you using for the capture on the Mac and do you know if there a Windows equivalent ? Again, thank you for your excellent intro and review and am looking forward to more !!! :)
I am glad you like my review! Sorry I don't know of any other place then eBay to find the Kapture Group adapter. I got mine years ago when it was new.
I use a Phase One back and Capture One software. I know Capture One will work on Windows. It is really good software for shooting tethered and just processing raw images. I hope this helps and the GX680 is a great camera!
@@ToddEckelman90 Great help ! Thank you again ! The camera gods must be smiling on me cause I found a store with the KG adapter - they are putting together a digital back solution for me as I write and my GX680 is en route from Japan ! :) I do have Capture One already - I totally agree with you ... solid software. Now it's just the agonizing wait ;)
@@machbeowulf That's great and I hate waiting as well!
These guys are up on the GX680 series, the owner Mir Lada is really helpful and very knowledgable.
www.boasolutions.com/about-mir-lada
Hey,
I use CaptureOne software and it works on windows. You can go to their site and download a 30 day trial. Sorry I have not done a lot of research to find any other place to get the Kapture Group adapter. I got mine new about 15 or 20 years ago. You could try KEH.com they might have one or be able to help you. Good Luck
What other digital backs are compatible?
It's not so much the digital back as it is the adapter. The back I was using is a Phase P30, which I have now sold. A friend on mine is using a Phase P45 back on his. The adapters are hard to find. The company - Kapture Group Inc made the adapters, but they are no longer around. I hope you can find something that will work for you.
Do you recommend anything specific as far as flash for these?
I use Profoto strobes and would recommend them, but you can use anything kind you might have.
@@ToddEckelman90 true, thanks.
Beautiful bit of kit! I was just looking at one on ebay, nearly pulled the trigger on it... but that size...
It is big, but I still love the camera and the lenses are so sharp. I used this camera in the studio and on location for years.
Hi Todd, I’ve been using one of these for about 6 months now and I’m interested in finding a digital back for one. Is it possible to get a modern/contemporary sensor for this camera or do you have to go for something 10 years old? What does the smaller aspect ratio of the digital sensor do to the focal length of the lens? If the only sensors available for this system aging, what would be the advantage to shooting with it vs something like a Sony A7riv (besides the technical lens)? Thanks! Enjoyed seeing this camera in a professional environment
did you ever find a back?
Great review Todd 👏 I was thinking of getting this camera for a book and poster project but shot with film, one question what is the flash sync speed? Cheers! 🥃
The flash sync speed is up to 1/400.
I have a question. I have a gx680iii with a 50mm lens. My problem is I cannot focus sharp with it. I have a wide angle bellows on the camera. I haveno problem focusing using the othwr lenses. Do you have any suggestions?
Hi Eric,
I have the 50mm lens and wide bellows as well. I found that it's not the sharpest lens shooting wide open but when I stop down to like f11 it was good.
The other thing I would do is a focus test using some test panels. I print the test panels from off the web to 8x10, I do at least 4 and place them a foot apart from front to back. Focus on the middle one and see if the lens is front or back focusing. That way you know if the lens is just bad or the focusing is just a little off. I hope that helps.
I have a stupid question: How do you turn off the LCD on the III N roll film holder (back) to conserve battery? It remains "on" when my GX680 III is switched "off" and I can't find any answers in the manual. If I remove the batteries in-between shoots, the data stored in the film back (such as that which is printed on the film edge) is erased
When I turn my camera off the back shuts off and I tried it with all my backs and they all shut off. Sorry I have no Idea what to tell you.
I just have one back to test it with. I tried cleaning the electrical contacts and every combination of on/off I could think of. I guess mine must have a malfunction. Thank you for taking the time to test my issue on your camera and for responding. This video inspired me to buy my 680 III, I'm excited for my first shoot with it!
Thanks Todd. I agree with you opening comment, it is such a beautiful machine, but...
I’m looking for a MF SLR to move up from my trusty TLR for architectural (mostly) and landscape purposes, and the 680 ticks many boxes, especially with tilt and shift. That in a ‘later days of film’ single lens, MF body, as far as I know is unique. The BUT though is the heft of the thing! It’d mean possibly a new tripod (Manfrotto 055 currently) but definitely a new head, which puts the price up. We all know of an idiot that might have one for sale though! 😂
Hmm, what to do? Have even considered 5x4 but I do like roll film! 🤔 That age old problem of wanting all things to all men!
It is a great camera and yes it is a little heavy, but it's worth it.
I got my first GX680 back in the day of film to switch from shooting 4x5 and never went back. I still have my 4x5 system but have not looked at it in years. I have shot a lot of architectural projects with the GX680 and it worked great.
Good luck with your decision.
Thanks again, Todd!
Did you wider than an 65mm lens for your architectural work? I recall reading somewhere that the 50mm requires bag bellows, not that that’s too much of an issue.
Seriously considering one now, even have an 8kg capacity tripod head in Wex’s basket! 😁
@@simonh8748 I have the 50mm and bag bellows which you do need sometimes.
Hi Todd,
I pulled the trigger on a 111 today with a prism, cable release and, interestingly, 80mm rails, something I haven’t seen for sale and definitely an asset! And 65mm lens, all in great condition. Can’t wait! Wish me luck!
Good luck. Let me know how it's working when you get it.
Haha, this is exactly what it's like to work in a studio with an old pro. The equipment used to the be best, now it's workable, lots of weirdly specific little things you have to know to get everything to work. It's all ringing very true, haha.
It is a little tricky, that for sure. :)
I made my RZ PRO IID, the most powerfull 6x7, 330MB camera in the world, with my hand made sliding adaptor. Make that big boy a full 6x8 Digital camera. It would be mind blowing!
Wow.
Great!
Thanks!
nice
Simon Peter Green Thanks!
Fuji final boss.
I really like my GX680 but it hasn't been nearly as reliable as my Hasselblad V cameras.
And its too heavy to take out of the Studio...
THE BEST MEDIUM FORMAT CAMERA...for studio work
This is clearly not meant for amature photographers. Looks like this will be my small / portable camera soon.
(normally shoot 8x10" or bigger)
lol this is just as heavy if not heavier.
I agree that it is the best medium format camera larger than 6x6, because THE best medium SLR camera are Hasselblad which you also can handheld, back in the days when I worked as a pro it was Hasselblad 6x6 and large format 5"x4" and 7"x5" I used ;) The Hasselblad either handheld or on a tripod, off course the large format technical cameras allways on large, heavy studio tripods.
Of lenses to Fuji GX680 there are 50, 65, 80, 100, 115, two 125, 135, 150, two 180, 190, 210, 250, 300 and 500mm primes.
You mean the best STUDIO m-f camera ever made. :-) if you actually want to carry it like a camera I’d rather think of a Fujifilm 670GFW / Voigtlander 667W.
It’s like an RZ 67 ........ but it goes to 11
a "little" agency called wieden and kennedy lol
Large format would be betTer with its movements, no?
jackson pine
You do realize that large format has REAR movements too which this does not, and this is what I am referring to, right? This is vital and can add even more options.
You try to keep up.
I am talking about Medium format not large format. There are great large format cameras and I have one. It's just too slow to use and carry around for the type of work I do. This camera is the best of both worlds in my opinion. Again I would like to say this is just my opinion.
I would say as studio camera, yes. For on location with anything handheld, it’s just too ungainly.
Why did you have to jack up the price of this camera? IT WAS A HIDDEN GEM. good review though :)
Sorry about that!
I mean I already have a 680II and a 680 so this is a non issue, but the lenses are all jumping in price too now.
I don't think his video is the one that started this?
Kyle Gallagher it may not be the only video, but the prices of lenses and bodies have skyrocketed by QUITE A BIT. lenses are a lot more expensive now and parts are becoming a little rarer.
@@VizionzBlur yeah but there's this other idiot this Tod's video is a response to, that's what I was implying
Actually it is the best SLR ever made
What’s the purpose of shooting digitally with a film camera?
great video, but one thing you didn't mention, this uses batteries, quite old ones, to use modern batteries (9V, not 5 V -think this is what the camera uses?) you need to modify the camera (diodes, etc.), this fact was brought to my attention by dave smith, a youtuber who used and did a two or three part review of this system ( th-cam.com/video/Yq-1zRBomt4/w-d-xo.html ).
oh my god i inspired someone to do something better than me
You wish, noob !
@@Anarki2U I rather think this professional has been using a GX680 for a long time, and way before you even considered making your purchase. Every criticism you had of this camera in your hatchet job video "review", you could easily have found out before you made the purchase with a modicum of research.
and I thought my rb67 was a beast ...
If you ever want to give it away to a very passionate me, let me know.....
I will let you know if I ever want to do that.
that's an awful lot of camera to not have 6x9
Talk about over engineered. I'm saying that coming from somebody who loves shoot 4x5.
I love my 4x5 as well, but when I got this camera I hardly used my 4x5 at all. That was back in the day when I still shot film. I need to run some film through both of them. It's been a while.
i think this is a machine, not a camera.
I love this camera. Althoug hit currently sits in a case for most of its life at the moment. But would have to disagree. The mamiya 7ii is the best medium format camera for walking around. The RZII for studio work ( i often have a phase back on there). Mamiya lenses are just spectacular., For product work i would say the sinar P2 with a digital back