Sorry but ‘the poor man’s Hasselblad’ sells this camera short. I have used both. As a former ETRS user in the 1980s, I would have a Bronica SQ over a ‘blad every time. There’s nothing at all wrong with the Hasselblad. But the Bronica gives nothing away to it in any department.
@tyvek05 hasselblad is overrated piece of shit.. Well not litterally. But its overrated. Im a swede and have come across some hasselblads, and I own a ridiculous amount of bronica cameras and parts. And the optics are directly comparable to some hasselblads, so please enlighten me in what way hasselblad is superior? Is it the brand itself that fools you? I think the hasselblad is like bmw or rolex, just a flashy name for something that others can do aswell. Imo
It is uncanny how every time I start to get interested in another camera type I find that you have only just done a review! This has happened with the OM1, OM4Ti, Olympus 35 RD, Pentax LX and now the SQ-A. This, as always is a measured assessment and presented in a very calm fashion, exactly matching the style of thoughtful photography that you are portraying.
Thanks so much for the videos. Have been enjoying the the series and you give great information. I use the rich man’s Bronica SQ-A and simply love the 6 x 6 format. The Bronica has never been seen as a poor quality substitute, just a cheaper price point.
Am I crazy? My SQ-A's multiple exposure lever works exactly the other way around, exactly like one would suspect. The Red dot is indicating that ME is active.
When I was at high school one of my teachers had a Bronica SQ-A system, and I thought it was an amazing thing! I had been introduced to photography through my great Uncle’s Rolleiflex (which I inherited, and still use), and used my own Pentax ME Super. I decided I would like to have a Bronica...until I saw the cost! 30 years later and at last I now have my own SQ-A system, and I love it. I had the AE prism, grip etc, but thought they made the camera too big and heavy, so I prefer to use it without the grip, and with the waist level finder. I thought your video and images were excellent, and a great reminder why a Bronica is an excellent alternative to a Hasselblad system. Thank you again for your very professional videos.
Thank you so much for taking the time to present this review. It was refreshingly calm, thorough, covered all the right information and was presented in a relaxed, adult manner which I appreciate. All the best to you.
Loved learning about the history behind this beautiful camera. Super cool that being from Philadelphia myself, I now know it was unveiled to the world here!
I just wanted to let you know that your videos have inspired two purchases of mine so far: a Leica iiif (which I’ve used for almost a year, and absolutely love), and most recently a Super-Takumar 50mm f1.4 (8 element) with accompanying Pentax Spotmatic ... I’m almost afraid to watch each new episode b/c it might lead to another purchase 😅 Definitely a testament to the quality of your videos 🍻 The reverent tone with which you introduce and explain each subject, the follow up examination and testing, sample shots, thoughts, ect., are a real joy.
Thanks for your comment. What was meant is no 6x6 alternative. The RZ67 can be used with a dedicated 6x6 back is well but is then significantly larger and heavier than the Bronica here. :)
True Story, the dark slide is annoying af ! I adjust everthing and then i realize i forgot the darkslide just when i want to shoot... but its cool the camera doesnt release the shutter when the dark slide is still in... the mamiya rb67 does it regardless of the darkslide...
Can you do a video on metering and light meter usage? I would really be interested in that, and you seem to know a lot about it. If you've already done it, sorry, I couldn't find it.
i was hunting for a while for an affordable SLR medium format camera, i used to own the yashica mat 124g but sold it years ago. it's crazy how prices have skyrocketed the last couple of years! almost 4x waht they used to be in 2010. i managed to find a near mint condition bronica EC. Seems like it's not as nice as some other bronica models, (doesn';t have leaf shutter and has an electronic shutter control) but for the price i think it is good. it's very hard to find ANY information on that specific camera body however.
I was a wedding photographer and had two SQ A's. Loved working in the square format, however I sold them to go to a digital format with Canon. They were great cameras.
Thanks for the nice review. I have a GS-1 which is 6x7, otherwise appears to have very similar functionalities to the SQ-A (which I have not used). The GS-1 is significantly smaller and lighter than the Mamiya RB/RZ system as those actually have 7x7 dimension bodies to allow rotating the film back. Not as many lenses as Mamiya but how many do you really need? Two tips that I suspect are relevant to the SQ-A system. I have had variable luck with alkaline batteries, apparently some with correct voltage don’t generate the required current. The batteries last for months if not a year or more since they don’t have too much to do, so I don’t skimp on the silver oxide which are only a few dollars anyway. Other is, with AE prism to set exposures, have to use manual shutter setting or actually lock the exposure with mirror lockup or else meter misreads light as mirror is no longer reflecting through the lens. I presume same for SQ-A. Also, GS-1 has a remote trigger port which works with current electro shutter cable (Canon in my case). Is it same for SQ-A? Gs-1 speedgrip has a hotshoe that will fire my Canon speedlite but not metered so have to set flash power manually with a meter, but then it’s great for portraits. The PC sync port is good for studio work.Love the channel, more on shoots and technique vs equipment reviews would be great!
Rollei also made 6x6 medium format SLR cameras, beginning with the SL66. I personally have used the 6006 and the 6008i models and they are amazing. Well worth trying as competitors to the Hasselblad and Bronica offerings.
I was about to buy those for like ten years ago. Really need looking camera setups with a lot of functions and accessories. I got a lot of sqai instead.
I love my Bronica SQ-Ai, all the PS lenses I've used have been absolutely stellar. The 50mm f3.5 PS is one of the nicest lenses I've used on any system and the resolution is amazing.
You know when you using this type of camera has got typical mechanical feeling and ( smell ) actually fragrance moment to place your eyes on view finder for focusing ... its was tempting really ...
The most informative video I’ve found on the Bronica SQ-A. Very enjoyable. Also, am I hearing correctly? Is there a digital back available for the SQ-A? I’m even more excited about my SQ-A now and I didn’t think that was possible. 😊
Danke für ein tolles Programm und einen schönen Videokanal. Ich möchte nur erwähnen, dass Deutsche wie Sie die Rolleiflex SL und die Rolleiflex 6000-serie nicht vergessen dürfen. Dies sind fantastische Kameras mit SLR 6X6-Profil. Hier in Skandinavien sind wir stolz auf Hasselblad, wissen aber, dass die Deutschen uns Optik und Vertriebsnetzwerke gegeben haben. Grüsse aus Norwegen. (Sorry, habe seit einigen Jahren nicht mehr auf Deutsch geschrieben ...)
Vielen Dank für den schönen Kommentar. Haben uns sehr darüber gefreut. Die Rolleiflex SL und 6000-Serie sind in der Tat fantastische Alternativen und wurden bereits einige Male in anderen Kommentaren genannt. Hatten wir schlichtweg versäumt zu erwähnen. Danke für den Hinweis! Beste Grüße nach Norwegen und alles Gute.
The exact video I was looking for! Finally a video of the camera being used. Not just someone in a room holding it. Was so nice to see footage of it out doing work and I loved the story of the origin of the company. I've always found a camera company's origins to be so interesting if not important. Gives you an insight into the philosophy that went into producing the camera in the first place.
Good video! I've been using the Bronica S-A for 3 or 4 years now... shot close to two hundred rolls with it and never failed me... Very reliable camera and highly recommanded. Great to have viewed your opinion about it. Keep up the good work!
I have a Bronica ETR with a waist-level finder and everything you said about the SQ , pros and cons, is applicable to the ETR. It is a good line of camera with many lens available that gives superb results for its price.
I'm extremely happy with my Bronica ETRSi. It's probably the best value for money system I own. The lenses are truly excellent, particularly the MC (or PS) versions.
S*t! The problem in watching too early: it takes a while for TH-cam to process the video in full HD. I was watching in 360p, but I'll stop, grab a coffee and check it later
Back in my film days that was one that I always wanted but never could quite afford. I did shoot medium format in Yashica TLRs. Nice review, thanks. :-)
Another enjoyable video, thank you. Mamiya do make a SLR MF camera that does shoot in the 6X6 format, the RZ with a 6X6 back. Bronica ETRSi next please.
Another fantastic video. This was a very in depth look at the camera and I really love that you covered the history of it too. As always, I thought your images were amazing as well. Please keep making these videos.
I have one of the original ETR models, and while I shoot mostly digital, I still never get rid of it, because the three lenses I have for it produce some outstanding results. Still shoot it for special shots, the results are that good.
Another great review Max. I have an ETR and love it! Never quite got my eye around square format but the 645 is brilliant. Looking forward to the next review.
Nicely done! Great information, very well presented, no screaming or loud music to get your "attention", just a simple, professional review with excelleny images to back it up - bravo!!!
I used to shoot wedding portraits with an ETRS and only once did I make a mistake with that mirror lock up feature. I'll never forget it - my wife asked me how we were doing on film and that's when I noticed that my film had not been advancing! I had to redo all the brides before-the-ceremony shots, but we managed our time well and had a very cooperative and understanding bride! I have since gone digital, of course, but I am inspired to bring that beast out of retirement now.
Enjoyed viewing this many times; i havvan original SQ with the original Zenzanon-S 80mm, 150mm & 200mm .. but I just acquired a PS 50mm wide & 80mm std lens. So my friend, it seems i have the same kit as u except the only things i've shot (so far) r my feet. This will soon change as this w'end my camera buff buddy's visiting, he's gonna bring his toys, we're gonna shoot, visit this antique store with vintage cameras on display .. can't b outdone here .. better work thru the manual & buckle up. I have the "Handheld Light-meter Blues"🤣😂🤣📸
Thank you for all the information Max it was very interesting . I thought you both captured some nice photo's too. The only thing is it made me a bit sad because a few years back I traded in my old Bronica to buy a DSLR !!! Thank you for sharing ;D Teddy
Max, as always, I really appreciate your insights and tips about cameras and books, etc., so please don't stop... I heard a rumor that the SQAi has some electronic/battery issues and the SQ A is a bit better. It's important to point out that you can get a 6x4.5 back as well as a 35mm back for panoramic shots. I have an SQ A identified, just waiting on the sale of a few things on eBay to pay for it, but your tip on the SQ B now has me starting the look to see what I can find. I have noticed that 120 backs are getting hard to find. Thanks again... Cheers! Michael
Wonderful job guys! You consistently put out the most detailed and engaging reviews on TH-cam. I find the historical context particularly fascinating. Keep up the great work!
Hi, should the SQ-A still turn on if it has no film roll in it? I want to sell mine but it doesn't switch on. It has a working 6v battery but no luck. I'm wondering if it could be because there's no film roll. I'd appreciate any help, thank you
At 6 min 54 sec you mention the horizontal and vertical positions of the film advance lever on the right side of the camera body above the winder. I think you got the position effects backwards. When it is in. the vertical position, the film advances. When in the horizontal position, with the red dot showing, the film does not advance so you can take multiple exposures. Just bought an SQ-Aii and still in the getting to know the camera. One tip; once I load film I take out the dark slide and place it in a safe place in my camera bag to use when I finish a roll of film or need to change film backs.
Hi Max, I just bought a SQ-Am with the 80 mm lens. Have only run one roll of HP5 through it, but great results so far. I really enjoyed you video on this series of cameras. I enjoy your channel. Gene
NO, you have the Multi-exposure lever setting WRONG, the RED, like a light switch means the function is ON!!!! aka a WARNING, if this is un-intentional, the M-up is the front one, and is safe to use (doesn't affect the taking of images badly, only by dousing a little motion blur at the lower speeds (
in regards to the multi exposure you can totally FEEL the difference in the wind pressure and sound of operation. When in multi mode there is a LOT less resistance on the lever. its instant feedback you are in multimode. the nice things about bronica;s is that once you understand their mechanics, you know when they are operating correctly or not. the camera generally won't let you take more than one shot if something isn't right due to their interlocks which is a very good thing. 90% of the time, unmounting the film back, flipping multi on to clear the mechanism, and unmounting the lens fixes things .. unlike HASSLEblads that malfunction in various ways and you have no clue until you get back bad processed film. I easily put a 100K shots thru my SQA's, sold them for almost what I paid for them, and miss them. just wish they had a few faster lenses. nice review...
Hello! I recently bought an SQ-A, and I every time I take a picture, it won’t advance next film unless I manually do it from the film back. I’m confused how the winding mechanics work? So do I take wind the mirror then wind the film back? Or is it the film back that’s faulty or am the one who doesn’t know how to use it.
I got many bronicas, sqa, sqa-i, sqam (motordriven winder), flash attachment, manual thumbwinder bracket, different finder and fucus screens, a bellow type filter holder and lots of filters and filmback such as 120, 220 polaroid and 4,5by6 which we call idealformat here in sweden. What I havnt got is a digital back. I have searched for long times for leaf, phase, mamiya backs and such, but all was overpriced back then. I would love to be pointed in the right direction of one since I love them so much.. Hasselblad is overrated as bmw in car world. A bronica delivers the same quality pictures through their zenzanon optics, which I also have many. 30, 50, 80, 120 and so on, also macro distance rings and teleconverter. Is it worth anything nowadays? Cheers, love this clip and those marvelous pictures seen in this video.
Used to work with both Hasselblad 500c and Bronica sqa in the 80'th. Simplified, I preferred the smooth workflow of the Bronica. Optically the system was not as consistent as the Hasselblad, though some of the Zenzanon lenses was as good as Zeiss. The PS series of lenses was definitely a huge improvement to the system. The film cassettes of the Hasselblad was more solid, and was faster to load.
Hello again.. Very well done video. However I'd like to point out that some of the drawbacks that you mentioned of this system (close focusing distance of 80mm lens, and nowhere to put darkslide) are the same issues that the Hasselblad system also has! Again interesting history and overview of the whole Bronica line, and much appreciated
Hi Max, for me the best photo-channel by far, I love that muted style of your videos and reviews. A very welcome contrast to the mostly overwrought content here on youtube. Although I mostly work digitally (Fuji X and GFX System) I also own a Bronica (ETRSi) and do some film-based shooting from time to time. And there is my question: Could you shortly explain your analog workflow, especially the scanning part with negative colour-fims? How do you reproduce the original colour and style of the film? Maybe that would be a subject for a separate video? I would appreciate it! Best regards Christian
Really informative review I am looking at a Bronica SQ-A at the moment this has cemented my decision because I was looking at Mamiya RB67 or GS-1 but the SQ- A is so similar to my ETRS that I love and adore shooting 👍🏻
The history of the development of the Bronica camera presented here is interesting, but its end-product, not so much. The original Bronica Z and D bodies were, at the time, notorious for their short lives and mechanical failures. The reputation was if you buy one, it will break down, and it will be too expensive to keep repairing. This was offset to some extent by a series of lenses specifically designed and built by Nikon for the camera. Those lenses remain prized today, if you have a camera which will take them. About 20 years ago, my local camera store took in a full set, an early body and a full set of Nikkors with some accessories. They eventually sold the set of $400, and the buyer promptly broke it.
Max, please, what's the name of the song at the very end of this video? Oh, btw, your video inspires me to buy a Bronica SQ-B, can't wait to catch some light with her ... Greetings from lower saxony
Nice story, especially on the background part of Bronica's history. I'd like to add that the mirror bump is considerable as the mirror is slowed only by its' size and replaced air in the body (which works basically) but for images without impediment by camera shake I would use a tripod. Some of the images you showed would have profited from a larger depth of focus through stopping down more, and then - of course - needing a tripod. One alternative, albeit even heavier, is the Rollei SL66 system with the speciality of bellows focusing and a Scheimpflug option to enlarge DOF. These tend to be quite a bit more expensive, though. In my experience, the camera handles much better with the speed grip especially with an - unmetered - prism…
What a beautifully shot video, and so many awesome photos. The colour photos are amazing, especially the little flowers (12:03). I had to laugh when you mentioned the weight of the camera. Until I put my Olympus OM-2 with the 35-105mm lens on the scales: 1.3 kg :) Your reviews are nice to watch while waiting for a new video, and your channel is inspiring - thank you!
A very solid,chick,sophisticated and reasonable nice price!!!! i had Hasselblad 500C/M but i would always have a Zenza Bronica (beautiful name) for street photography!!! A beautiful nostalgic mind which still live with me !!!
Wait, what? You said that no mamiya compares to a bronica? How do you mean? You got the mamiya rb 67 for instance? Lots of similar mamiyas to the bronica,!
Hi. Thank you very much, your video is very complete and clear. I would like to ask you if it is possible to adapt a digital cartridge in the models of these machines?
Sorry but ‘the poor man’s Hasselblad’ sells this camera short. I have used both. As a former ETRS user in the 1980s, I would have a Bronica SQ over a ‘blad every time. There’s nothing at all wrong with the Hasselblad. But the Bronica gives nothing away to it in any department.
nooo!!! bronica are under-appreciated and i would like it to stay that way.
MrTellitToYa the
Bloody Hell! You are absolutely right.
It’s overrated
@tyvek05 hasselblad is overrated piece of shit.. Well not litterally. But its overrated. Im a swede and have come across some hasselblads, and I own a ridiculous amount of bronica cameras and parts. And the optics are directly comparable to some hasselblads, so please enlighten me in what way hasselblad is superior? Is it the brand itself that fools you? I think the hasselblad is like bmw or rolex, just a flashy name for something that others can do aswell. Imo
@@Helikopterpop lol
It is uncanny how every time I start to get interested in another camera type I find that you have only just done a review! This has happened with the OM1, OM4Ti, Olympus 35 RD, Pentax LX and now the SQ-A.
This, as always is a measured assessment and presented in a very calm fashion, exactly matching the style of thoughtful photography that you are portraying.
Don't forget Bronica also made the GS-1, which was 6x7cm. Great video!
Thanks so much for the videos. Have been enjoying the the series and you give great information. I use the rich man’s Bronica SQ-A and simply love the 6 x 6 format. The Bronica has never been seen as a poor quality substitute, just a cheaper price point.
Am I crazy? My SQ-A's multiple exposure lever works exactly the other way around, exactly like one would suspect. The Red dot is indicating that ME is active.
You are not crazy, sir.
My mistake. Please excuse and thanks for the comment.
When I was at high school one of my teachers had a Bronica SQ-A system, and I thought it was an amazing thing! I had been introduced to photography through my great Uncle’s Rolleiflex (which I inherited, and still use), and used my own Pentax ME Super. I decided I would like to have a Bronica...until I saw the cost! 30 years later and at last I now have my own SQ-A system, and I love it. I had the AE prism, grip etc, but thought they made the camera too big and heavy, so I prefer to use it without the grip, and with the waist level finder. I thought your video and images were excellent, and a great reminder why a Bronica is an excellent alternative to a Hasselblad system. Thank you again for your very professional videos.
Thank you so much for taking the time to present this review. It was refreshingly calm, thorough, covered all the right information and was presented in a relaxed, adult manner which I appreciate. All the best to you.
I find these videos so engaging and calming. I love them and they got me back into film. Keep up the great work.
Loved learning about the history behind this beautiful camera. Super cool that being from Philadelphia myself, I now know it was unveiled to the world here!
This was by far the best video ive seen about a bronica sq series camera and ive seen a ton of them, thank you.
Thank you for your kind feedback. We are trying our best with this little channel. :)
I just wanted to let you know that your videos have inspired two purchases of mine so far: a Leica iiif (which I’ve used for almost a year, and absolutely love), and most recently a Super-Takumar 50mm f1.4 (8 element) with accompanying Pentax Spotmatic ... I’m almost afraid to watch each new episode b/c it might lead to another purchase 😅 Definitely a testament to the quality of your videos 🍻 The reverent tone with which you introduce and explain each subject, the follow up examination and testing, sample shots, thoughts, ect., are a real joy.
Collin Bieber Thank you so much for your kind feedback. I really, really appreciate it.
how come there is no alternatives from Mamiya? at least these two: Mamiya RB67 and Mamiya RZ67
Thanks for your comment. What was meant is no 6x6 alternative. The RZ67 can be used with a dedicated 6x6 back is well but is then significantly larger and heavier than the Bronica here. :)
True Story, the dark slide is annoying af ! I adjust everthing and then i realize i forgot the darkslide just when i want to shoot... but its cool the camera doesnt release the shutter when the dark slide is still in... the mamiya rb67 does it regardless of the darkslide...
Can you do a video on metering and light meter usage? I would really be interested in that, and you seem to know a lot about it. If you've already done it, sorry, I couldn't find it.
i was hunting for a while for an affordable SLR medium format camera, i used to own the yashica mat 124g but sold it years ago. it's crazy how prices have skyrocketed the last couple of years! almost 4x waht they used to be in 2010. i managed to find a near mint condition bronica EC. Seems like it's not as nice as some other bronica models, (doesn';t have leaf shutter and has an electronic shutter control) but for the price i think it is good. it's very hard to find ANY information on that specific camera body however.
I do enjoy your videos but miss the story behind the shoot videos these were pretty unique as far as I have seen on this platform
I was a wedding photographer and had two SQ A's. Loved working in the square format, however I sold them to go to a digital format with Canon. They were great cameras.
Thanks for the nice review. I have a GS-1 which is 6x7, otherwise appears to have very similar functionalities to the SQ-A (which I have not used). The GS-1 is significantly smaller and lighter than the Mamiya RB/RZ system as those actually have 7x7 dimension bodies to allow rotating the film back. Not as many lenses as Mamiya but how many do you really need? Two tips that I suspect are relevant to the SQ-A system. I have had variable luck with alkaline batteries, apparently some with correct voltage don’t generate the required current. The batteries last for months if not a year or more since they don’t have too much to do, so I don’t skimp on the silver oxide which are only a few dollars anyway. Other is, with AE prism to set exposures, have to use manual shutter setting or actually lock the exposure with mirror lockup or else meter misreads light as mirror is no longer reflecting through the lens. I presume same for SQ-A. Also, GS-1 has a remote trigger port which works with current electro shutter cable (Canon in my case). Is it same for SQ-A? Gs-1 speedgrip has a hotshoe that will fire my Canon speedlite but not metered so have to set flash power manually with a meter, but then it’s great for portraits. The PC sync port is good for studio work.Love the channel, more on shoots and technique vs equipment reviews would be great!
Outstanding review Maxxy You didn't leave anything out. I learned several things about this system.
I wonder if you ever have problems with static electricity when winding film in cold weather? Just a thought.
Rollei also made 6x6 medium format SLR cameras, beginning with the SL66. I personally have used the 6006 and the 6008i models and they are amazing. Well worth trying as competitors to the Hasselblad and Bronica offerings.
I have the bronica gs-1. Would love to hear your thoughts on it because it's the least known 6x7 camera imo
I was about to buy those for like ten years ago. Really need looking camera setups with a lot of functions and accessories. I got a lot of sqai instead.
I love my Bronica SQ-Ai, all the PS lenses I've used have been absolutely stellar. The 50mm f3.5 PS is one of the nicest lenses I've used on any system and the resolution is amazing.
You know when you using this type of camera has got typical mechanical feeling and ( smell ) actually fragrance moment to place your eyes on view finder for focusing ... its was tempting really ...
The most informative video I’ve found on the Bronica SQ-A. Very enjoyable. Also, am I hearing correctly? Is there a digital back available for the SQ-A? I’m even more excited about my SQ-A now and I didn’t think that was possible. 😊
Thank you for your kind comment. Means a lot.
Danke für ein tolles Programm und einen schönen Videokanal. Ich möchte nur erwähnen, dass Deutsche wie Sie die Rolleiflex SL und die Rolleiflex 6000-serie nicht vergessen dürfen. Dies sind fantastische Kameras mit SLR 6X6-Profil. Hier in Skandinavien sind wir stolz auf Hasselblad, wissen aber, dass die Deutschen uns Optik und Vertriebsnetzwerke gegeben haben. Grüsse aus Norwegen. (Sorry, habe seit einigen Jahren nicht mehr auf Deutsch geschrieben ...)
Vielen Dank für den schönen Kommentar. Haben uns sehr darüber gefreut. Die Rolleiflex SL und 6000-Serie sind in der Tat fantastische Alternativen und wurden bereits einige Male in anderen Kommentaren genannt. Hatten wir schlichtweg versäumt zu erwähnen. Danke für den Hinweis!
Beste Grüße nach Norwegen und alles Gute.
The exact video I was looking for! Finally a video of the camera being used. Not just someone in a room holding it. Was so nice to see footage of it out doing work and I loved the story of the origin of the company. I've always found a camera company's origins to be so interesting if not important. Gives you an insight into the philosophy that went into producing the camera in the first place.
Thanks so much for the kind comment. Glad to hear you enjoyed it. :)
I'm looking at getting a used Bronica and really appreciate all the info in this video! Thank you!!
Good video! I've been using the Bronica S-A for 3 or 4 years now... shot close to two hundred rolls with it and never failed me... Very reliable camera and highly recommanded. Great to have viewed your opinion about it. Keep up the good work!
That's a lot of $$
@@brien1254 It's $$$ well spent! :)
My rollei 6008 weight is 2,4 kg... so the Bronica is lighter!
Definitely.
Ich liebe deine Videos, aber könnt ihr ab und zu auch mal wieder Farbfilm benutzen?😅
Nidave Haha, danke. Haben wir doch in diesem Video (kommt weiter hinten). Sogar einen ganz besonderen alten Agfa-Diafilm. :)
Ich bin mädchen mann Brot wasser
I have a Bronica ETR with a waist-level finder and everything you said about the SQ , pros and cons, is applicable to the ETR. It is a good line of camera with many lens available that gives superb results for its price.
I'm extremely happy with my Bronica ETRSi. It's probably the best value for money system I own. The lenses are truly excellent, particularly the MC (or PS) versions.
@Elba Que I do like my 75mm F2.8 a lot, and that's the MC version :-)
S*t! The problem in watching too early: it takes a while for TH-cam to process the video in full HD. I was watching in 360p, but I'll stop, grab a coffee and check it later
And it's here! 1080p available!
Back in my film days that was one that I always wanted but never could quite afford. I did shoot medium format in Yashica TLRs. Nice review, thanks. :-)
I love my Bronica system. You covered it well, and I even learned a couple of things. Thanks.
So is a Minolta X700 a poor man Canon or Nikkon? How many AE1 syn ay over 60 sec vs Nikkon lol
Another enjoyable video, thank you. Mamiya do make a SLR MF camera that does shoot in the 6X6 format, the RZ with a 6X6 back. Bronica ETRSi next please.
Another fantastic video. This was a very in depth look at the camera and I really love that you covered the history of it too. As always, I thought your images were amazing as well. Please keep making these videos.
I have one of the original ETR models, and while I shoot mostly digital, I still never get rid of it, because the three lenses I have for it produce some outstanding results. Still shoot it for special shots, the results are that good.
bollocks i was really hoping to get one of these before you did a review of it and the price sky rockets
I checked today, and the prices has remained the same since i bought mine for like 10-15years ago. And i bought a lot!
Another great review Max. I have an ETR and love it! Never quite got my eye around square format but the 645 is brilliant. Looking forward to the next review.
thanks for the great video!!! will think of it every time I pick up my sq a-i...debating picking up the gs-1 (6x7)...thoughts?
deltadave44 確かに、gsー1の方が使いやすいかも知れませんが、SQ-aの方が吉野善三郎の求める意思を忠実に再現していて、これこそ、フイルムの時代の、デジタル一眼レフとミラーレスとおんなじ差を感じるのです。66-67それぞれで楽しんで下さい。面白いですよ。
Nicely done! Great information, very well presented, no screaming or loud music to get your "attention", just a simple, professional review with excelleny images to back it up - bravo!!!
I used to shoot wedding portraits with an ETRS and only once did I make a mistake with that mirror lock up feature. I'll never forget it - my wife asked me how we were doing on film and that's when I noticed that my film had not been advancing! I had to redo all the brides before-the-ceremony shots, but we managed our time well and had a very cooperative and understanding bride! I have since gone digital, of course, but I am inspired to bring that beast out of retirement now.
Amateur mistake
Great, insightful video, lots of info, thank you, now to find a camera 👍
Do have a look at the Rolleiflex 6008 system! It’s a fantastic 6x6 SLR!
sendie1 Yes, I know. I’m sorry for not mentioning it. I simply forgot it.
Also the SL66 which is simply a fantastic camera.
Enjoyed viewing this many times; i havvan original SQ with the original Zenzanon-S 80mm, 150mm & 200mm .. but I just acquired a PS 50mm wide & 80mm std lens. So my friend, it seems i have the same kit as u except the only things i've shot (so far) r my feet. This will soon change as this w'end my camera buff buddy's visiting, he's gonna bring his toys, we're gonna shoot, visit this antique store with vintage cameras on display .. can't b outdone here .. better work thru the manual & buckle up. I have the "Handheld Light-meter Blues"🤣😂🤣📸
Thank you for all the information Max it was very interesting . I thought you both captured some nice photo's too. The only thing is it made me a bit sad because a few years back I traded in my old Bronica to buy a DSLR !!! Thank you for sharing
;D Teddy
Max, as always, I really appreciate your insights and tips about cameras and books, etc., so please don't stop... I heard a rumor that the SQAi has some electronic/battery issues and the SQ A is a bit better. It's important to point out that you can get a 6x4.5 back as well as a 35mm back for panoramic shots. I have an SQ A identified, just waiting on the sale of a few things on eBay to pay for it, but your tip on the SQ B now has me starting the look to see what I can find. I have noticed that 120 backs are getting hard to find.
Thanks again... Cheers!
Michael
I have a Bronica SQ-Am, Would love to know more information on this camera as there is very little out there,
Wonderful job guys! You consistently put out the most detailed and engaging reviews on TH-cam. I find the historical context particularly fascinating. Keep up the great work!
Thank you so much for your kind words. I really appreciate the feedback.
Great video! Question: So the Bronica SQ does not have light metering capabilities even with a prism finder?
In the beginning, that music... Its awesome... Btw the video is very good with full of details...
Thanks a lot for your kind feedback. Really appreciate it.
Hi, should the SQ-A still turn on if it has no film roll in it? I want to sell mine but it doesn't switch on. It has a working 6v battery but no luck. I'm wondering if it could be because there's no film roll. I'd appreciate any help, thank you
Very informative... Thank you !!
At 6 min 54 sec you mention the horizontal and vertical positions of the film advance lever on the right side of the camera body above the winder. I think you got the position effects backwards. When it is in. the vertical position, the film advances. When in the horizontal position, with the red dot showing,
the film does not advance so you can take multiple exposures. Just bought an SQ-Aii and still in the getting to know the camera. One tip; once I load film I take out the dark slide and place it in a safe place in my camera bag to use when I finish a roll of film or need to change film backs.
Rolleiflex SL66 was another option
True.
'
what country made this camera...
is this zenza camera or zenza digitalcamera and video with SD memory chip minicard
Just Simply Put ---- AN EXCELLENT VIDEO!
Excellent review
Hi Max, I just bought a SQ-Am with the 80 mm lens. Have only run one roll of HP5 through it, but great results so far. I really enjoyed you video on this series of cameras. I enjoy your channel.
Gene
Gene Duprey Thanks so much for your kind comment, Gene. I really appreciate it. Hope you’re enjoying your Bronica SQ-Am. :)
Can you shoot 6x5 on this camera with a different back?
asalways - wait for your reviews - always pleased - and the photos are fantastic.
Thank You for another great episode! Cant wait what you will review next!
Good camera, but some alternative with Kowa Six or some Rollei SLR 66 ( many model)
Emmanuel Bergère Thanks for your comment. You are right. I forgot to mention these.
@@AnalogInsights Love your videos anyways !
NO, you have the Multi-exposure lever setting WRONG, the RED, like a light switch means the function is ON!!!! aka a WARNING, if this is un-intentional, the M-up is the front one, and is safe to use (doesn't affect the taking of images badly, only by dousing a little motion blur at the lower speeds (
Calm down. He apologised for this and agreed he made a mistake.
Brilliant and beautiful review! Thank you!
What a nice and thorough review, thank you! And as always the images are beautiful.
in regards to the multi exposure you can totally FEEL the difference in the wind pressure and sound of operation. When in multi mode there is a LOT less resistance on the lever. its instant feedback you are in multimode. the nice things about bronica;s is that once you understand their mechanics, you know when they are operating correctly or not. the camera generally won't let you take more than one shot if something isn't right due to their interlocks which is a very good thing. 90% of the time, unmounting the film back, flipping multi on to clear the mechanism, and unmounting the lens fixes things .. unlike HASSLEblads that malfunction in various ways and you have no clue until you get back bad processed film. I easily put a 100K shots thru my SQA's, sold them for almost what I paid for them, and miss them. just wish they had a few faster lenses. nice review...
Hello! I recently bought an SQ-A, and I every time I take a picture, it won’t advance next film unless I manually do it from the film back. I’m confused how the winding mechanics work? So do I take wind the mirror then wind the film back? Or is it the film back that’s faulty or am the one who doesn’t know how to use it.
is the physical body size of the SQa much larger than the
Great video! Thanks! 👍
Always a pleasure to watch your videos. If I ever make it to Germany it would be awesome to shoot together!
Sure, just let me know.
Always a good day when Analog Insights publish new episodes!
nice images man
Thanks.
I got many bronicas, sqa, sqa-i, sqam (motordriven winder), flash attachment, manual thumbwinder bracket, different finder and fucus screens, a bellow type filter holder and lots of filters and filmback such as 120, 220 polaroid and 4,5by6 which we call idealformat here in sweden. What I havnt got is a digital back. I have searched for long times for leaf, phase, mamiya backs and such, but all was overpriced back then. I would love to be pointed in the right direction of one since I love them so much.. Hasselblad is overrated as bmw in car world. A bronica delivers the same quality pictures through their zenzanon optics, which I also have many. 30, 50, 80, 120 and so on, also macro distance rings and teleconverter. Is it worth anything nowadays? Cheers, love this clip and those marvelous pictures seen in this video.
Thanks for the introduction to zenza!
Sehr interessant. Ein Vergleich zur S2a wäre toll. Weshalb sitzt du eigtl. immer so krass am Rand?
In Japan 120 film is also called Brownie like the old camera so Bronica is (probably) the combination of Brownie and Camera/Ca
Very interesting. Certainly a possibility. Thanks for sharing.
A Very well done Review ! Thanks for your time !
a very enjoyable watch. a request for a future video: Barnack (screw mount) Leicas
WayneKnight_Rider Thanks for your comment. We already did a video about the Leica IIIf. Maybe worth a look if you’re into these cameras. :)
Used to work with both Hasselblad 500c and Bronica sqa in the 80'th. Simplified, I preferred the smooth workflow of the Bronica. Optically the system was not as consistent as the Hasselblad, though some of the Zenzanon lenses was as good as Zeiss. The PS series of lenses was definitely a huge improvement to the system. The film cassettes of the Hasselblad was more solid, and was faster to load.
Hello again.. Very well done video. However I'd like to point out that some of the drawbacks that you mentioned of this system (close focusing distance of 80mm lens, and nowhere to put darkslide) are the same issues that the Hasselblad system also has! Again interesting history and overview of the whole Bronica line, and much appreciated
Hi Max,
for me the best photo-channel by far, I love that muted style of your videos and reviews. A very welcome contrast to the mostly overwrought content here on youtube.
Although I mostly work digitally (Fuji X and GFX System) I also own a Bronica (ETRSi) and do some film-based shooting from time to time. And there is my question:
Could you shortly explain your analog workflow, especially the scanning part with negative colour-fims? How do you reproduce the original colour and style of the film? Maybe that would be a subject for a separate video? I would appreciate it!
Best regards
Christian
Really informative review I am looking at a Bronica SQ-A at the moment this has cemented my decision because I was looking at Mamiya RB67 or GS-1 but the SQ- A is so similar to my ETRS that I love and adore shooting 👍🏻
Kowa also made a 6x6 SLR that is worthy of a review.
The history of the development of the Bronica camera presented here is interesting, but its end-product, not so much. The original Bronica Z and D bodies were, at the time, notorious for their short lives and mechanical failures. The reputation was if you buy one, it will break down, and it will be too expensive to keep repairing. This was offset to some extent by a series of lenses specifically designed and built by Nikon for the camera. Those lenses remain prized today, if you have a camera which will take them. About 20 years ago, my local camera store took in a full set, an early body and a full set of Nikkors with some accessories. They eventually sold the set of $400, and the buyer promptly broke it.
You forget the Mamiya RB and rz67 as alternatives. Not 6 x 6, but otherwise very similar.
Also the GS-1 Bronica that was 6x7cm :D
The RB67 is a lot more complicated to use. This comes from someone who has owned both. For the record, I prefer the Bronica.
I just could not decide what to buy Bronica SQ-A or Mamiya RB67. I know that mamiya is bulky but still looks more universal and cheaper camera.
Max, please, what's the name of the song at the very end of this video? Oh, btw, your video inspires me to buy a Bronica SQ-B, can't wait to catch some light with her ... Greetings from lower saxony
Nice story, especially on the background part of Bronica's history. I'd like to add that the mirror bump is considerable as the mirror is slowed only by its' size and replaced air in the body (which works basically) but for images without impediment by camera shake I would use a tripod. Some of the images you showed would have profited from a larger depth of focus through stopping down more, and then - of course - needing a tripod.
One alternative, albeit even heavier, is the Rollei SL66 system with the speciality of bellows focusing and a Scheimpflug option to enlarge DOF. These tend to be quite a bit more expensive, though.
In my experience, the camera handles much better with the speed grip especially with an - unmetered - prism…
What a beautifully shot video, and so many awesome photos. The colour photos are amazing, especially the little flowers (12:03). I had to laugh when you mentioned the weight of the camera. Until I put my Olympus OM-2 with the 35-105mm lens on the scales: 1.3 kg :) Your reviews are nice to watch while waiting for a new video, and your channel is inspiring - thank you!
Love the review, love the music you chose!
A very solid,chick,sophisticated and reasonable nice price!!!! i had Hasselblad 500C/M but i would always have a Zenza Bronica (beautiful name) for street photography!!! A beautiful nostalgic mind which still live with me !!!
Thanks for this review. I have both this SQA and a Hasselblad. The Bronica sits more comfortably in my hand and is just easier to use
Wait, what? You said that no mamiya compares to a bronica? How do you mean? You got the mamiya rb 67 for instance? Lots of similar mamiyas to the bronica,!
Impressive photographs and supporting dialogue and history of the Zenza Bronica. Thank you! You have. Made me yearn for now.
Hi.
Thank you very much, your video is very complete and clear.
I would like to ask you if it is possible to adapt a digital cartridge in the models of these machines?