Friday last saw M and myself going back to basics, or at least where we started from.
That’s right FILM!
M being the proud owner of a Bronica SQAm, a 6x6cm square format camera, myself using a slightly more basic, Yashica Mat, also a 6x6cm format, but with a fixed lens as opposed to the interchangeable facility on the Bronica.
Our main aim (apart from making sure the cameras functioned!) was to see if there were any major differences in sharpness between the camera.
Since both cameras are manual focus M had the privilage of setting both cameras up, this ensured that variations between our eyesight and focusing method was eliminated and in both cases the camera was tripod mounted.
We used 100 ASA Fomapan film, processed in Rodinal for the purpose of the test.
Exposure was1/60sec at f8
Once again we ventured to Seaford, our favourite test area and the home of Cupacabana one of our favourite eating places.
The cameras:
Bronica SQAm.
Made from 1983, SLR (single lens reflex), interchangable film back and lenses, powered film advance, Seiko leaf shutter, 80mm f2.8 lense (6 elements in 4 groups)
Shutter speeds from 8 seconds to 1/500th second, shutter electronically controlled.
Yashica Mat.
Made from 1959, TLR (twin lens reflex) fixed film back and lense, manual film advance, Copal leaf shutter, 80mm f3.5 lense (4 elements in 3 groups)
Shutter speeds from 1 second to 1/500th second.
Test results
Bronica
Yashica Mat
Sample images
Bronica
Yashica Mat
Conclusion
Despite the differences of design, lense type and age variation between the cameras the results were very similar, both were consistant in terms of eveness of exposure across the image and overall sharpness.
We were very impressed with the quality produced by both cameras.
In terms of flexibility the Bronica wins out, due to the ability to change filmback mid roll and interchangeable lenses and viewfinder.
For lightness and compactness however, the Yashica Mat wins hands down.
Both cameras can be purchased secondhand for reasonable money, you pay your money you take your pick.