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SILVER GRAINS
135 (24×36 mm)
For the 135 format, I mainly use this gem which is the Maxxum 7 (2001). A very complete body in terms of its functionalities, fully configurable, it also has advantages that its competitors have envied, and in particular its back screen, which allows you to clearly see all the settings in progress, pictures data, but also to have visibility of the EV measurement of each cell and even the depth of field with certain lenses !
High performance and remarkably easy to use, I combine it with many lenses from the Minolta AF range, mainly:
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- 17-35 mm f2.8-4 D
- 24-105 mm f3.5-4.5 D
- 100-300 mm f4.5-5.6
- 100 mm macro f2.8 D
- 500 mm f8 mirror
- Sometimes 20 mm f2.8, 50 mm f1.7, 70-210 mm “beercan” f4
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In addition, if I need a second body to avoid constant lens changes or for safety, I take the Maxxum 800si (1997), which has many similarities with the Maxxum 7, or the Maxxum 9 ( 1998), splendid machine, but very heavy (magnesium block) or the Maxxum 70 (2004), much lighter, the brand’s latest SLR.
I don’t use a flash often, but if necessary, the 5400 HS comes with me. In particular, it allows me to adjust the power of the flash according to need, and I can control it remotely with the camera’s integrated flash.
Obviously, protective UV filters, orange, red, and polarizing accompany me everywhere.
For films, I mainly work with Ilford™ HP5+ and Delta, but I sometimes use other references, like Kodak, Foma or others, mainly in 100 or 400 iso.
And in order to avoid excessive battery consumption, everyone is powered by Eneloop™ AA batteries. All the bodies are equipped with the vertical grip, compatible with this format.
For more info on those cameras (Website Collection appareils) :
120 (6×6 cm)
For 120 format, I only use (for the moment) 2 cameras.
An Autocord MXV (1955), without batteries and with fixed lens ! As it does not have an integrated cell, I use an IVF flashmeter with it.
I also “cheat” on Minolta with a Holga 120PC, for pinhole photography. It works with 120 in 12 exposures (or 16 if you use a special cover allowing you to take 4 more frames per film). I can also use it with 135 format thanks to 2 support spools.
(No publications in this format at the moment)
For more info on the Autocord : Website Collection appareils : Here
Silver grains Tools for film photography