Last week I moved to 6x7 from Pentax 645 "thinking" my images would be sharper at 11x14. While yes they are sharp, I don't see any large difference over my 645 images.

I shoot only B&W. I process and print all my own images. I use a Pentax digital spot meter modified by Zone VI and have found FB+F and calibrated my 6x7 system. I use the Rodenstock Rogagon enlarging lens and my enlarger is aligned and accurate. I'm not new to photography. Seems to me, that I gave up many NICE things in my 645. If the images are almost equal then why 6x7?.

-- Joe Lacy (jmlacy1@home.com), February 04, 2001

Answers

Joe, the P67 has much more learning curve than most MF cameras. It seems that the focal plane shutter is at about the limit in size for such a device and that has caused problems. Yes, it is difficult to extract sharp images at first with this camera but once you learn the idiosyncrasies, it is worth the effort. There is a noticable difference in sharpness between the 645 and 67, especially when you get into the 24 x 30 inch range. Maybe if you do not feel there is enough difference to warrant the change to 67, then you could go back to 645. Did you sell the 645? It is always nice to have both systems because they each have their strong points. You could sell the 645 lenses and buy the 67 adapter so the 67 lenses could be used on the 645. Welcome to the forum. SR

-- Steve Rasmussen (srasmuss@flash.net), February 04, 2001.

Joe: I made the same leap some time ago. It takes a little to get accustomed to the P67, especially due to vibration problems. MLU, a sturdy tripod and the fastest possible shutter speed are the most important factors (hope your body permits MLU). I did see differences, even though not as noticeable as the leap from 35mm to 645. Regards

-- Roberto Manderioli (ik4jqw@amsat.org), February 15, 2001.