Mamiya 645AFDII
Mamiya has recently
launched the new 645AFD II. Responding to the demands of medium format film
and digital shooters, Mamiya has incorporated the latest auto focusing
technology. In addition to a faster, more sensitive focus response, the
645AFD II offers a selective spot or wide focus area within its "I + I" CCD
focus pattern sensor array. As you would expect, single, continuous and
manual focus overrides are available as shooting situations change. Mamiya
designed the new 645AFD II with the necessary features and functions to
seamlessly support both film and digital capture all in one camera system.
Mamiya pioneered the world's first true cross-platform film or digital
camera, and now includes its latest MSC (Mamiya Serial Communication) data
transfer technology in the new 645AFD II. All critical exposure and shooting
information is internally exchanged between the camera and compatible
digital camera backs.
Whether you're shooting film or digital, it's the most affordable and
technologically advanced medium format camera available. The 645AFD II is
loaded with 36 custom functions. Individual camera preferences such as 1/3,
1/2 or full aperture/shutter speed increments, flash synch speed, dial
functions, exposure compensation increments, bracketing sequence, dial
direction setting and much more are easily set and recalled in a snap. In
addition, separate user configurations can be set and recalled on-the-fly
when several photographers are using the same camera.
Dedicated “Quick Action” buttons have also been designed into the 645AFD II
for fast activation of such functions as multiple exposures,
auto-bracketing, key lock, auto exposure lock and auto focus lock.
The Mamiya 645AFD II combines sophisticated advanced features, integrated
microprocessor controlled electronics, enhanced performance and the quality
of medium format film or digital capture with the power of proven
World-Class Mamiya autofocus optics.
A choice of focus
modes to suit the subject
Single AF Mode (S)
This mode puts priority on precise focusing at the moment the shutter is
released, ideal for still subjects. Focus is fixed when the viewfinder LCD
focus mark lights. AF lock can be activated in this mode by pressing and
holding the shutter release button in the halfway position. This is ideal
for off-center composition.
Continuous AF
Mode (C)
This mode puts priority on shutter release, continuing to adjust focus even
while the shutter release button is being pressed. It is best for moving
subjects; focus is not fixed even when the focus mark lights.
Manual Focus
Mode (M)
Selecting this mode cancels auto focus. The focus mark appears inside the
viewfinder LCD panel when the image is in focus, and a focus aid feature
indicates the rotation direction of the focus ring with marks.
The Auto-focus
Clutch
The 645AFD II Telephoto and Zoom lenses, plus the ultra-wide angle 35mm lens
have a quick-change auto focus clutch mechanism that allows changing from
auto focus to manual focus and back again a breeze. This is ideal for
sports, portrait, and wedding photographers on the move that need to switch
rapidly from auto focus to manual focus.
Simply move the focusing ring of the lens forward (away from the camera) and the lens is now in the manual focus mode. It's as simple as that; there is no need to remove your eye from the viewfinder or move the focus mode selector lever on the front of the camera to "M".
To change back to the auto focus mode, simply move the focusing ring back to its original position and start shooting.
Exposure modes to complement a full range of photographic needs
(P) Program
AE Mode
This mode automatically determines optimal exposure settings, using
pre-programmed aperture and shutter values to ensure exposure accuracy under
ambient lighting. Digital dial-controlled program shift enables adjustment
of shutter speeds and aperture in 1 EV steps from (P) mode.
(PH) favors faster shutter
speeds and larger apertures. This is ideal for moving subjects or
shallow depth-of-field used in many portraits.
(PL) favors slower shutter speeds and smaller apertures. This
is ideal for landscape where control of depth-of-field is needed.
These settings provide a versatile response to most shooting
conditions. This mode is ideal for general photography without the
need to make adjustments.
(Av) Aperture Priority AE Mode
This mode emphasizes the depth-of-field effect of aperture setting on the
image. Simply adjust the aperture value with the digital dial to the
appropriate setting, and the camera automatically adjusts shutter speed to
match. Aperture values can be set in 1/2 steps.
(Tv) Shutter Speed Priority AE Mode
This mode emphasizes the effect of the shutter speed on the image. Set the
desired shutter speed via the digital dial and the camera automatically
adjusts aperture value to match. Shutter values can be set in 1/2 steps.
(M) Manual Mode
This mode enables the photographer to have total control over both aperture
and shutter speed, and is best used to adjust settings based on readings
from a separate exposure meter. The rear dial adjusts aperture value while
shutter speed is set using the front dial. Both values can be set in 1/2
steps. The photographer can put half pressure on the shutter release to view
the difference between set values and values metered by the camera and
displayed in the viewfinder LCD. The difference indications disappear from
the LCD panel when set values match metered values.
(X) X Mode
This mode fixes shutter speed at the sync speed of 1/125 sec while allowing
adjustment of the aperture setting. In this position, the exposure dial
locks and cannot be rotated. Perfect for easy flash operation.
(T) Time Mode
This is a mechanically controlled mode for long exposures. It consumes no
battery power.
Three metering modes
provide detailed information about lighting conditions
(A) 5-Segment Evaluative Average Metering (Center-Weighted)
This mode meters the average brightness of the entire image, with emphasis
on the center of the screen. The four outer segments plus spot area are
measured, the brightest of the outer four eliminated and the remaining three
plus spot are averaged together for remarkable results is challenging
lighting situations.
(S) Spot Metering
This mode meters reflected light on the image at a specific point, indicated
by the circle at the center of the viewing screen. It is optimal for use
with high contrast subjects and for measuring brightness at a specific area
of the subject. The angle of acceptance changes according to the focal
length of the lens attached.
(AUTO A-S) Variable Ratio Metering
This mode automatically switches between 5-Segment Evaluative Average and
Spot modes depending on the relative contrast within the overall image; it
provides exposure settings suited to a wide range of subjects and lighting
conditions.
Digital control dials simplify aperture
and shutter settings without having to move from the viewfinder
Shutter speed and aperture settings are adjusted using a pair of digital
dials. Adjustments are made using the front dial located near the shutter
release button, operated with the right forefinger, and the rear dial on the
upper part of the back, operated with the thumb. This ergonomic layout
enables fast, easy adjustments without distraction while constantly
observing the subject through the viewfinder. Even when using the camera
without a tripod, settings can be changed without removing the right hand
from the grip. The viewfinder and body LCD panels provide full information
at a glance in AE modes and manual mode.
LCD panels show exposure conditions and
camera settings at a glance
A digital data communication system centralizes control and makes it
possible to see full information in the viewfinder, body, and film magazine
LCDs. The viewfinder display shows information about current exposure
conditions. The body and film magazine displays show current settings and
selections, all in an easy-to-understand intuitive format.
Film magazines allow use of both 120 and
220 roll film without separate inserts.
The 645AFD II is a camera for the digital imaging age. Interchangeable film
magazines enhance creative application of the 6 x 4.5cm format. The 645AFD
II carries on a proud Mamiya tradition of interchangeable film magazines. In
addition to the 120/220 roll film magazine and Polaroid film back, the
645AFD II also supports digital imaging with Mamiya's unique MSC protocol.
Uses standard and inexpensive AA
batteries
Alkaline batteries are easily available worldwide and one set of fresh AA
alkaline batteries will last for about 140 rolls of 120 film. One set of
lithium batteries will last for about 340 rolls of 120 film.
Auto-detect of First Frame of Film
The 645AFD II is the only auto-focus medium format camera to have
auto-detect of the first frame. There is no need to line up the START
arrows; the Film Magazine automatically seeks the first frame of film. The
result is quicker and easier loading of film and less chance of film fog.
Half- and Third-Stop Shutter Speeds
The only medium format camera that has precise selection of shutter speed
values to 1/2- or 1/3-stop providing the means to record the proper
exposure.
Fully Digital Controls enable super-fast
1/4000-sec shutter speed, auto bracketing, exposure data imprinting, and
customizable mode, while the super-fast 1/4000-sec shutter speed expands
creative potential.
The vertical-travel metal focal plane shutter provides a maximum shutter
speed of 1/4000 second. This permits the photographer to employ techniques,
from soft-focus portraits using wide apertures to razor-sharp images of even
the fastest-moving subjects. The high-speed shutter also allows flash
synchronization at a fast 1/125 sec., which enables effective application of
daylight synchronization and other flash techniques. When the film magazine
is removed, a protective mechanism automatically opens the shutter, and
closes it again when the magazine is replaced, to prevent accidental
damages.
Electronic Dial Lock
Prevents accidental changes of aperture and shutter speeds set in the X,
Manual, Aperture Priority and Shutter Speed Priority exposure modes. Lets
you concentrate on the photo session, not the camera.
Auto bracketing for one-touch exposure
adjustment
Auto bracketing is effective under complex lighting conditions when
determining proper exposure settings is difficult, or for shooting with
narrow-latitude slide films. The camera will take two or three pictures:
normal + over, normal + under or normal + under + over expore. You may also
change the order of bracketing via the Custom Function menu, to under +
normal + over, over + normal + under. The exposure steps can be preset to
0.3, 0.5, 0.7, or 1 EV (f/stop) steps, and auto-bracketing can also be used
in combination with the +/-3 or +/-5EV exposure compensation function. In
any mode except Manual (M) and Time (T); Program AE shift settings are used
without modification.
Exposure data imprinting records vital
information
Apply the data imprinting to generate a record of exposure data factors
outside the image area. DATA mode imprints exposure mode, aperture value,
shutter speed, exposure compensation level, metering mode, TTL flash
compensation indicator, bracketing position and index (frame) number. DAY
mode records year, month, day, and time, along with an index number. The
4-digit index numbers run 0000 to 9999 and each digit can be set
individually, allowing for custom indexing. Data is stored in camera memory,
and is not cleared when a film magazine is replaced. This allows easier
record keeping and management when shooting large numbers of images.
Custom Function settings
There are three Custom Users (A, B & C) and 36 custom settings accessible by
selecting CF on the exposure mode dial. For a complete listing of all custom
settings, use the "Custom Settings" link at right. Having three
separately-adjustable users allows for multiple setups for different people
or preferences, making adjustments swift and effortless. Make the 645AFD II
yours through finite preference controls.
Digital multiple exposure activation
Press Multi Exposure Mode and set the desired number of exposures in a range
of 2 to 6 with the digital control dial. Digital cancellation of film
winding assures precise registration of multiple images on a single frame.
By pressing the Multiple Exposure button before the exposure set is complete
allows for more exposures to be dialed in.
Self-timer
To activate the Self Timer, use the selection ring around the shutter
release. You can change the self-timer setting by pressing SET from 2 to 60
seconds. Settings can be made in 1-second steps from 2 to 10 seconds and in
10-second steps for settings longer than 10 seconds. Time-lapse photography
is possible by using a locked-down cable release in the "C" (continuous
advance) motor drive mode. Intervals are set between 2 and 60 sec. using the
self-timer.
Digital imaging
The advance of computers and digital image-processing systems has made
digital imaging capabilities a must for the modern photographer. Simply
replace the film magazine with a compatible digital back to expand
creativity to a totally new set of applications and needs.
The Mamiya 645AFD II accepts interchangeable 120/220 film magazines, Polaroid proofing backs and digital backs. Linking the body to digital backs is the innovative Mamiya Serial Communication (MSC) protocol, which provides true, digital-ready, integrated technology that bridges the gap between conventional and digital photography and eliminates camera-to-back cable connections which can be hazardous and inconvenient. MSC also increases automatic feature capabilities such as ISO recognition, autoexposure and TTL flash operation, plus digital back ready, capture and store status which are displayed on the camera's main LCD panel and in the viewfinder. No matter whether it is film or digital, all of the images are captured by world-class Mamiya AF lenses, now totaling ten and growing.
For a complete list of digital back manufacturers please visit our Digital Backs section under PRODUCTS in the main menu at left.
Sophisticated TTL/OTF Flash Control
The Mamiya 645AFD II incorporates automated TTL/OTF
(through-the-lens/off-the-film) flash control, with an X-sync hot shoe and
dedicated circuitry. The flash system is compatible with the Metz SCA3002,
SCA 3000 and SCA 300 Systems, which provide exceptional flash control. Using
a Metz flash with SCA3952 adapter enables transfer of aperture, film speed,
exposure compensation, flash compensation and other data for automated
synchronization as well as power zoom control link and automatic operation
of the infrared AF sub-beam. Also, in the P, PH and PL modes the shutter
speed is automatically set controlled to 1/125th sec.to 1/60 sec. All this
technology provides versatile flash photography capability.
Flash Compensation
With properly connected Metz TTL flash units, a quick press of the camera's
SET button and roll of either adjustment dial activates flash compensation,
up to +/- 3.0 EV in 1/3 step increments.
Flash status viewfinder display
When the flash unit is connected and reaches full power, the viewfinder LCD
displays the flash charge mark. This mark flashes after each shot to
indicate adjustment of flash intensity to the optimal level.
Retractable Shutter to Prevent Damage
The 645AFD II is the only camera to have a retractable shutter to prevent
potentially expensive damage to the shutter. The shutter automatically
retracts into its housing when the film magazine is removed eliminating the
possibility of damage.
Simplified mechanism enables a compact,
lightweight configuration
The viewfinder and grip are incorporated into the body, eliminating the need
for additional electrical contacts and mechanical links. The result is a
simpler design with greater precision and strength, and a more compact
configuration.
Natural balance and feel
The 645AFD II is designed to have a neutral balance and natural feel when
held in one hand, even when shifted between vertical and horizontal views or
during operation of camera controls. Even supported only by the neck strap,
the camera retains a light, well-balanced feeling. The palm of the hand fits
naturally into place for a sure and stable grip. The groove on the left of
the top cover and the leather-soft rubberized covering contribute to
enjoyable handling.
Designed for error free, trouble-free
operation
Fully Digital Controls and self-diagnostic circuitry eliminate problems
before they happen. In the event of incorrect settings or battery trouble,
the shutter release locks to protect accidental exposure and the camera body
LCD indicates where the problem is.
The first medium-format camera with a
magnesium alloy viewfinder cover
The viewfinder requires no support during camera operation. The 645AFD II is
the only medium-format camera to protect the prism and digital circuitry of
the viewfinder with a magnesium alloy cover. In addition to providing secure
protection, this magnesium alloy also contributes to the overall compact and
lightweight design of the camera. The result is an innovative configuration
with a revolutionary new look for the medium-format SLR.
Die-cast aluminum alloy body and film
magazine
The body shell is die-cast from a lightweight, high-strength aluminum alloy.
Exceptional precision in this metalworking assures reliable, durable
performance even under the harshest working conditions.
Infrared Auto-focus Assist Beam
Mamiya was the first medium format manufacturer to incorporate a built-in
auto-focus assist beam to aid in autofocus. It goes into effect
automatically under poor light and low subject contrast conditions. The beam
is effective up to 29.5' with an 80mm f/2.8 AF lens attached. For sensitive
situations such as political events, the AF sub-beam is switchable on/off.
Mamiya 645AFD II auto focus is based on
a TTL phase-difference detection system.
A high-sensitivity | + | pattern CCD covers a wider focus area to assure a
precise plane-of-focus even for subjects incorporating vertical and
horizontal lines. The central cross-sensor provides extraordinary accuracy
and increased spped of focus. Instant focus calculation and lens drive
assure the photographer is always ready to capture the perfect moment. Focus
is confirmed by the focus mark on the viewfinder LCD for simpler operation.
An infrared AF sub-beam activates automatically under low-light or
low-contrast conditions to ensure accurate focusing no matter what the
situation (Single AF Mode only).
Selectable Spot or Wide Autofocus
Area
You can choose whether your Mamiya 645AFD II is using the central
cross-sensor to focus, or the entire | + | focus sensor array pattern.
Individually
controlled Flash and Exposure Compensation for complete control of
mixed-lighting.
+/- 3EV or +/- 5EV ambient exposure
compensation for freedom of individual expression
The 645AFD II offers the high-level exposure compensation freedom to provide
serious photographers with a tool enhancing creative originality. Exposure
compensation is adjustable within the range of +/-3EV or +/- 5EV, in 1/3EV
steps. In the P (PH, PL), Tv and Av modes, the compensation value setting is
displayed in the viewfinder LCD panel.
Flash Compensation
When using a dedicated TTL flash unit such as Metz, electronic flash
compensation of +/- 3.0 EV in 1/3 steps is controlled on the camera body
plus ambient exposure compensation for complete control of mixed-light
situations. The camera also has viewfinder display of flash ready/OK
indicators. Program operation with TTL flash is controlled to 1/60 ~ 1/125
sec shutter speeds for easy shooting, especially in dark conditions.
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