If you’re at all interested in medium-format photography, then the New York Institute of Photography’s review of the Pentax 645NII camera will be well worth reading.

“This month our own tough and intrepid writer, Medium Format Marie, gives readers her impressions of the Pentax 645NII medium format SLR.  Marie took the camera to the Jersey shore on one of the coldest days of the year.  “We’ve been spoiled here for years now,” Marie says, “winters have been mild and we haven’t had much snow, but this year we’re having a real winter.  And with that come those great days with clear blue bright skies.  Cold weather aside; I had a terrific time with this camera!”

Marie writes, “Let’s not forget why we’re all considering moving up to medium format in the first place - those big beautiful negatives and the ability to make bigger and better enlargements!  The 645NII blends the convenience of a 35mm camera with medium format benefits.  My impression is that this camera, combined with a few great Pentax lenses and accessories, would be a great choice even for pros.”

Chuck DeLaney, Dean of the New York Institute of Photography (NYI), the world’s largest photography school, says, “Sadly, many photographers never even dabble in the medium format.  This is a shame, and one that we’re out to fix.  That’s where Marie comes in.  She’s tough, she’s a gear head, and she’s taking her camera to the streets.  We don’t have advertisers to please, so Marie can write whatever she wants about each model she gets her hands on.  Every few issues, Marie will be back with a review of a medium format model, some of which are decidedly inexpensive.  In fact, there’s a plastic medium format camera, the Holga, that sells for around $20!  Our intrepid staffer, June Lang, started the ball rolling by writing “Capturing Mermaids with a Holga.”

Website: Pentax 645NII Review

“Reprinted with permission from the New York Institute of Photography web site at http://www.nyip.com”