The Contax 645 camera is a medium format film camera that is highly regarded by many photographers. Here are some reasons why some photographers consider it to be the best camera ever:
As a wedding photographer, I have used SO many cameras over the years, but the Contax 645 stands out as the best camera for wedding photography. Here are some reasons why:
Image Quality
The Contax 645 is a medium format film camera that is renowned for its image quality. I love the image quality that I get from three variables; this camera, fujifilm 400h, and the lab I use to develop my film (shoutout to Richard Photo Lab in California.) The larger film size allows for more detail and a wider dynamic range, resulting in stunning images that capture the beauty of the wedding day.
Reliability
The Contax 645 is a reliable camera that can withstand the rigors of wedding photography. It is built to last and can handle the demands of a long day of shooting. I don’t use this camera for anything else, but realistically, if it can handle a wedding day, then it can handle almost anything.
Ease of Use
The Contax 645 is an easy camera to use, even for those who are new to film photography. It has a simple and intuitive interface that allows photographers to focus on capturing the moment rather than fiddling with settings.
Lens Selection
The Contax 645 has a wide selection of high-quality lenses available, including the Zeiss 80mm f/2.0 lens, which is a favorite among wedding photographers. These lenses produce sharp, beautiful images with a pleasing bokeh that is perfect for wedding photography.
Aesthetics
The Contax 645 is a beautiful camera that looks great in photos and adds to the overall aesthetic of the wedding day It is a classic camera that has a timeless look and feel, making it a perfect choice for wedding photography.
Auto-Focus
This is a major feature other medium format cameras didn’t really have before this camera came on the scene in the 90s, The AutoFocus feature was a total game changer, I’ve used and sometimes still use medium format cameras for the 70s and 80s that don’t have auto focus, and they’re cool but it is just another thing that slows me down, especially on a fast paced day like a wedding. The auto focus feature shaves off a few seconds for each exposure I take, which really is so valuable, when I have a model or a bride just standing there waiting for me to snap the photo.
In conclusion, the Contax 645 is my favorite camera for wedding photography due to its image quality, reliability, ease of use, lens selection, and aesthetics and most of all, the color profile I get when I use now somewhat defunct Fujifilm 400H. Unfortunately they don’t make these anymore, and people are paying top dollar for these babys. I know I overpaid for mine, but I was able to secure a mint condition unit straight from the factory in Japan. If you can afford one, it will bring so much joy and hopefully help you discover love for photography!