Testing Pentax 645 Nii
I’ve recently had a few issues with my Contax 645 (not…uncommon). While I’m getting that fixed, I decided to try out the Pentax 645 system. I’ve heard wonderful things about these medium format cameras, and I’ve admired the results from a few second shooters over the years who shoot this system. I grabbed one from Ebay (decided on the newer Pentax 645 nii system), and I paired it with the 75mm 2.8 lens (autofocus).
While I’ve only run a few test rolls so far, I’m already loving it. To breakdown a few of the pros and cons I’ve discovered in comparison to the Contax system, I’ve made a shortened list below:
Contax 645 vs. Pentax 645 Nii
Where the Contax 645 Excels:
Creamy lens “fall-off”. This is one of the primary reasons photographers love the Contax 645 paired with the Zeiss 80 2.0. There is a tangible “creamy-ness” to the images.
16 Frames. The Contax 645 always shoots 16 frames on medium format film. The Pentax 645 Nii does have the ability to shoot 16 frames (rather than the inherent 15 frames) when it’s custom functions are used. But I’ve seen it warned that keeping this film in the camera for too long can result in film flatness.
Easy Insert Switching. The Contax 645 has an easy insert system where you can purchase inserts for the back. The Pentax system only has separate entire backs. You can certainly purchase the Pentax backs and essentially use them as inserts. And the catch here, is that Pentax backs are substantially cheaper than Contax inserts. Hmmm.
Contax 645 with Zeiss 80mm. Shot around F/4.0 with Kodak Portra 400 film.
Where the Pentax 645 Nii Excels:
Quick Autofocus. After using the Contax 645 for years (10-12+), I was incredibly surprised at how fast and accurate the Pentax 645Nii focusing was. In the 2 rolls I tested, I believe only 1-2 frames were missed focus (and still focused, just on something I didn’t intend on focusing on).
16 Frame Ability. The verdict is out on this one (I’ve sent off a test roll with 16 images shot on Pentax). The newer Pentax 645nii system allows you to use a custom function in order to shoot 16 rather than 15 frames. While there have been warnings of film flatness (if you leave film in there for too long), I’m assuming this can likely be avoided if you’re shooting the entire roll in one session/one wedding. And I’m no stranger to dealing with some film flatness in the Contax system.
Price. While the Pentax system has gone up in price the last few years, it’s still cheaper than purchasing a Contax 645 and Zeiss setup. If you’re new to film or looking for a less expensive way to get into medium format, this could be reason enough to go Pentax!
Shot on the Pentax 645nii with 75 F/2.8 with 15 frames per roll.
So, what’s the verdict?
I’m not sold either way (at this point). I have always struggled getting consistent focus on the Contax 645 at F/2.8 (and sometimes at F/4.0, too). It’s nice to have the option to shoot at F/2.0 on the Contax, but it’s not something I often do. While yes, you can notice a bit of a difference in “creaminess” of the Contax vs. the Pentax, it’s more important to me that I consistently nail focus, rather than have a creamy looking image. If the Pentax system can give me that, then I may start using this in my kit more.
