Medium format is a complicated term in photography that appeared before digital photography existed. Although medium format is difficult to understand at first, it will be useful in your photography journey. Understanding the term will allow you to be a versatile and professional photographer. 

This article will go over a full definition of medium format photography. We’ll also discuss its advantages, disadvantages, when to use it, and some useful tips. So keep on reading to learn all about the medium camera format.

What is a Medium Format Camera?

Medium format photography refers to a film lens any larger than 35 mm. This is rare in photography because most DSLR cameras have a lens of around 35 mm. Medium format cameras can be either a film camera with a sensor of 120 mm, or a digital camera that mimics this sensor size.

Medium camera formats are chosen for their excellent quality and unbeatable color accuracy. Most DSLRs on the market today are 35mm, so if you’re a novice photographer, chances are you’ve never interacted with a medium format camera. 

Medium format cameras have some disadvantages. This is why some major camera companies do not produce any medium format cameras – film or digital. However, some advanced photographers prefer medium format cameras for the unique-looking, high-quality images they create.

Advantages of Using Medium Format

Here are some advantages of using a medium camera format:

• High-quality images: Because of the wide sensor size, medium format cameras can create a stunning image that can look better than any DSLR camera, depending on what you’re shooting.

• Versatility: Medium format cameras are highly adjustable, making them suitable to use in almost any photography scenario. So, if you take lots of different types of photos, using a medium format might be perfect for you.

• Unique look: Professional photographers can determine if a photo was taken with a medium format camera just by looking at it. The unique look of these photos will make images stand out, especially if they were shot on a film camera.

• Wide field of view: The wide field of view is partially what makes a medium format image look unique. It also makes them great cameras to use for landscape and artistic photography. 

• Customizable: Medium format cameras can be completely customized to work best for whatever image you’re taking. Whatever setting you’re in. This means that you can set the camera up to get the best possible photo.

• Color: The colors seen through a medium format camera are unbeatable. Medium format cameras will give some of the most authentic colors you’ll see in any image. 

Disadvantages of Using Medium Format

Here are some disadvantages of medium format photography:

• Large and bulkier than DSLRs: DSLRs are often relatively compact, but this is not the story for medium format cameras. Most are heavy and can be challenging to hold for long periods. However, this problem can be solved by just taking a break from photographing whenever you need to.

• Hard to learn how to use: There’s a huge learning curve associated with medium format cameras, because their system is different from 35 mm sensor cameras. However, knowing how to use them is a great skill to have, especially if you’re using a film camera as opposed to a digital one.

• Very expensive: A medium film format camera is more costly than typical DSLRs. They also aren’t made by major camera companies, so they may be difficult to find in stores. However, most photographers would argue they’re worth this investment because of the photos they produce.

• Less convenient than DSLRs: DSLRs are pretty easy to use. With a medium format film camera, you have to take more time to set the camera and system up. If you’re using a film camera, you will also have to develop the film.

When to Use Medium Film Format Cameras

The advantages make medium format cameras great for:

• Landscape photography: The wide field of view makes medium format cameras perfect for any type of landscape photography. Whether you’re photographing a cityscape or a wide-open pasture, the medium film format will give your landscape photo a super unique look.

• Artistic photography: The unique look and true colors of these cameras are perfect for creating an avant-garde image. Medium format photos are immediately recognizable and will make your artistic photography stand out among the rest.

• Fashion photography: Like artistic photography, fashion photography calls for a unique-looking image that a medium format camera can help you create. A fashion photograph taken with a medium format camera will make clothing pop.

Tips for Using Medium Format Cameras

• Do your research before purchasing. Medium format cameras are super expensive, and you’ll want to make sure you are getting a good deal on a quality camera. Make sure you know which type of medium format camera you need before purchasing. You can do your research by reading forums, watching YouTube videos, or asking your photographer friends.

• Take a class, watch videos, or read a book on using the system for medium format cameras. They aren’t easy to use, so you’ll need to have some background info on the system before you even purchase the camera. It’s helpful to learn about using this camera from professional photographers, so taking a class with a teacher who is familiar with the format will be the best way to learn. There are many remote classes you can take to learn this skill right from home.

• Practice. Getting used to the new system may take a while, but most pro photographers would argue that it’s worth all the hard work. After you get your new camera, take as many photos as you can. Then, ask your friends and family to pose for you and shoot away. The more photos you take with the camera, the more comfortable you’ll get. And once you have your final photo shoot, create a digital slideshow and add music to show off your photographs.

In Conclusion

Medium format photography is a great niche to find yourself in when it comes to photography. It takes some learning, but a medium format camera can give you professional-looking photos with a unique feel. Of course, they aren’t for everyone, but using medium format is an excellent skill to master if you’re looking to improve your skills as a photographer. 

The best thing about it is that it creates images that stand out among the crowd. Hopefully, after reading this article, you feel more comfortable embarking on your journey with medium format cameras.