Mamiya 645AFDIII Body with Neck Strap

Mamiya 645AFDIII Body with Neck Strap

Note: This is the Mamiya 645AFDIII Body only

Faster focusing... Greater connectivity... Easy to use... The Mamiya 645AFD III

Responding to the demands of medium format film and digital shooters, Mamiya has incorporated the latest auto focusing technology into the 645AFD III. The Mamiya 645AFD III employs a new, powerful and silent coreless motor that makes its auto focus system faster and quieter than ever before. A new focusing algorithm provides precise focusing under a wide range of lighting situations. To further improve focusing control, the focusing point is user-selectable and can be positioned in the center, right or left side of the screen or can be set on “auto” to let the camera focus on the closest subject.

Mamiya pioneered the world’s first true cross-platform film or digital camera, and includes its latest MSCE (Mamiya Serial Communication for External) data transfer technology in the 645AFD III. 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 III 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 III for fast activation of such functions as multiple exposures, auto-bracketing, key lock, auto exposure lock and auto focus lock. The Mamiya 645AFD III 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 III Telephoto and Zoom lenses, plus the ultra-wide angle 28mm and 35mm lenses have a quick-change auto focus clutch mechanism that makes 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.

(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 or 1/3 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 or 1/3 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 or 1/3 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.

(B) Bulb Mode
This is a manual mode for long exposures.

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.

Ease of Use

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 III is a camera for the digital imaging age. Interchangeable film magazines enhance creative application of the 6 x 4.5cm format. The 645AFD III 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 III also supports digital imaging with Mamiya’s unique MSCE protocol.

Uses standard and inexpensive AA batteries or Rechargeable Nickel Metal-Hydride
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. Convenient, high power rechargeable NiMH AA batteries can be used on the 645AFD III.

Time Saving Features

Auto-detect of First Frame of Film
The 645AFD III 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.

Useful Features

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 Bulb (B); 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. Focal length of the lens used is also able to be printed on the film.

Custom Function settings
There are three Custom Users (A, B & C) and 36 custom settings accessible by selecting CF on the exposure mode dial. Having three separately-adjustable users allows for multiple setups for different people or preferences, making adjustments swift and effortless. Make the 645AFD III 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.

Film Magazines

AF 120/220 roll film magazine
This film magazine incorporates a microprocessor that communicates with the camera body and magazine LCD. The LCD shows film speed, film type, and number of exposures at the touch of a button. It has a double-action safety locking mechanism that requires two motions to remove the film magazine from the camera body, preventing accidental detachment. The 120/220 film insert features a center-mounted auto wind motor for fast smooth film advance. A backlight and backup battery let the photographer view information when the magazine is not attached to the camera. Simply rotating the pressure plate 180 degrees switches between 120 and 220 film, and ensures that either type of film is kept perfectly flat. It is possible to switch between single and continuous exposures even partway through a roll of film. An easy loading feature automatically advances film to the first frame when loaded without aligning the "Start Mark".

AF Polaroid film back
Polaroid film enables previewing of images. Simply replace the film magazine with the Polaroid back to obtain immediate feedback on composition, lighting and exposure, as well as the effects of complex lighting conditions, multiple exposures, or extended exposures. Polaroid film is also the perfect choice for commemorative photographs and snapshots. The image size is 6 x 4.5cm (Actual image size: 56 x 41.5mm), and the magazine accepts 3 ? x 4 ?" pull-type Polaroid pack film including 100 and 699 series film, as well as Fuji FP100 and FP3000B film. The Polaroid back also includes a film speed dial (IS025 to 6400), and a storage pocket for the dark slide. *The Polaroid Tripod Adapter N-2 is required when the camera is mounted on a tripod.

Digital Solutions

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 III accepts interchangeable 120/220 film magazines, Polaroid proofing backs and digital backs. Linking the body to digital backs is the innovative Mamiya Serial Communication for External (MSCE) 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. MSCE 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 fifteen and growing.

TTL flash control, 1/125-sec sync speed for versatile flash photography

Sophisticated TTL/OTF Flash Control
The Mamiya 645AFD III 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.

Smart Design

Retractable Shutter to Prevent Damage
The 645AFD III 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 III 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 III 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.

Other Features

Preview depth of field
Hold down the preview button anytime to stop down the lens to the working aperture and lock focus. Preview can be used in all AE modes.

Mirror Up
The 645AFD III is designed and engineered to minimize mirror shock. The Mirror Up function located on the shutter release dial eliminates mirror shock entirely during tripod-mounted slow speed, macro or multiple exposures. Use AE lock or manual settings in this mode.

Diopter adjusts viewfinder to vision
The built-in diopter enables adjustment of the viewfinder image to suit individual visual acuity. Rotate the dial towards + or - to adjust within a range of -2.5 to +0.5 diopter. Optionally available diopter lenses extend this range to -5 to -2 (nearsighted Cat.# 211-722) or 0 to +3 (farsighted Cat.# 211-723).

Eyepiece Shutter
The eyepiece shutter protects against stray light, coming from behind, entering through the eyepiece and affecting exposure values.

Remote Release Contact
For special situations, the supplementary release contact enables remote shutter release using a magnetic cable release (1 meter or 5 meter) or a wireless remote trigger.

Interchangeable Focusing Screens
Select the viewfinder screen to suit particular photographic needs. Each screen comes with tweezers to make installation quick and easy.

Powered by AA-size Batteries
Replacement batteries are readily available anywhere in the world. A reliable power supply is essential for a fully digital system. The Mamiya 645AFD III is powered by six easily obtainable AA-size Alkaline or long-life lithium batteries. Convenient, high power rechargeable NiMH AA batteries can also be used on the 645AFD III. Batteries are housed in the grip, providing a firm hold and contributing to overall balance.

About Auto-focus

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 III 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).

User-Selectable Multi-point Autofocus Area
For greater control and flexibility, the focusing point is user-selectable and can be positioned in the center, right or left side of the screen or can be set on "auto" to let the camera focus on the closest subject.

Individually controlled Flash and Exposure Comprensation for complete control of mixed-lighting.

+/- 3EV or +/- 5EV ambient exposure compensation for freedom of individual expression
The 645AFD III 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's LCD 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.