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Medium Format vs Full Frame Considerations
The choice of a medium format camera carries with it some assumptions that aren’t necessarily true. Let’s go over them.
The medium format look
The “look” of medium format images vs 35mm DSLR images is often cited as a reason to shoot medium format. But with respect to geometric parameters of optics there is no difference attributable to format size in the “look” of an image. There are aspects of focal length involved, but lens design exerts a rather large influence: the Zeiss Otus 55/1.4 APO-Distagon draws like a medium format lens. See the in-depth discussion in Format-Equivalent Depth of Field and F-Stop in MSI.
Aspect ratio
The Pentax 645Z uses a 4:3 aspect ratio, versus 3:2 for a DSLR. That in itself might be a key factor for some shooters (one way or another). A photographer who “sees” in 4:3 will have to crop the DSLR; a photographer who prefers 3:2 will have to crop the 4:3 image!
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Diglloyd Medium Format covers medium format camera systems, including the Hasselblad X1D and Fujifilm GFX.
These systems are hugely expensive, so make the right choice for your own needs (full frame vs medium format).
- In-depth lens evaluations covering behaviors not likely to be found anywhere else, based on real-world field shooting.
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- Aperture series from wide open through stopped down, showing the full range of lens performance and bokeh.
- Optical quality analysis of field curvature, focus shift, sharpness, flare, distortion, and performance in the field.