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Medium format has become a somewhat obscure term in the modern photography community following the rise of digital cameras. Back when film reigned supreme, there were a wide variety of film formats that were compatible with different analog cameras, including medium format and the popular 135 film frame (36x24mm)—commonly referred to as the “full-frame” format in digital SLRs and mirrorless cameras. But these days, the camera format range is largely binary, with APS-C or crop sensor and full-frame as the most common—if not the only—formats used in digital cameras.
Despite the widespread popularity of the two previously mentioned formats, medium format never really went away. In fact, it’s still the preferred camera format in commercial photography due to its ability to deliver unbeatable image quality, and in recent years we’ve seen a growing interest in medium format photography thanks to the renewed popularity of film, as well as the fact that well-known brands like Fujifilm, Leica, and Hasselblad have recently come out with medium format digital cameras.
Medium format is any camera format that makes use of the 120 film size or utilizes a digital imaging sensor that mimics that size. This format captures images that are slightly smaller than the large format film size (102x127mm). However, they are much bigger than those taken using full-frame sensors or 135 film. There is no standard size for medium format and it normally varies between manufacturers.
Medium-format cameras are known for producing extremely high-quality images and delivering near-perfect accuracy when it comes to color reproduction. This is why this type of camera is typically used in fashion and advertising photography. Advertising, which normally requires large and highly detailed images, greatly benefits from the exceptional image quality that medium format cameras offer. That’s why most magazine cover photoshoots use this type of camera.
Other examples of medium format images can be seen among the works of renowned fashion photographers like Terry O’Neill and David Bailey. These were popular figures in fashion photography in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Both reportedly used a Hasselblad medium format camera in shooting their fashion photos.
The medium format vs. full-frame comparison starts with the sensor size. While a full-frame camera uses a 35mm film or mimics it with a 36x24mm sensor, a medium format camera has a sensor larger than 36mm and smaller than 100x130mm (the large format sensor size). The difference in sensor size dictates differences in image quality, weight, and price. A medium format camera provides better image quality, color accuracy, and level of detail, but it is heavier, bulkier, and more expensive.
You should know that the medium format is not designed for video or burst shooting. But it has an internal shutter and doesn’t have to synchronize with the flash. So you can use a medium format camera to take photographs at fast speeds.
Here are the main characteristics that can help differentiate a traditional medium format camera from other types of cameras:
As previously discussed, the enlarged image sensors in medium format cameras are much bigger than the 35mm full-frame sensor found in most high-end DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras. In digital cameras, medium format sensor sizes typically range from around 43.8×32.9mm to 53.7×40.2mm. Larger image sensors generally result in images of a much higher resolution.
Medium format cameras are traditionally bigger and heavier than most cameras due to their large sensors. Fortunately, more and more camera brands are coming out with lighter and more compact camera bodies (in mirrorless camera form) with the same medium format shooting capabilities—like the Fujifilm GFX 50R, a popular camera that is also compatible with Capture One.
Due to the varying medium format film sizes and the ability to switch out film backs, shooters who own a medium format film camera are able to use different frame sizes and aspect ratios for more versatility in their images. The same can be said of medium format digital cameras, although you can’t simply switch out the sensor—you simply have the freedom of choosing between the various models available and choosing the camera with the sensor size that fits your specific needs.
Traditional medium format film cameras have interchangeable parts. That means you can detach a few components that came with your camera and attach a new viewfinder, film or digital camera back, focus system, and so on without the need for adapters.
We already think DSLRs and mirrorless produce “high-quality” images. But the larger sensors on medium format cameras offer even more or bigger megapixels. The larger image area on medium format cameras can produce around 70% bigger and higher resolution photos compared to those taken with full-frame cameras.
Shallower depth of field: there’s a reason portrait and wedding photographers from the ‘70s to ‘90s were all about medium format. There’s just something magical about the falloff and depth you can get, making them a natural choice for portraits.
Cropping: some of the formats, especially 6×7, lend themselves to magazine layout much better than 35mm.
Medium format cameras have the unique capability to combine the features of a wide angle lens and a long lens all in one device. While it allows you to get a wider field of view, you also get the background compression and shallow depth of field that you would get with a long focal length lens.
Even when viewing medium format images on the web, its signature “look” is apparent. There’s nothing quite as beautiful and realistic as medium format images due to their amazing colors, shallow depth of field, and lack of perception distortion that we usually see from today’s cameras. The resulting image always offers a more natural view, similar to the qualities and dynamic range of what we see in real life.
When you have the freedom to use interchangeable camera components, you can customize the camera according to your specific photographic needs. This also gives you the opportunity to change from film to digital (and vice versa). You can patiently practice the art of film photography and also take quick, soft copies of your images.
At first glance, switching to a medium-format camera system may seem like a no-brainer. But there are a few disadvantages to consider before you trade in your DSLR camera.
Medium format cameras are often physically larger, bulkier, and heavier than their DSLR or mirrorless counterparts.
There’s a significant learning curve for using a brand-new camera system, too. If you’re accustomed to your current camera system, adjusting to a medium-format camera may take some time. Learning to use a rangefinder-style camera can even feel clumsy at first.
Medium format cameras are also often more expensive than their DSLR camera system counterparts. The cost of a medium-format camera body is only one of the financial considerations when it comes to making the switch. You can expect to invest in all new lenses and camera backs as well.
As its name implies, medium format film cameras use film as its medium—commonly 120 film and 220 film sizes. They were originally marketed for consumer use from 1901 until around 1950, with the former being the most used between the two.
The film for analog medium format cameras varies in size:
When the medium format cameras started sporting digital backs, they were considered the first “digital cameras” ever developed. They either had full-frame or crop sensors, and the most popular brands were Hasselblad and Phase One. The backs are also available in a variety of mounts, which means they can be used with a wide range of standard camera bodies—may it be an older Hasselblad with a V-mount or the more modern Mamiya RZ57.
Despite being less popular these days, digital backs are still rather expensive, with prices ranging from $4,000 to $35,000.
Eventually, medium-format digital cameras evolved to have much smaller and more lightweight bodies that look just like any other DSLR or mirrorless camera. But you won’t see the same common camera manufacturers like Canon and Nikon represented in medium format. Some of the best medium format cameras of today are manufactured by Fuji, Leica, and of course, Hasselblad. Focusing systems have shifted away from the rangefinder model, too.
The sensors in these cameras now usually feature the new and improved versions of the CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) image sensors. These sensors are better at low-light situations than the earlier, more expensive CCD (charge-coupled device) image sensors on older medium format cameras. Higher ISO medium format images are far more usable than they were in the past.
The autofocus speed on modern medium-format digital cameras still can’t match that of digital cameras with smaller sensors. However, the former remains to create the kind of photos that other cameras can’t replicate.
The biggest downside of a medium format camera is that they are usually very expensive. Most are bigger and bulkier than other cameras with smaller sensors. But many of the newer ones, particularly the mirrorless ones by Fujifilm and Hasselblad, are considerably lighter and more portable. They also have the added attraction of being weather-sealed and can record high-resolution video.
Most also have slower burst modes and less advanced autofocus systems, although this is likely to change when camera brands come out with newer medium-format models.
The bottom line is that medium-format cameras are definitely not for everybody. If you have the cash to spare and aren’t too concerned about having ultra-fast autofocus, then it’s certainly worth trying, if only for the stunning images you’re sure to create. It’s also a wise choice if you’re looking to get into fashion, advertising, and other types of commercial photography.
Whenever image quality and resolution are of the utmost importance, a medium format camera is still the best choice for the job. It’s not commonly used by the majority of today’s photographers and one is not likely to see it out in the wild, but that may be about to change soon.
Whether you’re shopping for your very first medium format camera or you’re looking for something new and exciting, here are some of the best options on the market today:
Extreme high resolution sets the GFX 100 II apart from other medium-format cameras. With 102MP, 4K 60p recording, and multiple cinema formats to choose from, this camera is an all-around winner. An updated AF algorithm from previous models is a helpful upgrade for moving subjects as well.
The X2D 100C camera from Hasselblad features a 100-megapixel medium format back-side illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor with 16-bit color depth, perfect for lush landscapes or stunning editorial photos. The camera’s lightning-fast focus is paired with a built-in 1TB SSD, letting you capture every moment with absolute clarity plus not having to worry about swapping out SD cards every few hundred takes.
The fact that the Hasselblad 907X & CFV 100C camera can capture images in 100MP should be attention-grabbing enough, but of course, there’s more! This medium format mirrorless unit has 294 phase detection autofocus zones offering a focusing speed up to 300% faster than its predecessor.
With a 43.8×32.9mm sensor, GFX 100S is a medium format that uses its 102MP to provide exquisite detail and color fidelity. In addition, it has image stabilization and phase-detection AF and comes in a weather-resistant body. Check out this hands-on review of the Fujifilm GFX 100S with photographer Ab Sesay.
Compact and powerful, the Hasselblad X1D II 50C includes a 3.6-inch touch display, an enhanced electronic viewfinder, a dynamic range of 14 stops, and impressive color rendering technology. Whether you shoot fashion photography, travel images, natural subjects, or cinematic projects, you’re sure to be impressed by this camera.
Image quality and color reproduction stand out as two major benefits of the Fuji GFX50S II, but there’s more to it than that. The extra-large 51.4MP sensor, upgraded image processor, 6.5 stops of in-body image stabilization, and impressive noise management make this a must-have camera for any photographer.
While there aren’t as many medium-format digital cameras on the market as traditional DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, there are plenty of options for medium-format imagery.
Each camera we’ve highlighted represents the market’s peak for responsiveness, overall design and user experience, functionality, auto-focusing, sensor size, and special features.
Whether you’re a die-hard Hasselblad fan or you’re looking for the next big thing, you can find a camera on our list that’s more than capable of providing the high-quality images and resolution you’re looking for.
No matter what camera style you prefer, your camera is only as good as the lens you use with it. Hasselblad, Fujifilm, and Pentax all offer a range of well-designed lenses in a variety of focal lengths, apertures, and quality classes to help you frame your shot exactly as you envision it. Before you choose your camera, check the available lenses and whether they suit your budget and needs.
Image stabilization, responsive autofocusing, broad dynamic range, reliable color rendering, and versatile shoot modes should all be on your list of factors to explore in your next medium-format camera.
While it’s common to hope for the highest resolution possible from any digital camera, it’s important to remember a larger sensor means larger files—and slower processing. For some speed-focused photographers, the highest megapixel count isn’t always the best option.
This year, the market for photography equipment is pushing the boundaries by releasing a variety of medium format lenses. It might be hard to choose since they just keep coming! But no need to worry, dear reader (err, photographer), we’re coming through with a list of the best ones that are worth your hard-earned money in 2024.
Using the Fujifilm Fujinon GF 55mm f/1.7 R WR lens, a lens that captures images so vividly will have your audience asking, “Did you capture this with your eyes?” and with its quality – you might as well have! It even has a stealthy and vibration-free DC motor that helps you focus on getting the shot, as well as two aspherical lenses and two ED lenses to wave that axial chromatic aberration goodbye!
Coming from Fujifilm’s finest class of lenses, this next one deserves a spot on this list. The Fujifilm GF 110mm F/2 R LM WR lens can accompany you through heavy snowstorms when the temp drops to –10 degrees Celsius, dusty photoshoot locations, and just about any weather. Plus, it has a focal length that’s equivalent to 87mm but in the 35mm format, meaning when you go wide, it can reach a brightness level of F2.0 – giving you a smooth bokeh.
“A big BANG for your buck!” states a satisfied customer of this lens. And when you look into the Venus 17mm f/4 lens’s features, you’re likely to agree. This Zero-D lens boasts a wide angle of view (113 degrees)! Additionally, if you’re familiar with the Zero-D product line, you’ll know that this lens will have a near-zero optical distortion rate, so you can capture it exactly the way you see it!
Been waiting for a budget medium format lens? The TTArtisan 90mm f/1.25 lens is the one for you at just $515.00! On top of its lower price compared to its competitors, this artistic lens is one of the top choices for portrait photography, specializing in close-ups with an angle of view of 27 degrees. Also, aperture control comes easy with this medium format lens thanks to its clicked aperture ring. It has the right amount of resistance and click, marking full stops from f/1.25 to f/16!
13 elements in 10 groups, four aspheric elements, three extra-low dispersion elements, and a 20mm-equivalent focal length – yeah, this next medium format lens comes strapped! Even with that much power, the XCD 25mm f/2.5 is a lighter lens and includes a linear stepping motor, offering any wielder a nimble and responsive lens!
Every medium format photographer that uses the Hasselblad 35-75mm f/3.5-4.5 lens gains access to high-level optical performance in a compact form. But do not let its light weight trick you into underestimating it! This lens can shoot moderately wide angles and can handle short telephoto focal lengths, delivering crystal-clear photographs that are sure to wow your audience.
Are you searching for a medium-format lens that can handle flash synchronization at all speeds? This 80mm f/1.9 lens from Hasselblad is exactly it. Complete with dual AF motors that replicate the power of a f/1.5 aperture and 63mm field of view on 35mm systems, this medium format lens is an absolute powerhouse.
The 45mm f/4.0 lens was curated to be a reliable and durable instrument of medium format photography that will not burden users with a heavy lens (weighing only 320g). This lens offers a focal length equivalent to 36mm in 35mm terms and an aperture range of f/4 to f/32.
Now that we’ve addressed the uses, benefits, and camera selection aspects of switching to a medium-format camera, you’re well on your way to exploring this exciting type of photography.
Like any new camera, working with a medium-format camera will take some adjustment. But for those looking for larger-than-life images with gorgeous detail and colors, the learning curve is well worth the effort.
If you’re interested in trying out medium-format photography, but you’re not quite ready to take the plunge of investing in a new camera body, renting a camera is a smart first step.
Explore the world of medium format even more with the Exploring Medium Format Photography with Marcin Lewandowski series.
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