This is my submission for the #monomad challenge
Back in 2022
My friend Thomas lent me a camera I was very curious to try - the Fuji GS645S. A medium format fixed focal range finder that has stood the test of time.
Built in the 80's, this camera was the final version of a series made my Fuji intended to capture the street photographer and traveler wanting to shoot high rez 120Film.
Unlike other version of the Fuji 645 rangefinder that succumbed to leaking bellows, failed electronics, or poor materials the GS645S is fully mechanical. A huge factor in its long lifespan as a functional cameras system.
When I was lent this camera, I was in the midst of trying to decide on a new 120Film Camera. My brain torn between mobility, image quality, cost, and ease of use. Many models teased my mind, and this particular model specifically had me curious.
In it, I saw a high quality and light weight 120 camera that would let me explore the backcountry, practice my street photography, and become a great option for everyday photography. But, after being burned on a previous potential camera I was hesitant to buy one. So, with the offer to borrow my friends I headed out to explore.
My first stop was a waterfall I'd been hoping to explore. These falls were MASSIVE. So much so, that I couldn't get anywhere near them, even with the wider 60mm f4 lens of the rangefinder I couldn't capture it all. So, I maneuvered around the Creekside to get a better angle. I also used a red filter to try and bring out some extra contrast. The camera has an internal light meter, but it is not coupled with the lens. So, after throwing my red filter on I initially forgot to adjust by 3stops... resulting in a very dark and moody image on the right.
I tried two more shots, one with a yellow filter, and one with the red. Can you guess which are which?
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Overall, I really enjoyed the GS645S. A stellar camera that did ultimately tick off most of the boxes I had for a 120 Film camera. Easy to use, discrete, high quality, and good optics. However, in using it I did realize something important. For me, the one thing it didn't check off was an interchangeable system. The limitations of having a single fixed lens really showed itself when I wanted to photograph the waterfall. A scene that I knew I would often want to try and capture as I hike and explore the woods. And so, while grateful to have been able to experience this beautiful machine, I had to return it and move on from the fantasy of owning one.
I decided to finish off the roll with a walk through the City, trying to capture the urban environment as I would normally for street photography. This usually includes a mixture of urban environments and people maneuvering their daily life. I won't comment much on these, as I feel the images speak more by themselves.
Looking through the street photo I capture with it really showed me where it did shine though. A stellar setup for composing City streets. I'll be excited to try mimicking the look on 35mm film going forward - though, I suspect that will be a challenge.
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All images are owned and created by Dyptre www.dyptrephotography.ca