TLR Design

 

"The twin lens is obsolete...Who would want one?"

 

I strongly disagree with that statement. Let me try to convince you.

 

SLR cameras are certainly more useful for certain types of photography but the TLR has some important advantages that flow directly from its design. In an SLR there is a large and heavy mirror that has to move at high speed with every exposure. The mirror slows down response but more importantly it creates a strong slap that you can hear and feel, particularly in a medium format camera (this is the source of the Hasselblad "thunk.") The slap makes noise that can be objectionable, particularly if you are shooting weddings or strangers on the street. It also creates vibration that degrades your photos, even with a tripod.

 

In contrast, there is no mirror slap on the TLR. The shutter is very quite, nearly silent in a large room and there is greatly reduced vibration, which makes for sharper photos, particularly when hand-held or with long exposures.

 

In addition to the functional advantages, the TLR design has a charm not found in SLR designs. I find that people open up to a camera that they see as a charming oddity and this gets you better pictures.

 

Finally the Mamiya TLRs have long built in bellows that allows it to focus much more closely than other cameras.

 

This Camera

 

The model for sale is the late production C220. It comes with the standard 80mm lens. The lens is very sharp; I have found that it compares favorably with much more expensive systems (though some of this may be the inherent advantages of the TLR design).

 

The camera shows moderate wear and works perfectly. The focus and all controls are smooth and the shutter is strong and accurate at all speeds. The lens is clean and free of scratches. This is a good camera for professional results. The manual is included on CD.

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