Best Medium & Large Format Film Cameras of 2025
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Medium and large format film cameras offer unparalleled image quality and detail that simply cannot be matched by digital cameras. These cameras use larger film formats, resulting in sharper and more detailed images with a wider dynamic range. They are perfect for professional photographers who demand the highest level of image quality and control. Medium format cameras typically use 120 or 220 roll film, while large format cameras use individual sheets of film. These cameras require a bit more skill and patience to use, but the results are well worth the effort. Whether shooting landscapes, portraits, or still life, medium and large format film cameras are the ultimate tool for capturing stunning, high-quality images.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 7 Medium & Large Format Film Cameras
DAYI Universal Roll Film Back
The DAYI Roll Film Back is a versatile accessory for your 4x5 large format camera, designed to support multiple film formats including 6x17, 6x14, and 6x12. Constructed from durable metal, this film back ensures longevity while being compatible with various brands like Linhof and Sinar. By using lenses between 90mm and 150mm, you can capture stunning images with ease. The package includes a dark slide and film mask, providing convenience and protection for your film during exposure and handling.
Fujifilm GFX 100S II Camera Bundle
The Fujifilm GFX 100S II is a powerful medium format mirrorless camera designed to elevate your photography experience. It features a cutting-edge 102MP sensor combined with the X-Processor 5 imaging engine, ensuring stunning image quality and detail. With its lightweight and ergonomic design, this camera is easy to handle, making it ideal for long shooting sessions. The high-resolution electronic viewfinder offers clear visuals, enabling you to frame your shots perfectly. Additionally, it supports up to 7 frames per second, allowing you to capture fast-moving subjects with ease.
Shen Hao PTB45-B Large Format Camera
The Shen Hao PTB45-B Camera is a versatile large format option, crafted from durable black walnut and aluminum alloy. With a bellows extension of 45mm to 390mm, you can easily capture a variety of perspectives and compositions. The camera features impressive movements, including a 45mm rise and 35mm fall, allowing you to control the framing of your shots effectively. Additionally, the ±60° swing and tilt movements enhance your creative options, making it easier to achieve the desired focus and depth in your photography. The lightweight design at just 1.4kg adds to its portability, ensuring you can take it anywhere.
Shen Hao SH-TFC617-A Panorama Camera
The Shen Hao Panorama Camera is crafted from durable black walnut and aluminum alloy, making it both sturdy and stylish. With a front rise of 56mm and a fall of 22mm, you can easily adjust the camera for various shooting angles, ensuring you capture the perfect shot. The ±36mm shift feature allows you to compose images without moving the camera, giving you flexibility in framing. Additionally, the swing and tilt capabilities provide further control over perspective and depth of field, enhancing your creative options. This camera is designed to help you achieve stunning panoramic images with ease.
Shen Hao TZ45 IIC 4X5 Camera
The Shen Hao 4X5 Camera is designed for serious photographers looking for a reliable medium and large format camera. It features a folding design that allows for easy transport and setup. Made from durable black walnut and aluminum alloy, this camera is both sturdy and lightweight, weighing only 2.4 kg. Its extensive bellows draw extension, ranging from 75 mm to 340 mm, provides flexibility in capturing a variety of scenes. Additionally, the camera offers multiple adjustments, including rise, fall, and tilt, ensuring you can achieve the perfect composition for your shots.
eTone HZX45-IIA Walnut Wood Camera
The eTone Walnut Field Camera is crafted from natural black walnut and copper, giving each piece a unique look. With a bellows extension ranging from 50 to 360mm, you can easily adjust the focus to capture stunning images at varying distances. The compact dimensions of 170 x 170 x 100mm make it portable for outdoor photography. It also comes with a Copal #0 lens board, allowing you to attach your preferred lens for enhanced versatility. However, please note that the lens and spirit level are not included, so be sure to have those on hand for optimal use.
Shen Hao SH HZX 45-F Camera
The eTone 4x5 Folding Camera is a versatile choice for photography enthusiasts looking to explore large format film. It features a 4x5 inch format, allowing you to capture breathtaking details in your images. Its foldable design makes it easy to transport, so you can take it on your adventures without hassle. This camera is categorized under medium and large format film cameras, catering to those who appreciate high-quality photography. With its robust build and user-friendly features, this camera is perfect for both beginners and seasoned photographers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the largest film camera format?
The largest film camera format is the large format, which typically refers to a camera with a frame size of 4x5 inches or larger. The 8x10 format is often considered the largest and most detailed large format film camera that doesn't require further enhancement during image development.
2. Are medium format film cameras still being made?
Yes, medium format film cameras are still being made today. There are various types available, including view cameras and technical cameras, in both large format and medium format designs.
3. Is a medium format film camera worth it?
A medium format film camera can be worth it if you prioritize the best possible image quality. While they may be more expensive than full-frame cameras, medium format cameras offer even better image quality, with the ability to capture more detail and resolution.
4. What camera is bigger than medium format?
Large format film cameras are bigger than medium format cameras. Large format cameras have larger frame sizes, such as 4x5 inches or more, while medium format cameras often have frame sizes like 6x6 cm or 6x9 cm.
5. Do people still use large format cameras?
While some photographers still use old manual large format film cameras, many modern photographers prefer digital large format cameras for their flexibility. Wide format lenses are often used with large format cameras to achieve desired results.
6. What's better, 35mm or medium format?
Medium format film offers better image quality compared to 35mm film. The larger surface area of medium format film allows for more detail, resolution, and dynamic range. This results in sharper, richer, and more nuanced images, especially when enlarged or printed.
7. Why is medium format so expensive?
Medium format cameras tend to be more expensive because their sensors are larger than those found in smaller format cameras. The larger sensors require more expensive production processes, which contributes to the higher cost of medium format cameras.
During our medium & large format film camera research, we found 16 medium & large format film camera products and shortlisted 7 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,686 customer reviews through our big data system to write the medium & large format film cameras list. We found that most customers choose medium & large format film cameras with an average price of $845.42.
The medium & large format film cameras are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of medium & large format film cameras, including DAYI, Fujifilm, Shen Hao, eTone. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 94 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
Alan Eaton is a seasoned writer whose expertise is in anything related to electronics, such as headphones, monitoring equipment, computer, and so on, built over a 15-year career in the technology industry. Working in the trade during his youth, he accumulated a great deal of knowledge about machinery.