There’s even a 0.7 fps SQ-I motor drive–not the fastest around, but still useful when shooting sequences. Other accessories include 6×6, 6×4.5, and 35mm backs with easy-loading inserts, a Polaroid back, and, my personal favorite, the Speed Grip S, which makes manual film advance easier with its top-mounted wind lever, and endows the camera with much better handling in the field. Auto exposure metering can be added with the AE Prism Finder S, and you can get TTL manual metering with either the ME Prism Finder S or the MF prism finder S. There are TTL flash modules for the Metz 386, Quantim “Q” Flash and Sunpak systems. In addition to lenses ranging from 40-500mm (including Zenzanon PS lenses that compare favorably to their Schneider and Zeiss counterparts) the SQ-AI accepts practically any accessory you can think of. As for repairs, they should be readily available for decades to come since Bronicas were produced for many years. Prices for clean Bronica stuff are currently at an all-time low, and with the recent discontinuance of the entire Bronica line, they are unlikely to get any more plentiful. The Bronica SQ-AI is not merely a camera, but an system of photography, and if you want the whole enchilada in pristine condition, now is the time to buy it. You can easily number the truly great and 2-1/4 SLR systems on the fingers of one hand, and the Bronica SQ-AI would have to be on this exclusive list. The SQ-AI features a mirror lockup for long exposures, and the leaf-shutter design allows full flash sync to 1/500 sec. And their electronically controlled inter-lens leaf shutters and fully integrated electronic interfaces have become industry standards. They are also far less expensive than the Swedish Hasselblads that inspired them, particularly the lenses, which include many impressive performers in the line that will give even the Zeiss Hasselblad optics a run for the money. I know I could accomplish a medium format digital look through other newer digital cameras, but I’m looking for that modular waist level experience that the Bronica provides.Bronicas in general, and the 2-1/4×2-1/4-format Bronica SQ-AI in particular, have proven to be reliable workhorse cameras that can stand up to the rigors of professional use, as many a wedding photographer can attest. I love 6圆 and would ideally like to find something close to that format but I’m open to other options because I don’t want to break the bank. I’ve seen a few (pricey) adapters that will allow a Hasselblad V back to be fitted to the SQ-A which are very intriguing to me, but I don’t know much at all about what digital backs are out there. With all that being said, I’m curious what sort of digital back options are out there. I develop and scan all of my own film at home with the CineStill C41 kit and a Canon 5D Mark IV with 100mm f/2.8L Macro Lens (sometimes use the same lens adapted to a Sony A7iii). The mirror slap, the winding sound, the beautiful viewfinder it’s all an experience in itself that provides everything I love most about taking photos. I’ve put about 50-60 rolls through it since I’ve owned it and it’s been a lovely experience. Preface: I’ve been shooting with the SQ-A for about a year now and I love it more than I can say with words.
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