Digital BW, The Print

Hello Alex,

> I have been using 645 format and wish to obtain
> higher resolution for 16x20 prints. I have
> been seriously drooling over a Mamiya 7 or RB 
> 67.  A pro friend of mine, who has been great 
> in evaluating my prints and giving good help
> says that a 'transition' from 6x4.5 to 6x7 
> is not worth the effort and that if I want 
> higher res, the only option is 4x5.

Of course 4x5 will make a greater difference than 6x7.  The question
is whether it's worth the costs.  Having used all three formats, I can
say that going from 645 to 67 will make a huge difference.   It
increases the area by more than 50%.  6x7 negs are a joy to print, and
if you need to crop you have lots of real estate.  

The problem with going to 4x5 is you get into view camera territory,
which you may or may not want.  Costs and hassles increase enormously
(although a 4x5 neg is a gorgeous thing to work with).  

IMO, the costs incurred by moving from 645 to 67 are worth it.  Some
years ago I sold off a 67 system and built a 645 outfit, thinking I
wanted something smaller and lighter.  I was so disappointed I sold
the 645 stuff and rebuilt a new 67 system again.  I use the Pentax 67
system.  Absolutely superb lenses.

Regards,
Clayton


Info on black and white digital printing at    
http://www.cjcom.net/digiprnarts.htm