I picked up the Mamiya Universal online as a kit, complete with the 6×9 back, the 100 mm f/3.5, and the 150 mm f/5.6 lenses. Originally designed as a professional press and studio camera in the 1960s, the Universal is a fully modular medium format system built around interchangeable backs, lenses, and viewfinders.
It is a large and unapologetically mechanical camera, but also surprisingly versatile. The leaf-shutter lenses allow for flash sync at all speeds, and the 6×9 format makes full use of 120 film, producing big, detailed negatives that feel very different from 35 mm.
My first test shoot was a proper learning experience. I managed to change lenses with the dark slide removed, and also fired off several frames with the slide still in place, so it is safe to say the workflow takes some getting used to. Once slowed down and handled correctly, however, the Mamiya Universal starts to make sense, rewarding care and attention with excellent results and a very tactile shooting experience.
