I like your reasoning. I am somewhat hesitating on getting a MF due to lack of knowledge. I mean what additional software do I have to get and learn.
My next thing was to just buy the Mamiya AFD II and shoot some film until I am able to get the extra $$$ to buy a reasonable Digital back. I have only $ 4,000 to invest right now. I put money into a Canon 5D Mk2 and 5D system and have little $$ to play with. I shoot mainly weddings and I wanted to use the MF pretty much for my Bridal portraits on location ( I have no studio)
Any suggestions for me?? Greatly appreciated. rollsman
There are some people that use the MF system at weddings. I currently use the 5DII and I have no reason to use a MF camera. I see no advantage of carrying (and worrying) about another system just for the portraits.
My re-introduction for the MF is to use it for engagements, bridal, portraiture. It doesn't fit with my shooting style at an actual wedding. My 5d + 70-200 2.8 combo is heavy. The Mamiya 645 + 210mm it puts it to shame in terms of weight. Also, because of the slower focusing, it's not suited for action. You take in consideration the high ISO performance, and there is no competition (at least at this point).
When you take in consideration the cost of a MFDB, it doesn't make sense (business wise) to start using it at weddings and not charge extra. You need to introduce a product that will make you more money. The problem is that it's hard to convince people to pay more for wedding coverage just because you bring MF. It's easier to introduce a new product around the MF advantages, that will bring you money. That's what I'm currently doing, but with film in the mean time.
I've been trying to find out how much (approximately) a P30+ back sells for (used) and it seems that it's a secret
. So, I can't tell you if your budget allows for something decent or not
. Nobody wants to give a range, not even the guys from dealers that are in this forum.
As far as software, I already own C1 and LR, the two most used ones for RAW conversion. Hassy and Leaf have their own software but I don't know if it's included or you have to buy it separately.
Try to find a place that have both systems (Hassy and Mamiya) and see which ones feels right to you.
I do know that Hassy is not cheap. I found an H2 with the 80mm (no back) for $3k. Even the film back is not cheap.