New medium format camera can capture photos from square to Hasselblad XPan
The VZ-6617, a new analog medium-format camera, is currently being funded on Kickstarter. The special feature: the aspect ratio of the photos taken can be infinitely adjusted, from square photos in 6x6 format to panoramic images in 6x17 format, so that even wider images can be recorded than with a Hasselblad XPan.
The camera uses standard 120-format film ($25 on Amazon). The so-called Variable Zone Film Gate allows the width of the opening between the film and lens to be continuously adjusted after each photo, so that neither the camera nor the film need to be changed in order to change the aspect ratio of a photo. Instead of medium format lenses, the camera uses large format lenses whose image circle is sufficient for the panorama images.
The aperture and shutter are located in the lenses. Focusing is done by estimating the distance to the subject - the VZ-6617 is therefore not suitable for photos with a shallow depth of field. The 925 gram camera does not have any electronics or a viewfinder, although an optional cold shoe viewfinder is available.
Prices and availability
The VZ-6617 medium format camera from Exposing Engineering is currently being funded on Kickstarter. The "Essentials Bundle" with camera, optical viewfinder and lens cone for lenses with a focal length of your choice costs $599 plus shipping, import sales tax and customs duties. Delivery is expected to begin in August 2026. VZ-6617 is Exposing Engineering's first Kickstarter project. As is usual with Kickstarter, there is a risk that products may be delivered late or with quality defects.
Source(s)
Add as a preferredNo comments for this article
