Bronica SQ 135 W Panorama Back, user feedback desired

[GerrySiegel]

I notice below that the price of this back has come down to the point

where I could try one out,with small financial investment for my SQA.

Any comments from users on the forum?. How do you deal w/ the printing

or scanning of the long images? Any downsides to loading or processing

results? Is a special screen really vital? Does the back get enough

use vis a vis stitch type panorama-style photos to make it fun to use?

Is the loading insert fairly user friendly compared to a 35 mm manual

type advanced camera. And would anyone encourage such a purchase for

say 150 dollars with shipping from KEH. Since 35mm will outlast all

the 120 emulsions it may also be a niche reason to use the big lens of

the SQ series camera I have. Thanks for any first hand user feedback

in advance. Gerry

[kevin_ing]

I have one but use it rarely... Still, it's a decently made film back and not difficult to use at all. I did get a focusing screen with guide lines for the 35mm panoramic frame -- without such a screen or mask you'd only be guessing as to what you'll get on film.

 

I usually shoot color positive film. Printing the 35mm panoramic format might be hard... most likely requiring custom work. Scanning is not a problem, though.

 

Overall, it's an interesting accessory, but not a "must have" item, IMO.

 

-Kevin