Wildlife with medium format

Right Image: Pentax 67, 300mm f-4 lens, Fuji Provia 100, Bogen tripod and ball head.
Average metering and opening up +1 stop, 1/30 sec at f-4.

For very long wildlife photography, 35mm format is much better to use than medium format cameras. Longer and faster lenses in 35mm makes it easier to shoot wildlife. But for subjects that you can get close to, medium format cameras produce superb high detail images. 645 users have an advantage over other medium format systems. With the newer autofocus Pentax 645n, Mamiya 645AF, and Contax 645AF, and more available longer lenses offered for this format, 645 cameras can be used for most wildlife shots including fast actions. Pentax 67II also has a good range of telephoto lenses going up to a 1000mm reflex as well as 400mm, 500mm, 600mm, and two 800mm lenses. Most other system's longest lens is a 500mm. However, a 500mm lens should be enough for most situations. Equal to about 300mm in 35mm format, a 500mm will cover mammals and larger birds. You can even use shorter lenses such as a 300mm or a 400mm, and always enlarge a portion of the image to give the same perspective as a longer lens. A pentaprism is essential. A motor drive is useful for fast action shots. Since most medium format lenses are slower than 35mm lenses, a fast film is required for wildlife photography. ISO 100 is minimum. You can always push it to ISO 200 if you need some extra speed. You can also use ISO 400 films. More grainy than slower films, ISO 400 gives an extra two stops for faster shutter speeds, but since medium format negatives or slides need less enlargements for reproductions, the grain in ISO 400 would not show as much as it would in 35mm. You should also have an extra back ready for quick film change. 220 backs are much better as they give more exposures allowing you to concentrate on your subject without having to change films often.

The Master Guide for Wildlife Photographers

Detailing the knowledge required to obtain professional-quality wildlife photoes, and how to compose the perfect picture. The basic elements of wildlife photography are covered, including photographic equipment and information on the various species and their habits. Many wildlife photographs are critiqued, providing budding wildlife photographers with suggestions for improving their own images.