Should You Buy a Pentax 645Z?

When I first tried the Pentax 645Z medium format camera during 2016s Photokina in Cologne, I was very pleasantly surprised by the handling and overall user experience.

Image Credit: Pentax Official Brochure

Now, many years later, the Pentax 645Z is heavily discounted and second hand bodies are available. I would argue that this is the best time to get into digital medium format with a Pentax 645Z.

Reason 1

If you are looking for affordable, auto-focus medium format lenses, the Pentax 645Z is the best camera to choose. Why? Because contrary to new mirrorless medium format systems, used AF lenses for the Pentax system are very inexpensive. The old designed-for-film AF lenses are very good and work flawlessly on the 645Z.

Reason 2

Despite its “age”, the Pentax 645Z is still one of the best medium format digital cameras on the market. If you are looking for outstanding image quality for landscape work, look no further.

If you are a fashion photographer, I would argue that you don’t really need medium format. However, it is nice to show up with a big, capable camera on set.

I myself am already very tempted by the 645Z and might pick one up in the next couple of months.