Mamiya 7 Instruction Manual

Congratulations on your purchase of the Mamiya 7 and welcome to the
world-wide family of happy Mamiya camera owners!

Mamiya pioneered the 6x7cm medium format SLR system camera when it
introduced the first Mamiya RB67 in 1970. In 1982 an additional model followed,
the Mamiya RZ67 with electronic features.

Both cameras soon became the market leaders and the preferred tool of trade
for portrait, commercial and magazine photographers all over the world and
established the 6x7 rectangular image as the "ideal format".

Now we are proud to present the Mamiya 7, 6 x 7cm rangefinder camera.

Reflecting Mamiya's traditional quality workmanship plus modern design, the
Mamiya 7 is compact and lightweight. It offers the handling ease of a 35mm
camera, while yielding far superior 4.5 times larger images. Featuring
interchangeable, rangefinder coupled lenses and AE metering, it also permits taking
24 x 65mm panoramic images on 35mm film, by means of an optional adapter kit.

The Mamiya 7 lens program includes a standard 80mm lens, a 65mm wide angle

lens, an ultra-wide 43mm lens and a 150mm telephoto lens.

The Mamiya 7 and its lenses have undergone extensive quality controls at every
step of manufacture. Please read this instruction manual thoroughly before you use
the camera. A proper understanding of all its features and functions will eliminate
potential misuse and ensure a long service life.

Contents

Mamiya 7, the ultimate 6 x 7

AE Lock (AEL) Photography ....................................20

Care and

1

rangefinder camera ....................................................2

Nomenclature and Functional Parts ..........................3

Inserting Battery .........................................................7

Removing Camera Body Cap .....................................7

Opening/Closing Light Shield Curtain ......................8

Mounting/Removing Lenses ......................................9

Battery Check ...........................................................10

Releasing the Shutter ...............................................11

Before Loading the Film ...........................................12

Loading the Film .......................................................13

Shutter Speed ...........................................................15

Shutter Release Button ............................................16

LED Indicators in the Viewfinder .............................16

Focusing the Lens ....................................................18

Taking Photographs .................................................19

AE (Automatic Exposure) Photography ..................20

Manual Photography ...............................................21

Self-Timer ................................................................21

Depth-of-Field ..........................................................22

Diopter Correction Lenses .....................................22

Exposure Compensation ........................................23

Time Exposures ......................................................23

Flash Photography ..................................................24

Infrared Photography ..............................................24

How to Hold the Camera ......................................... 25

Trouble Shooting ....................................................26

Lenses ......................................................................27

Accessories..............................................................28

System Chart............................................................29

Specifications...........................................................30

Common Sense Camera

Practice..................................................... 31

Mamiya 7, the ultimate 6x7 rangefinder camera.

2

The Mamiya 7 is the only camera in the world that has these
exclusive features:

• Ideal 6x7cm film format that enlarges to standard photographic
and industrial paper sizes without cropping and without wasting
film. A size that can be viewed with the naked eye and that is
easy to retouch.

• Lightweight, compact, "quick on the draw" and ergonomically
designed to fit in your hand like a glove.

• Crisp, accurate, broad based, split-image rangefinder, that is
easy to focus, even in poor light.

• Bright viewfinder with frame lines that are automatically indexed
to match the focal length of lens in use and that automatically
adjust for parallax.

• Interchangeable, world-class Mamiya lenses, utilizing the latest
optical glasses and computer aided design and that take
advantage of the camera's short flange focal distance (there is no
mirror box) to reach new heights in lens quality.

• Precision, super quiet, electronic shutter with speeds from 4 to
1/500 sec., flash synchronized at all speeds.

• Built-in "dark slide" curtain that permits changing lenses with
film in camera.

• Precision AE (automatic exposure) meter with manual
overrides.

• Selftimer (delayed action release) with automatic turn-off.

• Optional external battery case to wear inside clothing in
extreme cold.

• Optional panoramic adapter that permits use of 35mm film and
yields 24x65mm images.

• Built with typical Mamiya quality for hard professional use and
long service life.

Nomenclature and Functional Parts

Exposure compensation scale

Exposure counter window

"S" appears automatically when

back cover under this condition.)

Exposure compensation lever

Cable release socket

Shutter release button

Turn off after use

shutter is released.

Lens release button

Film speed window (ISO)

Shutter speed Index Mark

Self-timer button

Rangefinder coupling roller

good electrical contact.)

PC Terminal

mount/remove the lens.

3

opening the back cover. (Any
other numeral indicates that the
film is loaded. Do not open the

Power on/off lever

Self-timer pilot lamp

Lights for 8 seconds when the
Self-timer button is pressed, then
blinks for 2 seconds, after which the

Rangefinder window

Shows the field of view within the
bright frame and the double­image superimposed rangefinder.

Electronic contacts

(Do not touch contacts and keep
them clean in order not to impair

Bayonet mount

Lens alignment dot

Align with the dot on the lens to

Nomenclature and Functional Parts

Hot Shoe for mounting

electronic flash

Shutter speed dial

Film advance lever

Advance until it stops - the shutter is then cocked.

Film spool stud
Film holder spring

Back cover latch

Back cover lock release button

lock release button

Film starting indicator

Film type (120 or 220/135)

mark.

dots

When A or AEL on the shutter speed dial is aligned with the indicator
on the camera body, the dial will lock in place. To unlock it, rotate the
dial while pushing in the AE lock (AEL) release button located in the center.

Film setting index

Pressure plate

Set the pressure plate
position according to the film
type (120 or 220/135) used

.

Spool release levers

When replacing the film, be sure to
push this lever to the side to lower
the spool stud.

Exposure compensation

Be sure to align the film starting
indicator "'▼" on the camera with the
arrow on the film. (Incorrect alignment
may result in the film loading failure.)

Position the pressure plate with either
the 120, 220 or 135 roll film index

Light shield curtain closing lever

mark indicates that the curtain is closed.

Light shield curtain release

Used to open a closed curtain.

Battery chamber

lithium battery (2CR1/3).

Film Rewind Button

(use for 135 type film)

135" is indicated in this window.

Memo clip

Holds the film box top or memo as a film

type reminder.

Back cover

Viewfinder eyepiece

Rubber eyecup

Carrying strap lugs

Film spool stud

Lower cover

threads.

5

120-220/135 selector index
window

When the pressure plate is aligned with
the film type used, either "120" or "220/

Stores one of silver-oxide battery (4SR44),
alkaline manganese battery (4L-R44), or

Tripod socket

The socket has U1/4"

mark indicates that the curtain is open.

Nomenclature and Functional Parts

Aperture scale

Focusing ring

Used to focus the lens.

correct focusing range.

Aperture ring

distance.

usual focusing position.

Rangefinder coupling lever

6

Depth-of-field scale

Allows the aperture (f-stop) to
be checked in relation to the

Lens alignment dot

When mounting or changing a
lens, align this dot with the dot
on the camera body.

Distance scale (m-ft)

Used to set or read the subject-to-lens

Infrared index mark

When engaged in infrared photography,
use this mark to align lens according to

Inserting Battery

Removing camera body cap

[Power on/off]

The camera will not function without a

2CR1/3 lithium battery.

camera body.

”

7

battery.

1. Remove the battery chamber cover on

the bottom of the camera with a coin or
screwdriver.

2. The + terminal is indicated on the inside
of the battery chamber cover. Insert the
battery as shown in the Photo, being sure
to properly place the battery with the "+"
side up, facing the cover.

[Batteries]

The Mamiya 7 uses one of 4SR44 silver
oxide battery, 4LR44 alkaline battery or

1. Power can be turned on/off with the
small lever beside the shutter release
button.
(ON) Align the white dot on the lever

with the white dot on the

camera body.
(OFF) Align the white dot on the lever
with the red dot on the

While pressing the lens release button “A
in, rotate the cap counterclockwise, and
align the groove “B”
the lens alignment dot on the body. The
body cap can then be pulled out.

on the cap's side with

*The lens release button cannot be pressed
when the light shield curtain is open. So
make sure the curtain is closed. For curtain
opening/closing see page 8.

Opening/Closing Light Shield Curtain

[Opening the light shield curtain]

[Closing the light shield curtain]

Before opening/closing the light shield

otherwise, it will not open/close.

may result.

that it is closed.)

8

curtain, be sure to cock the shutter,

CAUTION:

Never touch the light shield curtain. If
touched, light leakage or a malfunction

* When the light shield curtain is open, the
lens cannot be removed. Close the curtain
to remove the lens.
* When the light shield curtain is closed,
the shutter cannot be released. When
taking a picture, open the light shield
curtain.
(If the light shield curtain is closed, the red
warning lamp in the viewfinder will indicate

Mounting/Removing Lenses

[Mounting lens]

[Removing lens]

lens when the lens is removed.

CAUTION

cloth to wipe them.

9

Remove the front and rear lens caps. The
front lens cap can be removed by
pressing in the tabs on the right and left
with your fingers and pulling the cap
towards you. The rear lens cap can be
removed by rotating it counterclockwise.
Align Lens Alignment Dot “A” with the
Camera Alignment Dot “B”. Insert the lens
into the camera body. Then turn the lens
in the direction of the arrow (clockwise)
until it clicks and locks into place.

Same method as removing the camera
body cap. While pressing in the lens
release button “A”,
direction of the arrow until the lens
alignment dot is lined up with the white
alignment dot “B”on the camera body.

Changing lens

* When the lens has been removed and
film remains in the camera body, avoid
exposure to direct sunlight as film fogging
may result.

* Put the front and rear lens cap on the

rotate the lens in the

1) As the rangefinder coupling roller
is precisely adjusted, be sure not to
touch with your hand or move it with
finger.

2) Gold plated electronic contacts
are located inside the bayonet
mount and at the rear of each lens.
If oil , dirt, or other foreign matter
collects on the contacts, poor
electronic information transfer may
result. When soiled, use a clean

CAUTION

each lens.

Battery Check

Replace the battery immediately.

10

3) Be careful not to damage the
rangefinder coupling lever and the
shutter cocking lever at the rear of

4)When mounting the 43mm or 65mm
wide angle lenses make sure that the
rear lens rims do not touch the
rangefinder coupling roller.

Position the front face of the lens which has
been removed as shown in the photo.

1. Set the shutter speed dial at A (Auto
Exposure) position. When the power is
turned on and the shutter release button is
touched slightly, the shutter speed is
indicated on the lower part of the
viewfinder.

1) When the shutter speed LED lights on,
the battery power is normal.

2) Blinking light of the shutter speed LED
indicates drop of the battery power below
the allowable level. Then replace the
battery.

3) No light or blinking light of the red
warning lamp on the lower left side of the
viewfinder indicates depletion of the
power, so that camera will not work.

Releasing the Shutter

how it works.

① Power on/off lever ...

② Film advance

③ Light shield curtain

.

(See page 7)

.......... Wind the lever to

cock the shutter .

.............................. Open.

(See page 8)

camera. Just leave the back cover open:

11

Before using the camera, it is advisable to understand

.......... Set to ON.

④ Back cover …………………………………Open.
(See page 12)

⑤ Release the shutter (See page 16)

Note:

If the shutter is not released, red warning lamp in
the viewfinder will light; repeat steps
again.

Tip:

To observe the function of the shutter release and
the interaction between the light shield curtain,
shutter and lenses, you need not load film in the

② to ④

Before Loading the Film

[Setting the film speed]

[Opening/closing the back cover]

press both corners until it clicks.

[Setting the film type]

position of the pressure plate.

otherwise incorrect exposure will result.

12

Set the film speed of the film being used
by lifting up the outer rim of the shutter
speed dial and rotate it until the correct
ISO value appears in the window.

• Be sure to set the exact film speed, as

While depressing the back cover lock
button, simultaneously push down the lock
lever in the direction of the arrow and the
back will open.
When closing the back cover, securely

• If pressure plate position is not matched
to the type of film used, a picture can be
taken but it might be out of focus.

This camera can use either 120 or 220/
135 film. To set for the type of film used,
simply rotate the pressure plate in either
direction of the arrow until the white dot is
at "120" or "220/135".
When set, "120" or "220/135" will appear
in the small window under the memo clip
on the rear of the camera.

The number of exposures on the film
counter is automatically set at 10 for 120
film and 20 for 220 film, according to the

Loading the Film

[Memo clip]

and position properly.

so that it engages smoothly.

13

This memo clip on the back cover is used
to hold the film box tab to serve as a
convenient reminder of the type of film in
the camera or for recording other data.

1. Push the spool release lever on right
side to the right, and install the take-up
spool in the take-up spool chamber, top
first, then push the lower spool stud up.

2. Like installing the take-up spool, push
the spool release lever on left side to the
left, place a roll of film in the film chamber,
making sure it seats properly. Make sure
the backing paper is in the position
illustrated above, black side facing the
lens, colored side towards the back.

* The product identification number, and
other data are printed on the outside of the
backing paper. If not visible, the film has
been loaded incorrectly. Simply remove

* When loading film or installing the
take-up spool, carefully place the spool in
the stud and make sure it is seated
properly by gently turning to the right or left

Loading the Film

3. When the new roll has been inserted,

14

the same as with 120 roll film.

*

be sure to reset the lower spool stud by
pressing it in. (Also, be sure to reset the
take-up spool stud in a similar manner.)

4. Pull out the backing paper, and insert
the tip into the slot on the take-up spool
as pictured.

Make sure backing paper advances
evenly between the spool flanges and
does not begin to slant. If it advances
unevenly, remove the backing paper
from the take-up spool and start over
again.
* If the film is not properly aligned with
the "▼" indicator, the film may be
improperly loaded and cause spacing
problems.
* When any other numeral than "S"
appears in the exposure counter
window, it is an indication that the film is
loaded. So do not open back cover.

5. Wind the film advance lever until the
small arrow (the starting indicator on
the backing paper) aligns with the film
starting indicator (▼) on the camera
body. Then close the back cover.

6. Wind the film advance lever until it
stops automatically and "1" appears in
the exposure counter window.

• When a 6EX roll film (5 exposures) is
used, the procedure of loading the film is

* Do not pull excessively on the backing
paper, and do not load/unload the film in
direct sunlight: bright light may fog the
film.
* When photographing with the 135
Panoramic Adapter, see its instructions.

Shutter Speed

[Determining the shutter speed]

while 125 indicates 1/125 seconds.

15

The Mamiya 7 has an aperture-priority,
AE lens shutter. Once the aperture and
film speed are set, the AE meter selects
a proper shutter speed in relation to the
set aperture.
In the manual photographic mode,
proper shutter speed is indicated by a
blinking red LED within the viewfinder.

1. To set the diaphragm to a desired
aperture, rotate the aperture ring “A”
until the appropriate figure is aligned with
the central red index line “B” (Click stops
are provided at each engraved aperture
number but the diaphragm can be set
also for intermediate stops.)

2. Rotate the shutter speed dial and
select either the A(Auto exposure) or
manual mode for photographing.
Rotate the dial to align it with the white
index line (-) on the camera body.
* At A or AEL, the dial is locked. The lock
can be released by pressing the AE lock
release button “A” in the center of dial.
* In any position other than A or AEL, the
shutter speed dial is in the manual mode
and moves freely from click-stop to
click-stop: it must be set on a specific
click-stop and cannot be used at an in
between setting.
* Intermediate Diaphragm settings
(between click stops) are possible
Intermediate Shutter Speeds (between
engraved numbers) are not possible.

Shutter speed dial:
A. (Automatic exposure)

Based on the aperture setting, the
camera automatically selects the
shutter speed.

AEL.(AE lock)

The camera memorizes the aperture
when shutter release button is
touched slightly so that, even when
the position of the subject or camera
changes, a picture can be taken with
the initial aperture setting and is not
affected by changes in light
conditions or subject contrast.

B. (Bulb exposure)

At this position, the shutter will remain
open as long as the shutter release
button is pressed.

Shutter controls

On the shutter speed dial the yellow
numbers indicate the number of
whole seconds while the white
numbers indicate fractions of
seconds.
Example: "4" indicates 4 seconds

Shutter Release Button

The shutter release button is designed so

of view of the wide angle lens.

LED Indicators in the Viewfinder

16

that pressure can be applied in two stages.
When it is lightly touched, correct metering
data is displayed on the bottom of the view
finder. When it is depressed all the way, the
shutter is released and an exposure is
made.

The LED's are located at the bottom of the
finder in order not to interfere with the field

The red lamp illuminates when

• the shutter is not cocked

• the light shield curtain is closed

• the film is not loaded.

• the lens is not attached.

• the battery power is weakening : The lamp blinks

.

AE photography

AEL photography

Manual mode

Long time exposure

1 sec to 4 sec at the

Under-exposure

Over-exposure

Battery drain increases in the AE mode

sufficient.

drops.

badly weakening.

Red warning lamp

17

A and AEL modes.
2 sec and 4 sec at
the Manual mode.

Battery capacity is

Battery capacity

When the Battery is

Focusing the Lens

[Photographic area covered]

18

When the lens has been focused, the double
image superimposing rangefinder produces
two superimposed images with in the square
of the viewfinder.

How To:

1. Position the subject within the central

square of the viewfinder. As on the top left
the subject will appear as a double images.

2. Rotate the focusing ring until the two
images converge and are superimposed as
on the figure on the left. The lens is now
focused.

The two images can also be superimposed
by using the lateral boundary line between
the viewfinder and the center rectangle zone
or split image.
Adjust the images until the boundary lines
converge.

Within the viewfinder the subject area covered
is indicated by the visible bright frame.
Parallax is automatically compensated for
according to the subject-to-lens distance.
The composition will be within in the lines of
the bright frame “A” for 6 x 7 format and “B” for
135 panoramic format. 83% of the field of view
is visible at infinity and 100% is visible at the
minimum focusing distance. The appropriate
bright frame area is automatically indexed
upon lens interchange.

Taking Photographs

viewfinder.

[Unloading the film]

immediately.

•

19

Do not advance the film too quickly,

as this might adversely affect film
flatness, or frame spacing.

1. Press the shutter release button when
you have focused and determined
composition.

2. Advance the film by winding the film
advance lever until it stops. (The shutter is
then cocked.)

3. After completing the last exposure, wind
the advance lever several times, until the
film with its backing paper is completely
wound onto the take-up spool. The
advance lever will become easier to
actuate when the film has been
completely wound on the spool.

* When the shutter release button is
pressed and the film is exposed, a red
LED will light on the lower left side of the

When unloading film, avoid direct
sunlight.

1. Open the back cover.

See page 12.
When the back cover is opened, the
exposure counter will automatically return
to "S" (Start).

2. Push the spool stud releases lever to
the right in order to disengage the spool
from the stud.

3. Simply push the upper rim of the spool
with your index finger as shown to lift up
the other end of the spool.

4. Then the roll of film can be easily
removed from the take-up chamber.

5. Be careful not to let the roll of exposed
film unwind. Be sure to seal it

* To prepare for another roll, remove
the empty spool from the film chamber,
and place it in the take-up chamber.

* Wind the advance lever until it stops.
(Otherwise, a red warning Lamp in the
viewfinder will signal that it is
impossible to press the shutter release
button.)

* To remove the film before exposing
the entire roll, cap the lens and press
the shutter release button and wind the
film onto the take-up spool frame by
frame.

AE (Automatic Exposure) Photography

The aperture priority metering device is

in the viewfinder.

20

AE Lock(AEL)Photography

incorporated into the rangefinder
system. The correct shutter speed for
the preselected aperture will
automatically be determined.

1. Align "A" on the shutter speed dial
with the white line index mark on the
camera body.

2. Be sure to set the exposure
compensation scale to 0. (See page23)

3. Set the aperture to the desired 'f'
number according to conditions.

4. When the shutter release button is
slightly touched, an LED indicating
proper exposure will automatically light

* When "▲" LED blinks, it indicates

over-exposure. Rotate the aperture ring
to stop down to a smaller f/stop until an
LED indicates proper exposure.
* Blinking "LT" indicates underexposure:
rotate the aperture ring until the LED
stops blinking to increase exposure.
* Illuminating "LT" indicates that the
shutter is set for a relatively long

exposure from between 1 to 4 seconds.
When taking pictures at such slow speeds
you must be able to hold the camera very
steady, or increase aperture to obtain
higher shutter speeds, or best of all, use a
sturdy tripod.

• Under AE (automatic exposure) or AEL
(AE lock), the LED display in the
viewfinder will continue to operate as
long as the shutter release button is
touched slightly. When you take your
finger off the button, the LEDs will go
out.

* If you cannot get close enough to your
subject for another meter reading, make
substitute measurements by pointing the
camera to light and dark areas and
calculate a mean exposure value or try
taking a reading off your palm.

The AEL position is very useful when
making selective exposure measure­ments of important subject areas which
are not in the center of the finder image
when faced with difficult lighting
conditions.

1. Rotate the shutter speed dial until
"AEL" aligns with the white index mark on
the camera body.

2. Position the important part of your
subject in the central square of the
viewfinder - this will establish the correct
exposure. Then touch the shutter release
button slightly and an LED will light
indicating the correct exposure.

3. In above state, the exposure reading
will be memorized. After adjusting for
composition as desired, release the
shutter.

Manual Photography

Self-Timer

be canceled.

21

You may override the AE mode and select
the aperture and shutter speed manually.
Simply set the shutter speed against the
white line index mark and also set the lens
aperture to the desired "f" stop.

1. When the shutter release button is
touched gently, the selected shutter speed
LED only will be continuously illuminated
or another LED may also flash.

2. When the pre-selected shutter speed
LED only illuminates, it indicates the
shutter speed for correct exposure.

3. When the pre-selected shutter LED
illuminates and one other LED blinks, the
blinking LED indicates the shutter speed
for correct exposure.

4. Turn the shutter speed dial and/or
aperture ring to align the two LEDs until
merged. The single LED indicates correct
shutter speed.

* When on manual, 10 seconds after
activation, the LED indicators will go out,
to save battery power. If they do so during
metering, press the Shutter Release
Button half way again.

Please note:
The LED indicators will disappear 10
seconds after you remove your finger from
the shutter release button in the following
situations:

1) When the film advance lever is not
advanced.

2) When the light shield curtain is closed.

1. The shutter is released about 10
seconds after pressing the self-timer
button. The LED on the front of the
camera illuminates for about 8 seconds,
then blinks for about 2 seconds, and then
the shutter is released.

2. The self-timer mode cancels itself
automatically.

* When using the self-timer the camera
must rest on a steady support. When the
shutter is set to “B” (bulb), the self-timer
does not operate.
* To override the self-timer, after having
pressed the release, press the self-timer
button again. Then the self-timer lamp will
go out and then the self-timer mode will

Depth-of-Field

field tables.

Diopter Correction Lenses

-: Near-Sighted

22

The depth-of-field varies according to
the aperture. The smaller the aperture
(f/8, f/11, f/16...) the greater the depth­of-field; the larger the aperture (f/8, f/

5.6,...) the smaller the depth-of-field. To
take pictures which are sharp from
foreground to infinity or when taking
snap shots, the focusing range is
extended or depth increased by using a
smaller aperture. When the subject is to
stand out, with the background out of
focus, a larger aperture is appropriate.

The depth-of-field scale on the lens
indicates depth-of-field in terms of the
distance between subjects on both
sides of the scale. For example, when a
80mm lens is stopped down to f/8 and
f/22, respectively, all objects located
within the ranges shown in the
illustrations above will be sharp.

* Refer to the instructions attached to
individual lenses for specific
depth-of-

Six types of diopter correcting lenses
are available for near/far-sighted
people. Mount as indicated above.
Powers available are: +3, +2, +1, -1, -2
and -3.

+: Far-Sighted

Exposure Compensation

The exposure compensator functions in a

Time Exposures

23

number of important ways. It can be used
to correct exposure values (EVs) or the
differences in brightness between a
primary subject and its background

-especially when over or under-exposures
occur. It can also be used when filters are
employed or when engaged in available
light photography - or under high contrast
conditions (i.e. low or high key).

To set, press the compensator lock release
button “A”
the desired EV: graduations are 1 /3 EV.

[When a filter is used]

Whether using the AE or manual mode
simply compensate for the filter exposure
factor as indicated in the table below.
* After using exposure compensation, be
sure to reset to “0”.

, and move lever “B” to select

When taking an exposure longer than 4
seconds, set shutter to “B” (bulb). At “B"
the shutter will remain open as long as the
release is pressed down. In order to
prevent camera movement, it is best to
use a cable release and tripod.
When set at “B” the self-timer does not
work.
The cable release can be screwed in the
release socket beside the shutter release
button as pictured above.

Flash Photography

The Mamiya 7 features an X synchro

camera.

24

receive an electric shock.

distance gives the correct aperture.

*

exposure may occur.

Infrared Photography

read the instructions with the film.

flash terminal and its lens shutter system
permits flash synchronization at all
shutter speeds.
Shoe-mounted flash units can be
attached directly to the hot-shoe, while
flash brackets can be attached to the
tripod socket for larger flash guns.
Remove safety cover to attach sync cord
to PC terminal on front left bottom of

[Determining the aperture]

When using automatic flash units, refer to
the instructions on the flash unit for
correct aperture settings.
When using a manual electronic flash,
the guide number divided by subject

Charged electronic flash units
sometimes fire when they are attached to
the camera. This does not indicate a
defective circuit.
*When using electronic flash, be sure to
read its manual carefully.

*Be careful, if electronic flash is used at
the "A" (Auto exposure) mode, over-

CAUTION:

When an electronic flash is connected

to the hot-shoe, current moves through

the X contact. So, be sure to put the

safety cover supplied with the camera

on the X contact so that you will not

When using infrared film, it is necessary
to make a focusing adjustment in order to
achieve accurate focus. This is because
the focus position of the image deviates
from normal since the infrared ray
wavelength is longer. After focusing in the
usual manner, check the distance on the
distance scale that is aligned with the
center reference mark of the lens. Make
the focusing adjustment by turning the
focusing ring in the direction of the arrow
in the accompanying photograph so that
the distance just observed is aligned with
the infrared mark.

When using infrared film, be sure to

How to Hold the Camera

with a cable release.

optional tripod adapter N.

the camera.

[Neck strap]

rangefinder window.

25

Because most out of focus pictures are
the result of camera movement, make
sure not to move when pressing the
shutter button. Hold the camera with
your elbows close to your body:
pressing part of the camera on your
forehead will help stabilize it. Then
gently release the shutter.
When making exposures longer than 1/
30 sec., it is advisable to use a tripod

[Using a tripod]

When using the camera with a large
tripod head, the head may interfere with
the spool stud, preventing film from
being loaded. To prevent this, use the

*The threaded tripod screw hole is

5.5mm deep and the use of a longer
tripod screw might result in damaging
the camera. So be careful not to apply
unnecessary pressure when mounting

Pass the neck strap through the carrying
strap lugs, and fasten it as shown.

TIP:

Be sure to focus the lenses by spanning
the lower part of the focusing collar with
your fingers, in order not to block the

Trouble shooting

26

Uniquely designed to prevent errors, the Mamiya 7
incorporates numerous safety features.
If the shutter will not function, it is very likely due to user
error rather than camera malfunction. Should there be
problems, be sure to review the following points.

• When the shutter will not function.

① Is the battery good?
② Is the power on/off lever set to the ON position?
③ Has the film been completely advanced to the

next frame?
Have all the exposures already been made (10
with 120, 20 with 220)?

④ Has the film advance lever been moved until it

stops?

⑤ Is the light shield curtain closed?

(In the case of examples
Lamp will flash a warning on the lower left hand
corner of the viewfinder.

• When the lens cannot be removed:
Is the light shield curtain open?

③ - ⑤ the red warning

Lenses

N43mm f/4.5L

Weight: 390g

N65mm f/4L

Weight: 380g

N80mm f/4L

Weight: 290g

N150mm f/4.5L

Weight: 520g

27

Lens construction: 10 elements in
6 groups
Angle of view: 92°
Minimum aperture: 22
35mm equivalent: 21 mm
Minimum focusing distance: 1m
Magnification
at minimum distance : 0.049
Area covered: 1145 x 1421 mm
Filter size: 67mm
Hood: Bayonet type
Dimensions: 42(L) x 72(D)mm

Lens construction: 9 elements in
5 groups
Angle of view: 69°
Minimum aperture: 22
35mm equivalent: 32mm
Minimum focusing distance: 1m
Magnification
at minimum distance : 0.078
Area covered: 719 x 892mm
Filter size: 58mm
Hood: Bayonet type
Dimensions: 65(L) x 67(D)mm

Lens construction: 6 elements in
4 groups
Angle of view: 58°
Minimum aperture: 22
35mm equivalent: 39mm
Minimum focusing distance: 1 m
Magnification
at minimum distance : 0.097
Area covered: 580 x 719 mm
Filter size: 58mm
Hood: Bayonet type
Dimensions: 56(L) x 67 (D) mm

Lens construction: 6 elements in 5
groups
Angle of view: 34°
Minimum aperture: 32
35mm equivalent: 71 mm
Minimum focusing distance: 1.8m
Magnification
at minimum distance : 0.096
Area covered: 581 x 721 mm
Filter size: 67mm
Hood: Bayonet type
Dimensions: 96(L) x 70(D)mm

Accessories

28

Lens hood

For 43mm f/4.5 : Bayonet type
For 65mm f/4 : Bayonet type
For 80mm f/4 : Bayonet type
For 150mm f/4.5: Bayonet type
All are supplied with the lenses.

Diopter correcting Lenses

Focusing accuracy diminishes when the
eye diopter is incorrect. So, it is
advisable that near and far sighted
people use diopter correcting lenses. Fit
the proper diopter correcting lens to the
eyepiece.
6 types are available: +3, +2, +1, -1,

-2, -3.

Tripod adapter N

This is used to mount the camera to
tripod head.
Even when the tripod has a large head,
the adapter allows film to be loaded,
while the camera is attached to the
tripod.

Panoramic Adapter Kit AD701

When using the Panoramic Adapter, a
wide panoramic photograph can be taken
by using 35mm film. The 135 panoramic
Adapter Kit is composed of the following:

①135 Panoramic Mask
② Take-up Spool
③ Cassette Holder
④ Rewind Crank Unit

(Unit Weight : 110g)

• 135 Panoramic Picture Area and the
Number of Exposures.
Picture area : 24mm x 65mm

Number of exposures:

135 Film 36EXP..............................16

135 Film 24EXP .............................10

The picture area (24 x 65mm) provided
by the Mamiya 7 panoramic format is

3.3 x larger the 35mm panoramic for
mat (13 x 36mm).

Note: A panoramic paper slide mount, 24
x 65mm, is also available.

Lens case Type A

The lens case is made of special
material which is very soft but tough
and fits 65mm, 80mm and 150mm
lenses.
Dimension: bottom diameter is 90mm
and it is 160mm in length.

External Battery Case PE702

Cold temperatures can affect battery
power. Permits camera battery to be
worn conveniently inside clothing and
connected to battery chamber by wire.

Viewfinder FV701 for 43mm f/4.5
lens

See lens instructions booklet.

System chart

29

Specifications

3. Shutter release button lock lever

Specifications and features are subject to change without notice.

30

Type of Camera : 6 x 7cm format interchangeable lenses, rangefinder camera, double formats (6 x 7 and 35mm
panorama)
Film Used : 120 Roll Film (10 exposures) , 220 Roll Film (20 exposures), 135 Roll Film (16 exposures with 36
exp. film)

Actual Image Size : 56 x 69.5mm with 120/220 film, 24 x 65mm with 135 film, using Panoramic Adapter Kit
Film winding : A single 185° stroke
Lens Mount : Exclusive Bayonet Mount
Lenses Ultra wide angle : 43mm f/4.5 L with Optical Viewfinder

Wide angle : 65mm f/4 L
Standard : 80mm f/4 L
Telephoto : 150mm f/4.5 L

Shutter : #00 electronic leaf shutter , B, 4-1/500sec. ,electro-magnetic shutter release, X-contact synchronizing
at all shutter speeds with hot-shoe and PC Terminal ; Electronic Self Timer
(10 sec. delayed, automatic turn-off )
Exposure Control : Aperture priority AE , SPD receptor in viewfinder metering range : EV3- EV18 ( with 80mm f/4 lens,
ISO 100 ), Exposure compensation : +2 - -2EV ( in 1/3EV steps ) Film speed range : ISO 25

- 1600

Rangefinder : Lens declination, double image super imposing system : base length 60mm (effective base length 34.2mm)
Viewfinder : Coupled with rangefinder : automatic bright line frame indexing (65, 80 and 150mm) : parallax

compensation : Magnification ratio : 0.57X : 83% of the field of view visible at infinity : built - in
shutter speed and exposure display, safety interlock warning L.E.D.

Internal "Dark Slide" curtain : To permit changing lenses with loaded camera
Safety Mechanism : 1. Double exposure prevention 2. Shutter release is locked when internal dark slide curtain is engaged.

Power Supply : one 6V (4SR44, 4LR44 or 2CR1/3 lithium) battery
Dimensions : Camera body : 159(L) x 112(H) x 66(D)mm

Body with 80mm lens : 159(L) x 112(H) x 120(D)mm
Weight : Camera body : 920g
Body with 80mm lens : 1,210g

•

Common Sense Camera Care and Practice

31

The Mamiya 7 is a precision optical/mechanical
instrument, built for heavy professional use and a
long service life, if properly treated and maintained.
Please observe these basic caveats:

• Read instructions before using camera.

• Protect camera against shocks and falls. Use
neckstrap supplied with it, whenever possible.

• Check the battery frequently and always carry
spares. The sealed battery supplied with the
camera may have been subject to storage
conditions which have reduced its service life.

• Be sure to wipe battery contacts before installation

and watch correct polarity.

• Battery life differs, depending on frequency of use,
type, age, storage condition, ambient temperature
(use External Battery Case in very cold weather),
etc.

• Always remove the battery (and film) when camera
is not used for a period of time.

• Always keep covers on lenses and camera body.

• Do not store the camera at temperatures exceeding 40°C
(105° F) and -10°C (15°F). Also avoid humid or sea air
environment.

• Prolonged disuse shortens camera life. Periodically exercise
the shutter (at different speeds, lens diaphragms and
focusing mounts.

• Protect camera against rain and moisture.

• Do not touch lens surfaces. Use blower or lens tissue to
remove dust particles.

Specific Suggestions:

• Operate the film advance lever with easy strokes. If moved

too rapidly it may affect spacing.

• Hold lens focusing mounts on bottom in order not to block

range finder window.

• Always test your equipment before going on important

assignments.

Common Sense Camera Care and Practice

32

short circuit and become useless.

The Importance of Proper Maintenance

Your camera has mechanisms like film transport,
shutter and diaphragm blades, rangefinder couplings,
etc. They are controlled by gears, levers, springs, and
so on. All require special lubrication from time to time.
Ambient conditions can also affect these mechanisms,
as well as the electronic components and the optical
glass of your lenses. "We therefore suggest that you
have your camera and lenses checked, and if
necessary serviced, periodically".

Batteries Care:

1. The sealed, new battery which is supplied with

this camera may have been subject to storage
conditions which have reduced its service life.
Therefore it is desirable to replace it with a fresh
battery as soon as possible.

2. Carefully wipe the battery contacts before
inserting into the chamber. Failure to do so may
result in poor electrical contact and consequent
malfunctioning of the camera.

3. Always remove battery when camera is not
used for a while. Always carry spare batteries.

4. Battery life differs, depending on type, age,
storage condition, ambient temperature,
frequency of use etc.

5. Be sure to match the poles of the battery with
those shown in the diagram in the chamber.

6. Always keep batteries out of the reach of

children and never throw used batteries into a
fire or expose to excessive heat.

7. When going on trips be sure to carry spare
batteries to ensure that the camera will
function. Also, as batteries tend to temporarily
malfunction at temperatures below freezing,
when photographing in extremely cold
climates, carry the External Battery Case.

8. When you carry spare batteries, leave them in

the original factory packaging. If they are
"unpackaged", be sure to wrap them carefully
in order to prevent them touching each other or
any metal objects which can cause them to

Prevention of Light Leaks Due To Loose Film

camera. Then close the camera back.

DO NOT use the dotted line for a start mark.

33

Wending

• Thread the paper leader on the empty take up spool

so the film will be wound evenly and parallel. This
will prevent the film from winding loosely or over the
edge of the spool, which can cause light leaks and
film fogging.

• Use your left thumb to press lightly on the paper

leader while advancing winding lever slowly to
assure smooth and tight film take-up on the empty
spool. Advance the film and align the printed arrow
start mark with the small triangle start mark on the

Handling of Exposed Film

• DO NOT remove exposed film from the camera
under direct sunlight. Find a shaded area or turn
your back to the sun and shade the camera before
you open it.

• When removing the exposed film, be careful to
prevent it from unraveling on the spool. Gently
tighten the paper trailer, moisten the attached seal,
and secure the film to prevent light leaks.

• Immediately place exposed film in your camera
case or a bag, away from sunlight.

Setting Start Mark with 220 Roll Film

To assure even frame spacing, and prevent
overlapping, be sure to wind the film up to the printed
arrow start mark, which appears after the dotted line.