A medium format autofocus telephoto lens for the Mamiya 645AF and Phase One systems. It was the longest lens in the 645 lineup at its release.
Overview
This is the Mamiya 300mm f/4.5 AF APO, a long telephoto for the 6x4.5cm frame. It was built for the Mamiya 645AF and Phase One camera systems. The optics are apochromatic, and the camera body drives the autofocus. When it was released, it was the longest lens in the Mamiya 645 lineup.
Specifications
| Focal length | 300mm |
| Maximum aperture | f/4.5 |
| Minimum aperture | f/32 |
| Apochromatic correction | yes |
| Autofocus | yes |
| Lens mount | Mamiya 645AF and Phase One |
| Filter size | 77mm |
| Angle of view | 14° |
| Maximum format | Medium format 6x4.5 |
Design
The apochromatic (APO) design keeps chromatic aberration down and gives high sharpness and clarity. The camera body motor drives the autofocus. Mamiya's safety guidance says not to touch the moving parts inside the lens barrel during operation.
Context
As the longest lens in the Mamiya 645 system at its release, the 300mm f/4.5 AF APO covered the telephoto end for medium format photographers who needed reach without giving up optical quality. It was not rebadged or offered under the Phase One brand at the time of its introduction. It stayed a Mamiya-designed optic for both compatible systems.
Reception
It is described as a high-quality medium format lens with exceptional clarity and sharpness, and it demands precise technique. Users note that sharp results need a stable tripod, a high-quality head and careful handling. A long focal length on medium format film or digital backs makes that harder.
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