The Mamiya C33 is a TLR (Twin Lens Reflex two-lens reflex) camera for medium format film. It was built by the Japanese company in the 1960s and was aimed at professional users.
The special feature of the C33 is the possibility of interchangeable lenses, this is untypical for TLRs. Only lenses for the Mamiya C-series can be mounted, they are focused manually. Another special feature is the bellows between camera and lens, this allows it to go extremely close to the subject.
Films for the Mamiya C33
Medium format films are needed to take pictures with the Mamiya C33. Although the film format is very old, fresh films are still being produced. One option for color images is the Kodak Portra 160* and the Ilford XP2 Super* for black and white photos. The images are square (6×6).
A light meter is not built into the Mamiya C33, it does not require batteries. A tripod, cable release and flash connection is available. Multi-exposures are possible with the medium format camera, for which the selector on the camera side must be set from Roll Film to Sheet or Multi-exp.
The Mamiya C33 weighs over 2 kilos.
Sample photos
Technical datasheet
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of Camera | Twin-lens reflex camera |
| Film format | 120 |
| Film transport | Manual |
| Picture format | 60 mm x 60 mm |
| Focus | Manual |
| Viewfinder | Waist-level finder |
| Exposure times | 1/500 second to 1 second, Bulb |
| Bulb mode | Yes |
| Date imprinting | No |
| Double and/or multiple exposure function | Yes |
| Built-in flash | No |
| Flash Connection | PC-Flash |
| Tripod mount | Yes |
| Cable release thread | Yes |
| Power supply | Not necessary |
| Country of production | Japan |
| Estimated value / Used price | 326,48 Euro Estimate based on used prices of 78 offers (possibly with different scope of delivery and/or condition). As of June 15, 2026 |
| Average used price in the year 2023 | 282,58 Euro (305.24 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2024 | 264,77 Euro (285.75 US-Dollar) |
| Average used price in the year 2025 | 339,21 Euro (366.93 US-Dollar) |
FAQ about the Mamiya C33
What kind of film does this camera use?
It uses 120 film, which is a medium format film. This results in square 6x6 cm images. While it's an older format, new film is still available.
Is it hard to focus the lens?
Focusing is manual. You adjust the lens yourself, but the bellows allows for extremely close-up shots. It might take some practice to master.
Does the camera have a built-in light meter?
No, the Mamiya C33 doesn't have a built-in light meter. You'll need to use an external light meter to determine the correct exposure settings.
Can I take multiple exposures on one frame?
Yes, multiple exposures are possible. You need to switch a selector on the side of the camera to 'Sheet or Multi-exp' mode.
What are the special features of this old camera?
A unique feature is the interchangeable lenses, unusual for this type of camera (TLR). It also has a bellows for close-up photography, and connections for a tripod, cable release, and flash.