Film photography fans have a new medium format option to watch: the VZ-6617 from Exposing Engineering, a stripped-back camera built around a fully manual, electronics-free shooting experience. Designed for photographers who enjoy a hands-on approach, the VZ-6617 keeps things simple while still offering the flexibility to capture images in multiple formats, from square compositions to wider rectangular frames.
One of the most distinctive parts of the VZ-6617’s design is how it handles exposure. Instead of placing controls on the camera body, the aperture and shutter are housed in the lenses. That means settings such as f-stops and shutter speeds are adjusted on the lens itself, echoing a classic, old-school workflow that many analog shooters prefer.
Focusing also follows a traditional method. The VZ-6617 uses distance estimation rather than through-the-lens viewing or a built-in rangefinder system. Photographers judge the distance to their subject and set focus accordingly, which can be ideal for street photography, landscapes, and scenes where you’re working with deeper depth of field. However, this approach makes the camera less practical for shots that rely on precise focusing and a very shallow depth of field, such as close-up portraits with strong background blur.
In keeping with its minimalist concept, the camera includes no electronics at all, and it also skips an integrated viewfinder. For those who want a more guided framing experience, an optional cold shoe viewfinder is available, allowing photographers to mount a viewfinder externally for easier composition.
The VZ-6617 weighs 925 grams, giving it a solid feel without being excessively heavy for a medium format film camera. It’s built for people who want a tactile, mechanical shooting process and are comfortable slowing down to measure light, estimate focus, and compose carefully.
Prices and availability
Right now, the Exposing Engineering VZ-6617 is being funded on Kickstarter. The “Essentials Bundle” includes the camera, an optical viewfinder, and a lens cone matched to a focal length of your choice. That bundle is priced at $599, with additional costs for shipping, import sales tax, and customs duties depending on location. Delivery is currently expected to begin in August 2026.
This campaign is also Exposing Engineering’s first Kickstarter project. As with most crowdfunding launches, backers should keep in mind that timelines can shift and early production units may face delays or quality issues.
