FLAAR testing Leaf digital camera backs, S-Series Leaf Aptus 54S

FLAAR has tested Leaf Valeo medium format digital camera backs in the past

Prior to Leaf being bought by Kodak (when Kodak bought Creo), we were in the middle of evaluating a Leaf Valeo 22.

But then the Leaf Valeo 22 had to be returned and from then on we had Phase One digital backs. So during 2006 FLAAR tested primarily

Then I was invited to Israel in May 2007, and while there visited where the CreoScitex scanners were made and where the Leaf camera backs are manufactured.

Originally I had hoped to pick up a new Leaf Aptus 54S and begin testing it, for architectural photography, art and architectural history photography, museum photography, as well as digitizing paintings for giclee and décor.

But it never arrived; but a Phase One P 25+ did arrive, so that’s the camera I am now testing for architectural photography and fine art photography.

Most recently updated Dec. 10, 2007.
First posted August 1, 2007.

Available by october 2008

Available by octuber 2008

Available by october 2008

Nicholas Hellmuth’s Medium Format Digital Camera Initiative

For over 40 years Nicholas Hellmuth has used Rolleiflex and Hasselblad cameras to record the flora, fauna, and archaeology of Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico. Now for several years he is extending his medium format experience to digital photography.

Since FLAAR works both in a studio as well as out on location, we are an ideal focus for judging portability. We have experience with large format digital scan backs (the excellent BetterLight) and we also use Nikon and Canon digital cameras. A full-service digital pro should have at least one medium format digital system and should consider large format digital options as well.

Although we started with a Leaf Valeo 22 coupled with a Mamiya 645 AFD body and lenses, we are open to showcasing all bodies as well as other digital backs. Indeed we have tested an Imacon 4-shot back on a Hasselblad H1 body. Then (February 2006 onwards) we are evaluated a MegaVision black-and-white dedicated back for fine art photography. Next we are testing a 33-megapixel Phase One P 30. Since 2008 FLAAR has used a Phase One P25+ (a great way to update an aging Hasselblad ELX body with its excellent Zeiss lenses).

Camera resellers or manufacturers who wish to have their cameras, lenses, and backs included in this initiative are welcome to send their equipment for evaluation.

FLAAR is the de facto source of information because we have been university based, independent, blunt, and we are one of the few review sources that dares to review advertising specs, advertising claims, and advertising hype. We can afford to reveal all the pros and cons because FLAAR is a research institute. Photographers feel they can trust a university research professor who has devoted years to understanding the pros and cons of each aspect of a digital camera system and workflow.

Notice you are not blinded by blinking, flashing, or pesty ads for low-bid camera stores on a FLAAR photography review. I am always amused by a pseudo-review that obviously is simply paid to send you to a camera store.

You can download our colorful FLAAR Reports on our medium format digital camera initiative.