>>3539381I was writing a long post anon, but fucking chrome crashed.
The general idea is that 120 SLRs have great viewfinders, due to the big mirrors and prisms, and miles better than the tunnel ones from folders from the '50s. Also it's much cheaper to get a 120 SLR with good viewfinder than a 120 rangefinder.
645 SLRs are smaller and cheaper but could lack features like interchangeable backs and leaf shutter lenses. 6x6 are a good compromise, 6x7 and beyond even better image quality but huge size tradeoff.
In 6x6 best value for money seem to be the bronicas (SQ-A), especially if you want modern features like metered/aperture priority prisms.
If money ain't tight and you want Zeiss/Schneider lenses, the most advanced and ergonomic ones are the Rollei 6008. The lenses (and bodies) used to be much more expensive than Hasselblad ones when introduced, due to the leaf shutters (and all the metering/winding options on the bodies), but now hasselblad prices are memed to oblivion, so they're about the same.
TLRs could be an option, but only the big Mamiya C-series offer interchangeable (and relatively modern) lenses, and those are the size of an SLR.
One last note is to check the prices of accessories (metered prisms, etc.) and secondary lenses (i.e. other than the standard 80mm) when comparing systems. Some systems have much pricier accessories and lenses, especially wideangles.
Lastly, the easiest cameras to use, with great lenses and ergonomics, are the autofocus 645 Fujis. GA645 for normal, and GA645W for the wideangle. The integrated flash also makes them usable indoors, like an oversized point and shoot.
So overall what I'd go for in terms of value for money is:
645: Bronica ETRS or Fuji GA645
6x6: Bronica SQ-A
6x9: Fuji GW690 or GSW690 (wideangle)
My suggestion would be to go for a system camera with leaf shutters so you can try different focal lengths and lighting techniques.
Also a metered prism makes a huge difference in practicality.
