What is this thing you call MF3D? – MF3d is the creation of stereoscopic images using medium format size film. This folio is for medium format positive transparencies (slides, chromes; typically: square format 6cm, 2.25inch), specially mounted by hand in dual aperture slide mounts, and viewed through a stereoscope for this format.
The artist exposes the images using one or two cameras, and then gets the film processed. After processing, images are selected from the film, and carefully mounted to very high precision (ideally <0.2mm accuracy) in a dual window mount, that is sealed and sleeved for storage and viewing. Special stereoscopic mounting gauges and apparatus assist in the mounting process.
What cameras are used?
Any medium format camera can be used by itself for “cha-chas”. Common candidates for twin cameras are Mamiya and Fuji 645s, and Rollei and Bonica SLRs. Dedicated stereo cameras are:
- Rolleiscop
- Heidoscop
- Sputnik
- TL120-1
Many MF3D creators build their own cameras or heavily customize their equipment. One fantastic way of dipping your toes into creating a custom MF3D camera without much tinkering is the Mercury Stereo System. This is a modular system which allows you to mount many different lenses and film backs to create a camera that meets your requirements.
What film is used?
Any 120 slide film can be used. As of 2025, Fuji produces Velvia RVP 50 and Provia 100 RDP III. Outside the US, Velvia RVP 100 may also be available. In my experience, in the last few years, Fuji slide film in 120 has frequently out of stock at most dealers in the US and Canada. Kodak Ektachrome E100 has been available in 120 format in 2020 when Kodak re-introduced this film.
One exciting new development in the MF3D space is M-Alchemy, the lab service operated by Zach Horton of Mercury Works. Mercury Works has a wide range of options for shooting 65 and 70 mm film with the Mercury Stereo 12 camera. You can shoot ECN negative motion picture film, which has numerous benefits: wide exposure latitude, improved colour correction, several film stocks to choose from, including high ISO and tungsten-balanced. Perhaps the greatest advantage is that the camera negative can be printed onto ECP film to produce positive slides, and many multiple copies of high-quality slides can be printed without acquiring a “dupe-y” image degradation. Film can be purchased from the Mercury Works store.
Most B&W silver films can be reversal-processed as slides.
Where do you get the film processed?
If you have B&W film, turn the lights off in your darkroom and get to work. If you have E6 film, look for a local processor! If yours has closed up shop, considert M-Alchemy. For the ECN/ECP aka M-Chrome process for 65 / 70 mm film, use M-Alchemy.
Can you get prints made?
Sure you can. But why would you want to? The magic of MF3D is the big, beautiful piece of film in a well-designed hand-viewer. Even the best prints just can’t compare.
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