Ian B Foto is a niche UK specialist focused exclusively on Mamiya, Bronica, and Fuji GX680 medium format film cameras, lenses, and accessories. Run by Ian Bailey as a single-proprietor operation, the business carries an unusually deep inventory in these specific systems, over 500 live listings at the time of writing, with 50+ Bronica items, substantial Mamiya 645/RB67/RZ67/Press/7/7II stock, and one of the largest Fuji GX680 selections anywhere (50+ items).
The site also hosts free downloadable documentation for these systems, instruction manuals, parts lists, and reference material, making Ian B Foto a useful resource for medium format film photographers regardless of whether they're buying. Updates are typically monthly (1st of the month), with discount sections highlighting bargains. Payment options include PayPal and UK bank transfer (with a 4% discount on the latter).
For UK photographers shooting Mamiya, Bronica, or Fuji GX680 medium format film, Ian B Foto is the most focused dedicated source in the country. The single-proprietor operation means inventory turnover and listing patterns are different from larger dealers, but for buyers who know what they want and are patient, prices and selection are competitive. Ian also operates an eBay storefront under "5711ianb" for additional listings.
Ian B Foto occupies a hyper-specialist niche, there's no direct UK equivalent for the depth of Mamiya/Bronica/Fuji GX680 inventory in one place. Closest comparators would be Ffordes (broader medium format depth across more brands), Aperture (Leica/medium format focus), and the various film/vintage specialists like Camera House or Real Camera Company.
Compared to MPB or Camera Jungle, Ian B Foto operates differently: a single-proprietor specialist focused on a tight set of medium format film systems rather than a high-volume general dealer. Compared to Ffordes' Mamiya/Bronica selection, Ian B Foto is narrower but goes deeper within the chosen systems, particularly on the harder-to-find Fuji GX680.
For UK medium format film shooters specifically working in these systems, Ian B Foto is a key destination, particularly for parts, accessories, and less-common items that broader dealers don't stock. The free documentation downloads add value beyond the retail offering. Note that as a single-proprietor operation, response times and listing updates work to a different rhythm than larger operations.