You might like to consider the MF Fuji rangefinder cameras, the so-called "Texas Leicas." They are larger and heavier than Leicas (hence the nickname), but they are very convenient to use, not as heavy nor as complex and expensive as MF SLRs, and their lenses are wonderful. There are 6 x 9, 6 x 8 (few of these outside Japan, alas) and 6 x 7cm versions.
Another choice is a twin-lens reflex camera. These give you 6 x 6 negatives (or slides, of course) and can be bought at quite reasonable prices. Here, the fun is being able to crop portrait and landscape views from the same negative. Sometimes, of course, the square format itself is ideal. Not often, though, in my experience.
Personally, I don't think you would find the move to 6 x 4.5 quite as rewarding as moving to one of the bigger formats mentioned above--although I know many will disagree with me. Visit www. fujirangefinder.com to see some of the work being done with these Fuji cameras.
One final word of warning. Be prepared to lug a tripod around with you. You are almost certain to find you need it.
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