Looking to get into 4x5.. Need help starting

[heespharm]

So I'm looking to get into 4x5 but don't want to spends thousands... At least not yet...

Ive been looking into speed graphics...is that worth my time?? I hear there aren't enough movements?? What should I look for??

[Flea77]

The first things you need to decide are:

1) What do you want to be able to do with 4x5?
2) What is your budget?

For example, if you want to do things that require tilt/shift (architecture, product shots) then a speed is not what you are looking for.

If you don't mind carring a small trunk with you then a monorail is an excellent starter because it allows maximum flexibility (in tilt/shift, lens mounting, etc) and can be had cheap.

A field camera is much more portable, more expensive, and although it has tilt and shift, it usually is fairly limited and then they can not mount some lenses without jumping through some hoops. Again though, you may never want/need to use those lenses and the tilt/shift of a field may be more than you ever need, it depends on what you want to do.

So we are back to those two questions. Answer those and we can be of more help.

Allan

[heespharm]

I guess landscapes not architecture... Just to play around... Looking at $400 ish but do not want to lug a monorail around... Probably field if I can

[KJ Smith]

Hey Ted,

I did this same thing about a year ago.

It's a lot more rewarding than I thought.

If you have prior experience with film it's not so tough.

First thing is to join LFPF.

They buy/sell forum is the best for LF gear. You have to be a member 30 days before you will be able to use it.

Recently there have been some great lenses for exceptionally low prices.

Assuming this is for field work.

I would look for a wood field camera. They are fairly inexpensive, light and versatile.

It will be easier to sell if things don't work out.

Mono rails are cheap because no one wants them.

I ended up buying a new camera. When you are trying to get started it's tough to know what to get.

There is a lot to chose from. I chose a Shen-Hao. Cheap and fairly well made.

Just post here when you see something and there are a few of us that can answer questions.

From memory, Myself (4x5), Flea77 (4x5), Venchka (4x5), WClavey (4x5), Valerie (8x10), Tropicpine (5x7), HenrySampson (8x10) and DrewBedo (not sure but I think 8x10) all use LF gear. Speak up if I missed you...

After the camera you will need a lens and lens board.
Normal for a 4x5 is 150mm.
Choosing a lens can be very tough because there are many levels in each line.

For example, I went with Rodenstock.

You can get the same focal length as a re branded Caltar, a "N" series and a "S" series. Then a wide Angle "N' series. And then they sell other cheaper lenses, Greanors, I think.

The above are listed in order of price, cheaper to most expensive.

The "n" lenses are fine, should be easily found ~$300.

My first was a Rodenstock 135mm Sironar-S. One of the best ever made.
I paid $650 great price at the time, saw one for $475 this week.

Anyway stick with the name brands that are MC (multi coated).

The lens board will need to fit your camera, and your lens.

If you select a camera that takes a Wista/Technika board you will be good.

The boards come drilled for specific shutters.

For example a lens with a Copal 0 shutter needs a board with a Copal 0 hole.

Then a few Holders. 6 would be a great start.

Try to get modern Fidelity or Lisco. ~$10.

A dark cloth. I used a towel at first.

A loupe is nice but not required.

Then film.

A dark place to load film.

I used to go in my closet at night, A towel at the bottom sealed it enough.

Here are some useful links.

Everything I said and more.
A large format photography home page

Good source for new. Talk to Jeff, I think.
Lee had a bad experience with them. Most people don't.
Badger Graphic Sales, Inc


Very knowledgeable Guy. Good source.
Currently selling a ton of his own lenses. I think he said 100 or so.
Future Classics

Feel free to ask any questions.

Next time we go out I will try o PM you if you want to come along.

[heespharm]

So crown graphics are no good??

[KJ Smith]

Originally Posted by heespharm

So crown graphics are no good??

Never used one. Don't know.

I think WClavey had or has one.

He will come around and answer.

[heespharm]

Well the auction just ended and I picked one up for 150... Even if it's not optimal that's a helluva price!!! And it's guaranteed to work or money back... Maybe I'll play with that until I'm ready to jump off the deep end

[KJ Smith]

Originally Posted by heespharm

Well the auction just ended and I picked one up for 150... Even if it's not optimal that's a helluva price!!! And it's guaranteed to work or money back... Maybe I'll play with that until I'm ready to jump off the deep end

I am sure that will get you started.

[heespharm]

Thanks for the help kj ... I saw a wista 45sp the other day and that's what got me thinking.... It's so sexy I'm thinking of selling my 5d for it!!!!


Ps is that purdue Pete as ur avatar???

[venchka]

You will have more questions. We will have many answers.
Personally, I find better stuff at better prices on forums like this one, Large Format, Rangefinder, APUG, etc. Buying from individuals who actually know and use what they are selling is great.
Did your Graphic (Crown or Speed) come with lens? Graflock back?
Graflex.Org: Speed Graphics, Large Format Photography, and More

Houston Camera Co-op has chemicals, film, holders, lenses, all the accessories you may need. The last time I was there they had a complete 8x10 camera & lens. when you decide that 4x5 is too small. Grinning.

[heespharm]

a Graphex optar f4.7 135mm Lens. Also 2 riteway film holders (holds 2-4x5 negitives), and 1 Grafmatic film holder holds 6- 4x5 film negitive holders, rotates film in the camera

[venchka]

The Grafmatic, if it works correctly, puts your deal in the not too bad category. Take good care of the Grafmatic. It works in any camera with a Graflok or International back in case you upgrade.
Here are the Grafmatic instructions:
Grafmatic Sheet Film Holder

Which body? Speed or Crown?

[heespharm]

crown graphic... that's better than speed graphic right?

[venchka]

Depends. The Speeds have a focal plane shutter which comes in handy sometimes. The Crowns are lighter. i assume your Crown has a working rangefinder? Graflex cameras really come into their own handheld.

[heespharm]

yeah it does but im only interested in using it as a view camera