4x5" gear to get in the game

[Anthony Martinez]

So, I'd like to make the move into the large format world. Since my enlarger will handle 4x5" negatives, and I've got everything required to develop them, it makes sense to look at a 4x5" camera. It's been suggested that I look for one of the less expensive rail cameras as a means to learn what all the different movements do, and then maybe look into a field camera. What do you large format shooters think about such an approach?

I'm also unsure of which lenses to consider, especially given my lack of a money tree. Any suggestions there would be quite welcome.

Finally, I suppose it's time for Wayne, Westley, and Valerie to start with the "told ya so" lines ;)

[KJ Smith]

Rail cameras are cheap.... because no one wants them.

Start with a decent used field camera. Then if you need to sell it you will be able to.

If you are not a member of LFPF join. It is 30 days from the time you join until you are able to see/use the buy sell forum.

A good lens to start with is something in the 150mm range. That is the "normal" lens for a 4x5.

[KJ Smith]

Originally Posted by Anthony Martinez

Finally, I suppose it's time for Wayne, Westley,

Ask either one of them when was the last time they shot 4x5.

[Valerie]

Originally Posted by Anthony Martinez

So, I'd like to make the move into the large format world. Since my enlarger will handle 4x5" negatives, and I've got everything required to develop them, it makes sense to look at a 4x5" camera. It's been suggested that I look for one of the less expensive rail cameras as a means to learn what all the different movements do, and then maybe look into a field camera. What do you large format shooters think about such an approach?

I'm also unsure of which lenses to consider, especially given my lack of a money tree. Any suggestions there would be quite welcome.

Finally, I suppose it's time for Wayne, Westley, and Valerie to start with the "told ya so" lines ;)

Its a disease and there is no cure!

[KJ Smith]

Originally Posted by Valerie

Its a disease and there is no cure!

Death

[Daniel W.]

I have a monorail I'm not using, a Burke and James (similar to the Calumet CC400 but tooled a bit differently). It's definitely in rough shape but if you want to give it a try I'm sure I could spare a film holder if you hold onto it while I'm away at college for long term loan / temporary trade. (I ended up with a Crown Graphic). It has some sentimental value but it's great for just starting out.

[venchka]

While lenses in Copal shutteres are interchangeable on lensboards with the correct hole size, lensboards aren't always interchangeable among cameras. The Linhof Technika boards, and various copies by brands like Toyo, Wista, Shen Hao, seem to cover the greatest number of cameras.
Kevin: I used a 4x5 camera exclusively the last time several of us went to Glenwood. Late June-early July. It's in several threads here.

[KJ Smith]

Anthony,

This is copied from an older post I made.
The lens info may be helpful.....

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.

[wclavey]

Kevin: Last time I used the 4x5 camera (2-3 weeks ago) or used 4x5 film in the 4x5 camera (last fall)!

I think Kevin's post & re-post are good advice. I assembled my first 4x5 from a couple bags of used Crown & Speed Graphic parts (ebay finds) and an old ripped up Crown Graphic body and I used that for 2-3 years. Then I bought a used Shen Hao 4x5 that was fairly new which I like very much - - but I am using it with a 6x9 foll film back right now and would like to afford a 6x12 back someday soon...

[KJ Smith]

Originally Posted by wclavey

Kevin: Last time I used the 4x5 camera (2-3 weeks ago) or used 4x5 film in the 4x5 camera (last fall)!

My point is there are people giving the impression that they are die hard film, when in fact, they shoot digital more often.

[wclavey]

Originally Posted by KJ Smith

My point is there are people giving the impression that they are die hard film, when in fact, they shoot digital more often.

True, you are... I *AM NOT* die hard film... I shoot LF/MF 3-4 times a year and digital the reminder...

[Anthony Martinez]

Thanks for the input guys. PDE final tomorrow. Switching to math mode, overdrive, right now. Will ponder this weekend.

[jeffkohn]

Originally Posted by KJ Smith

My point is there are people giving the impression that they are die hard film, when in fact, they shoot digital more often.

How many 5D/coolpix exposures have you shot this year versus 4x5 or even 6x17?

[Valerie]

Originally Posted by KJ Smith

My point is there are people giving the impression that they are die hard film, when in fact, they shoot digital more often.

Speak for yourself, darlin'! me and that red beast still don't quite get along! Although I have to admit, it's been several weeks since the 8x10 has seen any action.

[venchka]

Originally Posted by Valerie

Speak for yourself, darlin'! me and that red beast still don't quite get along! Although I have to admit, it's been several weeks since the 8x10 has seen any action.

Speaking of the Red Beast.........

I have a Pentax 50mm/1.7 lens with a bayonet mount. Will it work on The Sweet Red Thing?

Between the punishment that masquerades as weather and my insane schedule, I haven't touched a camera, except to study Lisa's garage sale goodies, since the trip to Glenwood.