Re: 4x5 camera suggestions

[George L Smyth <GLSmyth@xxxxxxx>]

Matt Henley wrote:
> 
> I noticed the recent thread about viability of different 4x5 cameras
> for use with Kodak Infrared film.  The question that comes to my mind
> is:
> For someone who does not own one, what 4x5 camera would you suggest for
> someone looking to use it specifically for infrared photography?  What
> camera has the most 'bang for the buck'... for this service?

Look at it this way.  What is the purpose of a view camera?  It holds
the lens at one end and the film holder at the other.  That's the most
important thing.  Some cameras offer the ability to move the lens and
film planes so that you can do different things.  The most important is
the ability to make the lower part of your picture at a closer focal
length than the upper part so that you can get a greater depth of field
with the majority of your needs.  All these things are available in a
Speed Graphic that may be 40+ years old and can be found for under
$300.  It's amazing how good an image can be had from even a cheap
lens.  Spend more money and you can get a better quality lens.

If you have a fair amount of money and a real need to the additional
tilts and swings, you can pay up to and over $3,000 for a 4X5, where
you'll also get nice wood, shiny knobs, etc.  If I had the money I would
certinly go for one, but not being the wealthiest guy alive, I've found
that the Crown Graphic I purchased for $300 (which included two lenses,
a 6X7 back, and a handful of other goodies) has been able to fill 98% of
my needs.\

So, bang for the buck, I'd say to check Shutterbug and the local swap
meets for an ancient 4X5 that nobody wants.  Everything changes (mostly
for the better) when you have the chance to get larger.

Just my 2 cents.

george

-- 
 Handmade Photographic Images     
  http://www2.ari.net/glsmyth/

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End of INFRARED-PHOTOGRAPHY Digest 207
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