[pure-silver] Re: OT Large Format Question

Justin,

I have 3 LF Cameras (4x5 Sinar Alpina, 5x7 Field Camera & an 8x10 
monorail) All three are used for landscapes and all three go out 
overnight. The 16x20 in my plans would be eligible for pretty much 
anything but trip to BC's Limestone Lake in Height of the Rockies Park.

Many focus on the weight of LF cameras, but in my experience it is 
misguided, for most people packing a camera bulk a more critical 
constraint. My Sinar & 8x10 do not collapse into nice compact boxes like 
the field camera. They are odd shaped and don't fit in, or on, any of my 
packs nicely. They are a pain to carry overnight. By the time I add film 
holders, tripod, etc., etc. to the field camera it is a lesser pain to 
carry.

Regarding lenses, think about what you shoot in another format. Matching 
with your LF is a good starting point. I like wide so I have a 75, 90, 
135, 180, 240 & 300. Overnight the 135 & 300 come on the trip. Within 
1/2 hour of the car everyone is eligible to come for the ride.

Renting a 4x5 on your trip is an excellent idea. When I thought LF might 
be for me I picked up a Calumet Cadet, an older lens & a couple of lens 
boards on ebay. A couple of hundred dollars 'invested'. Tried it out and 
loved LF. Concluded the older lens was inadequate & the cadet could only 
be called 'rigid' if I used a spot welder. Sold them for about what I 
paid, less shipping. About the same as renting.

Based on your site I suspect you are going to struggle with LF to take 
the same photographs. Action, movement, spontenaity & LF do not really 
go together.

Dave


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