freaklikeme
Member
I've got a couple of view camera lenses, the Rodenstock 45 and 150, that I want to use on 6x9 and 6x12 film backs. I prefer using bellows over purchasing lens-specific cones and helicoids and accessory tilt/swing adapters. For this solution, I only need a minimal amount of tilt, swing, and rise on the front standard. The ability to use my two existing lenses is critical. The ability to pick up a 210-240mm lens if I get the itch without having to purchase anything beyond a lens board is good. I am not invested in any particular lens board, but availability of lens boards, replacement bellows, and film backs is critical. The ability to adapt a digital back is not a concern. This lark is about film. 6x9 and 6x12 are required, 4x5 is a nice to have (and really only useful with the 150). Ground glass for focusing. The ability to change the perspective from landscape to portrait for 6x9 is critical. Budget tops out at $1500 for the camera, which will leave cash for film backs and lens boards.
So with those requirements in mind, I'm thinking the Toyo Field 45AII is the best bet. It has a drop bed for the 45 and can extend 300mm, which will more than cover me if I decide I want a longer lens than the 150. Recessed and standard boards are available. It's got a Graflock interface on the back, so film backs shouldn't be an issue. The back rotates without vignetting (according to the marketing) and the ground glass has frame marks for both 6x9 and 6x12. It's all metal, and the suitcase design should be rugged enough to drag along anywhere and it's light enough that I think I can get away with using my current tripod and just adding some found-counterweight (rocks) to its hammock. Used prices seem to run between $800 and $2000 depending on condition and location.
Good choice? Bad choice? Please feel free to post affirmations or tell me I'm crazy for not looking at a different camera. User experience with the Toyo will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
Brad
So with those requirements in mind, I'm thinking the Toyo Field 45AII is the best bet. It has a drop bed for the 45 and can extend 300mm, which will more than cover me if I decide I want a longer lens than the 150. Recessed and standard boards are available. It's got a Graflock interface on the back, so film backs shouldn't be an issue. The back rotates without vignetting (according to the marketing) and the ground glass has frame marks for both 6x9 and 6x12. It's all metal, and the suitcase design should be rugged enough to drag along anywhere and it's light enough that I think I can get away with using my current tripod and just adding some found-counterweight (rocks) to its hammock. Used prices seem to run between $800 and $2000 depending on condition and location.
Good choice? Bad choice? Please feel free to post affirmations or tell me I'm crazy for not looking at a different camera. User experience with the Toyo will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.
Brad