What a learning curve!
To begin, I cannot afford one of the new IQ backs. Pity, but I need to be realistic here.
So, we are talking one of the older backs, and if I am going to make the jump to MF, I want to be able to shoot tethered, and check focus etc. on a big screen. My new quad-core MacBook Pro will be perfect for this.
This means one of the P+ series, right? I have read the Wikipedia entry on these backs, too.
So far in all my work so far (and talking architecture here) I have not needed more than 10" exposure time—but that is Nikon/Sony sensors, and lenses that usually I do not stop down more than ƒ8-11. I know that I will need longer exposure times if I am using a MF back and MF lenses, but let's say no longer than 30".
I am inclining to putting the major spending into the back itself. The way I am thinking now is that I can fit that back to the Phase DF body. Jack's lens suggestions make perfect sense.
So, let me get this straight: the P40+ is a newer, 1.25 crop factor, up to ISO 800, and the P45+ is a older sensor with a 1.15 crop factor, and good long exposure times but limited to ISO 200. If I were to get the P40+, and fit it to a DF body with the 28 lens Jack mentioned, what are the stitching options when interior wide angles are necessary? If I have this right, that 28 will behave like a 35, and I definitely need wider than that, regularly? Or would I need a tech cam body for that work?
And the old P25+ is a better crop factor than the P40+, if I have read the descriptions properly, and I assume people will be practically giving those away because they are only 25MP! Realistically, 25MP is sufficient for all of the paid work I do.
And in my net travels, I came across a Leaf AFi7 review. Any perspectives here on that body? Or is the Phase DF body a big improvement on that one, handling-wise?
Last points: I will definitely call you, Guy and Don, and we can arrange that later (mid-September is the first Arizona gig). I will read up on the Cambo bodies, too. I think getting the most flexible back first will be the best way to go. I will definitely need the option of ISO 800 for most of the work I do, so I think that means no to the P45+. And to Guy: I have been a monopod user forever (RRS clamp, L-bracket, and same setup on the heavy tripod). Thanks to all, and keep the suggestions coming! Cheers, KL