[LargeFormat] Advice, please !

[Dave Hornford (Hornford Associates)]

Georges,
 A few points
- re-using filters is a function of lens size not brand. I use a mix of 
Fujinon, Nikon and Schneider lens - my filters are all the size of the 
largest diameter front element I think I'll buy with step-up rings for 
the rest. For example, my Fujinon 90 mm is has a front element diameter 
of 67 mm while my Nikon 300m has a front element diameter of 52 mm. Most 
of my lens I bought on eBay from Australia/Japan/US (I find that the 
non-US/non-European auctions go for a lower price and shipping is nearly 
identical to Canada)
- for lens have a look at  http://www.thalmann.com/largeformat/. Kerry 
has an extensive discussion of lens that are suitable for carrying into 
the field

- for Cameras if you do not have any LF experience it is hard to provide 
advice. For example you might prefer base-tilt or use allot of rear 
standard movements. Until you use a camera that has that feature, or one 
that doesn't, it is hard to know what you want. When I started with LF I 
bought a Calumet Cadet off eBay since it was the lowest price LF camera. 
It allowed me to try the format for a couple of hundred dollars. Once I 
had a bit of experience I changed cameras (now a Sinar) and sold the 
Calumet for close to what I bought it for. With the exception of lens 
boards everything else I kept for the new camera.

regards Dave

Georges Giralt wrote:

>Hi !
>I plan to make a move to LF very soon.
>I've choosen the format, it will be 4x5.
>As I shoot mainly landscape, it will be a field camera.
>As I'm short on money, I'll buy only one lens a 150mm.
>But, I can go for a Shen-Hao, a Toyo 45CF, or a second hand one.
>What camera would be better for my money (around 650~700 USD) ?
>Also, I tend to favor a Nikon lens, as I will be able to re use the filters I
>own, but what is the best Quality /price ration ?
>Bear in mind that I live in France, so I will have limited access to American
>second hand stuff ;-)
>Thanks in advance !
>--
>
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