Hobo 8x10...

Hi, I have been out of LF for many years but the desire is still lingering. Saw this Hobo and thought it would be perfect with its light weight. I also miss printin g on my Azo paper (exp.1967). Have read the past posts mostly positive but would like to hear some not so positives before purchasing. Most of the reviews have been from people doing landscapes but my desire is for enviromental portraits. Also, I think the 120mm lense would be fine but would rather use a 150mm or 180m m. Concerns about depth of field also. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks. Terry

I have the 5x7 Hobo (with a 90 mm lens) rather than the 8x10, but the Hobo experience should be similar. The only "not so positive" comment that I can make is the inability to see just exactly what you are getting on film. The viewfinder is one of those round glass objects that people put in their front doors to see who is knocking -- it sometimes fools me, especially with stuff very close to my vantage point. Other than that, I really can't complain. Also, given the fact that you focus by choosing your f-stop, if I were you, I would stick to the 120 mm lens and not go longer. On the positive side, I use the Hobo to take night shots in some less desirable places where I would just as soon not have my head under a darkcloth!

Awhile back I looked at the Hobo cameras as well and I believe there is a GG available as an accessory. There is also a "Granview" in 8x10, 4x5, as well as a 5x7 coming. They have focusing and a small amount of rise available. Prices are higher tho, but it might fit you need.

I have nothing against the Hobo but it is the kind of thing we can make ourselves at MUCH less expense. Old ground glass backs if you want that, reduction backs, shells of old view cameras, lensboards, even tracking, you name it are everywhere. Or use foamboard and build the camera right around a holder. Hand-held 5x7 can be done with the frequently seen cased cameras and so on. I think there are several outstanding do-it-yourself examples in the archives. This is one of the great fun parts of large format photography-and, on a more commercial level, something Peter Gowland exemplifies. HAVE