Toyo 810MII User Experience

[Alex Weiner]

I currently shoot 4x5 landscapes, seascapes and some architectural with Sinar F2 , which I occasionaly backpack (but not too far; 1 or 2 miles at most). Ready t o add 8x10 camera for ability to contact print. Interested in Toyo 8x10 user fe edback, recommendations. Thanks much. Alex

[Bill Glickman]

I use the 810MII Toyo for Landscapes.... Pros, rock solid, good ext. 850mm, liberal movements, can use 110mm lens without bed in scene, interchangelable back for portrait or landscape mode, excellent array of accessories from toyo, all metal will not warp or crack.

Cons, heavy 15lbs, vs. 8lbs for newer lighter versions like Canham, does not fold up very small, knobs stick out, does not travel well wtithout case unlike wooden box type such as Ebony or Wisner, facotry bellows not long enough for full extension specially with movements, although a 1200mm bellows is made by Toyo, but for $1,000 (you can have one custom made for $300) no geared movements, no rear rise / fall, bag bellows required with lenses, 150mm or wider if you use movements.

If you want a true backpack 8x10, I suggest you look at Ebony, Wisner or Canham, but if you want a rock solid metal field / studio then this is the only game in town.

[Dave Anton]

I have a toyo 810 and i like it very much. I find it a little heavier than i would like but it is very solid. It feels very precise and machined as opposed to "crafted". As a backpacking camera my only complaint about it is that it is hard to hold onto when you try to put it on the tripod (unlike the wooden box type with a handle). But if metal is what you are looking for, this thing is a beauty.

[Sean Billy Bob Boy yates]

I don't own a Toyo but was looking really really hard at one, figuring I could afford to wait for a used one. However, for the cost, the lack of front axis tilt always bugged me.

I discovered the Kodak Master which is also aluminum, weighs less, and has equal or greater movements. These days they are going for $1000.00 - 1450.00 but you cn expect to put out $150.00 for a new bellows unless it's already been replaced. The only other caveat is lensboards, but the Toyos ain't cheap either.

Check the specs at http://www.camerareview.com in the large format section.

[Sean Billy Bob Boy yates]

p.s.

The Toyo is good enough for Alan Ross and Sally Mann, and the Kodak's good enough for Jock Sturges and Michael Smith and Paula Chamlee.

I guess it comes down to taste (and in my case, budget).

[Ellis Vener]

Another recommendation for the Canham, but why not look for an 8x10 conversion s et for your Sinar?

[Alex Weiner]

Thanks all for your responses. Ellis, have searched without success for a Sinar conversion that doesn't cost more than a new field camera!