Final check before making the leap

[John NYC]

Sorry this is long. If you want to, just skip down to the bullet point questions.

I'm going to make the leap into large format and see if I like it. I figure at worst, I won't and I won't do it that much later on, and in the process I will have learned something more about photography. But, I doubt that. As I have moved up (quickly) from DSLR to 35mm film to medium format (several different camera types), I've had more fun each time and use them all still; though medium format has so far been the most fun. I shoot several times a week, despite a busy schedule otherwise.

As I live in NYC, I think going 8x10 might be too much (though I am tempted because of some of the shots I've seen with it). I have read here and in other places it takes a lot to cart 8x10 around. So, I am thinking 4x5 with regular sheet film, fuji instant films for checking shots and learning and possibly a panoramic 120 back, as I am already invested in 120 anyway.

I plan on shooting things that don't move: urban and rural landscapes both broad and close up, some still life indoors, some architecture (maybe architectural features rather than whole buildings), maybe an environmental portrait or two, etc. I have my Hasselblad and 150mm that covers portraits nicely, so up-close portraits are not something I'd need to do in 4x5 right away. I will shoot in color and b&w and develop at a local lab (for now even for b&w) here in NYC.

Right now I am leaning towards new equipment. I've bought all my other film camera equipment used, and I'd really like to have something new that I can maintain to my own standards. So, I'm considering the Shen Hao HZX-45IIA with a Rodenstock APO-Sironar-S 150mm/5.6. I already have a Rodenstock focusing loupe, a Sekonic 758DR and and Epson V750 scanner. I'm planning on buying from Badger Graphics.

So, a couple questions if someone will be so kind...

- Who should I talk to at Badger?

- Will the 6x17 roll film back work well with this lens? Or will I need something with a bigger IC?

- I'm not into splitting hairs, but would like a final check that this would be a fantastic beginner setup... or not... or if there are any gotchas with these choices that won't work out or that I might regret after I know more in three months of use?

Thanks in advance. I've loved reading this forum so far, and I must say it is one of the most civil and gracious message boards of any I've ever visited on any subject matter.

John

[venchka]

If it's not too late, a jogging stroller makes fast work of moving a lot of gear. Even 8x10. I have a friend who uses one for a big metal case full of RB67 gear, tripod, etc.

Good luck! Show us the photos.

[John NYC]

If it's not too late, a jogging stroller makes fast work of moving a lot of gear. Even 8x10. I have a friend who uses one for a big metal case full of RB67 gear, tripod, etc.

Good luck! Show us the photos.

Funny idea. Forgot to add I will be traveling with this also!

[Ed Richards]

I do not think that back is going to fit on your camera, so the lens coverage is a secondary issue. You are probably going to need a 5x7 camera for that back. If you want a lens to use with the 6x17, pick a slightly longer normal. 180mm is very nice. Not even that noticably longer on the GG, but plenty of extra IC for movements, and plenty for the 6x17.

[venchka]

Many folks around here use strollers. They go on planes too.

[Gem Singer]

Talk to Jeff at Badger.

A 6X17 roll film back will not fit a 4X5 camera. However, it will fit a 5X7 camera.

A 6X12 roll film back is probably the largest you can use for 4X5. The 150 will work okay for 6X12.

However, a 180 or 210 will give you more coverage, allowing greater movement capability.

[Pete Roody]

1 lens and 1 camera is a good starting point.

haven't seen the shen hao but you might want to take a look a the chamonix before deciding. a few ny'ers have them and they may chime in.

it is not that hard to get around with lf gear. once you try a bigger lf format, the smaller ones seem even more portable. that said, 4x5 is versatile if you want to travel by air. i fit my entire 4x5 kit with tripod , 5 lenses, quickload holder, and plenty of film in a medium sized backpack that i carry on the plane.

[John NYC]

This is the Shen Hao 6x17 roll back for 4x5 I was talking about.

https://www.badgergraphic.com/store/...t_detail&p=123

[Ron Marshall]

I have only purchased one lens new, and I can't tell it apart from my other gear. Most of the LF gear I have encountered has been very well cared for.

Used gear now is a bargain; it gives you the option to try and sell without a loss if you find you prefer another focal length etc.

[John NYC]

By the way, I find it a little freaky that 2 of the 3 people who have replied to me thus far are from Texas, which is where I am from originally.