Shen-Hao HZX 4X5-IIA vs Wista SP

[Robert Ley]

I recently spent my first season of shooting 4x5 with a Super Graphic and feel that I am ready to move on. I just purchased a mono-rail 4x5 (Cambo SCRII) that I really like but realize it is just too heavy for field work. Right now my work is about equally split between studio and field, thus I would like to get an appropriate field camera. I have heard many good things about both the Shen-Hao and the Wista. I like the idea of the interchangable bellows with both of these cameras. The Shen-Hao has the slightly longer bellows and is marginally lighter and smaller. The Wista, having the metal body is probably tougher and able to withstand more abuse that a field camera may be subjected to. Also, cost is a consideration. I could get a new Shen-Hao with lensboards and bag bellows for what it would cost for a good used Wista. I would like to know if anyone has used both cameras or any similar (ZoneVI vs Horseman, etc.)? My main concern with the Shen-Hao is whether it will stand up to the rigors of field work. I feel that I am fairly careful with my equipment, but stuff does happen. Any help or light that could be cast on this subject would be greatly appreciated. Regards, Robert

[Bob Salomon - HP Marketing]

Wista also has cherry, ebony or rosewood models.

[Frank Petronio]

Get a used metal bodied Wista (VX, SP, or RF) on eBay for around $800. They are much higher quality than the Chinese 4x5s or even the wooden Wista. Heck, I think they are as good as the Linhofs and/or anything else on the market. Probably one of the more underated cameras.

The SP has the micro-swing adjustment which really isn't that big a deal - so the VX (same w/o the micro swing) is also a good camera. The RF has a rangefinder.

[sanking]

Can anyone provide a direct email contact to the Shen-Hao factory in China?

[evan clarke]

Hi Sandy, Here is the link for their site..Evan Clarke http://www.shen-hao.com/right.htm

[Michael E. Gordon]

The Shen Hao is a lot of bang for the buck, and has more movements than many other comparable field cameras. I think you'll be more than satisfied with the durability of the teak. Sure, it will scratch, but it's a tool, not a museum piece.

The Shen Hao is not light: it weighs right around six pounds, but again, you'll have all the movements you will need except for extreme architecture.

www.mgordonphotography.com

[Guy Tal]

I handled the ShenHao and own a Wista VX (same as the SP but without the micro swings). Both are great cameras. Feature-wise, the ShenHao's longer bellows gives you the option of longer lenses (I know of someone who uses a 500mm telephoto Nikkor on one), and has more generous movements (including front fall that the Wista can only do if you drop the bed). The ergonomics on the Wista are nicer (smooth movements and focus, brighter screen, standard viewing hood that also protects the GG, standard fresnel etc.) and it folds into a solid brick (with 150mm lens mounted) that can be tossed in any pack with little fear of damage.
I like handling the Wista much better than the ShenHao (or other wooden models for that matters) and to me that's a significant factor. I don't think you'll be disappointed with either.

Guy

[Wayne Crider]

There's a whole slew of good cameras out there if the Super doesn't have the movements you need for whatever your doing. The questions is, what are your normal subjects? Are you looking to shoot 400 and 500mm lenses, or are you more a wide angle to normal shooter and need something that takes the wider lenses and which allows movements? The Shen Hao is very popular and cheap enough. The cherry Wista very nice, light and with a very bright GG, but obviously more money. If you've decided that you can commit to the larger format, and justify it with actually getting out and shooting more often than not, why not upgrade a little. Buy yourself a used model with some silkier movements, lighter weight with sturdy design. I am seeing more and more 4x5's of good manufactuer hitting the used classifieds lately, and being sold, so maybe keep an eye out and see what pops up. There was just a couple of Arca's recently on Photonet, but they are now apparently gone. Btw, are you going to sell the Super?

[Archphoto]

Probable a geared movement. By turning the knob you adjust finely instead of loosening a knob, move and tighten again.

By the way, this thread is a bit over 5 years old....... I wonder if the people of yesteryear are still around.

Peter

[ki6mf]

For the money you cant beat a Shen Hao. Chamoniax has similar movements and cost however delivery times are long. Shen Hao has established distribution worldwide so the camera, parts, and accessories are available. They are always bringing out new accessories like the digital adapter for your Canon or Nikon DSLR for example. If new the cost is light years lower than Wista. I have used a Shen Hao for 3 years and would never sell it. You also almost never see a Shen Hao on E Bay! Everyone holds onto these cameras!