beginner's beginner question-- can't focus to infinity!

[drec]

Hi all,

Just got my first 4x5, a Linhof III. I've just opened up the bed, and can't seem to get any far object close to infinity to focus-- in fact, i can't get anything in focus farther than around 2 feet away! What am I doing wrong? Or, is it (doubtful) the camera?

Thanks!
Andre

[Sheldon N]

You are likely using a wider lens and have the front standard all the way out to the end of the front rail. Release the front standard and slide it about 1/2 way or more closer to the ground glass and you should be able to focus.

Remember, infinity focus occurs when the lens is closest to the ground glass - usually at about the same distance from the ground glass as the focal length of the lens you are using. When you extend the lens farther away from the ground glass, the plane of focus moves closer in.

[drec]

Bingo! Got it! Thanks!