Nicholas Fiduccia
2-Jul-2000, 00:52
Thanks to many of you kind folks out there, I am finally starting to narrow down my first large format camera purchase. In the interests of weight, I have decided to use readyloads over carrying roll-film back and have decided to go with the more versitile 4x5 (rather than a 2x3).
However, since the camera shops in my area do not carry the cameras I am considering, I will need your advice on what would be the better purchase. My requirements are as follows:
1) I will be backpaking with this camera so I want it to be LIGHT (<4lbs or so) and fairly STURDY.
2) With a single bellows, the camera must be able to handle a 75mm lens with SOME movements and extend to at least 300mm. More extension would be nice but not required.
3) Reasonable in cost (<=$2000)
4) SIMPLE TO USE for someone with large hands.
5) Is easy to carry in a pack and is QUICK TO SETUP!
The cameras under consideration are:
Camera usable lenses weight cost comments Ebony RW45 65-340 3.8lbs $1800 no shifts Wista DXII 65-305 3.3lbs $825 no shifts Phillips 4x5 75-450 3.9lbs $1725 spring back
Which one would you buy if you were in my shoes and why?
I have heard many comments from Wista and Phillips owners but none from any Ebony RW45 owners (perhaps they are out shooting!). Your help is appreciated! Thanks!
However, since the camera shops in my area do not carry the cameras I am considering, I will need your advice on what would be the better purchase. My requirements are as follows:
1) I will be backpaking with this camera so I want it to be LIGHT (<4lbs or so) and fairly STURDY.
2) With a single bellows, the camera must be able to handle a 75mm lens with SOME movements and extend to at least 300mm. More extension would be nice but not required.
3) Reasonable in cost (<=$2000)
4) SIMPLE TO USE for someone with large hands.
5) Is easy to carry in a pack and is QUICK TO SETUP!
The cameras under consideration are:
Camera usable lenses weight cost comments Ebony RW45 65-340 3.8lbs $1800 no shifts Wista DXII 65-305 3.3lbs $825 no shifts Phillips 4x5 75-450 3.9lbs $1725 spring back
Which one would you buy if you were in my shoes and why?
I have heard many comments from Wista and Phillips owners but none from any Ebony RW45 owners (perhaps they are out shooting!). Your help is appreciated! Thanks!