8 x 10 format

[Robert Marcus]

do you know about the HOBO 8 x 10 camera. Can it be used for fine photographs? (on tripod). Only w/wide angle (120 mm) lens? thnx Bob M

[Dave Willison]

Robert:

For information on the Hobo, take a look at the following web page:

http://www.bostick-sullivan.com/Hobo/welcome.htm

If I remember correctly, the Hobo also comes in 5x7 and can be fitted with a choice of lenses depending on whether or not you want to print in a circular format. I believe, for example, that the 8x10 also be equipped with a 90mm lens.

You may also want to look at http://www.kerik.com/ where you will find some examples of work done with a camera similar to the Hobo. IMHO Kerik Kouklis' work demonstrates that "fine" photographs can be made using large format "point and shoot" cameras.

The drawback to the Hobo (or any LF point and shoot) is that you cannot use camera movements to increase depth of field or alter perspective. This means that certain subjects (e.g., architecture) cannot be approached with the rigor required by some LF photographers. You are also limited to a wide angle view of subject matter.

For my tastes, the Hobo is a little expensive for what it accomplishes. Over the past couple of years, I built several LF point and shoot "box" cameras (47mm--4x5, 65mm--4x5, 90mm--8x10) and it just seems more cost-effective provided you have the time and tools. I hope this helps.

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[David F. Stein]

Agreed-and these are so easy to do. http://members.aol.com/morninglp/SHOE/Shoe.html And if you want start with a 5x7 or 8x10 back (maybe $25-50) and build off of that.

[david clark]

Hi Robert, I think Peter Gowland also makes an 8*10 point and shoot that looked better to me than the HOBO. See his web page. Best, David

[David A. Goldfarb]

I have the Gowland 8x10 Pocket View, which is an ultra-light monorail camera. You can find them used quite inexpensively. They're not as rigid as a Sinar or Arca-Swiss, and no finely geared movements, but they are quite functional and great if you like a monorail you can carry into the field.

I think he makes an aerial camera and an architectural camera that function more like "point & shoots."

The website is www.petergowland.com. Click on "their cameras."

[David A. Goldfarb]

Okay, is this nutty or were there really just four postings by four "Davids" in a row? Too darn many of us out there.

[Dave Anton]

Robert, I can't comment on your HOBO question, however, if you decide to give it a go, I would be very interested in your comments. I am also considering this camera. I have seen a couple of guys on the web that use a HOBO to make images and it seems very do-able. I use a 155 mm lens on my 8x10 and I can definitely go even wider. I guess the HOBO is like the HASSY SWC except BIGGER!