Hello from the Deep South

[durr3]

Hi

I recently found an old wood large format camera and lens at an estate of a couple who did portrait photography for 30-40 years. I was hoping some of you could help me with it.

What is it? Should I try to use it? Any other info would help.

I have 4 different lens with it.

thanks,
Durr

[Gary Beasley]

Why not? Do you have film holders? What is it, 8x10? That makes for a simple darkroom, you can make do with print trays and a sheet of glass for contact printing for all of it.

[durr3]

Yes, I have 3-4 backs but they look like 5 x 7 to me.

[cdholden]

It could be 5x7. Many portrait photographers shot on smaller formats to fit their customers' (or their own) budgets. The 10" lens would certainly cover 5x7. The name plate says Ansco, and the knobs certainly fit the brand, but I've never seen one of these studio models without a moving front standard. The Ilexpo shutter box is a nice feature.
I've got a 5x7 field version. The 8x10 is similar, but a bit larger.
See the field version: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cdholden/sets/72157627086867183/

[durr3]

I has a squeeze bulb shutter......do I just count 1,2,3 ??

[cdholden]

Or flip the "I" on for Instantaneous, maybe 1/20 or 1/25th of a second.

[durr3]

Thanks, I found it. Now to get some film.....

[cdholden]

or shoot some paper if you're on a tight budget.

[durr3]

I will let y'all know the rest of the story.......