Shortcomings of a Rodenstock Geronar 150mm f6.3?

[Murad Sayen]

I recently got a great deal on a Toyo 45AX and a Rodenstock Geronar 150mm f6.3 l ens. I know that the Geronar line is Rodenstock's 'econo' product line, but wha t are it's actual shortcomings and are they enough of a handicap that I will nee d to look for a 'first line' 150 for my nature/landscape work. Is the 180mm imag e circle going to be a problem in this kind of usage?

[Brian Yarvin]

For landscape and nature photography, this lens should be your first choice. This lens might not be able to give you enough coverage for the extreme movements one might find in other types of shooting, but you'll be fine for outdoor work.

On the plus side, your lens is much lighter and takes smaller filters. Two real advantages when you're working with large format outdoors. I love these modern lenses for landscapes and portraits - the are much easier to carry and do a great job.

Brian in Queens, NY

[Ron Shaw]

Also, the image circle gets larger the closer you focus. I doubt if you really focus at infinity for many shots, as you will usually be at some hyperfocal setting. It should be a fine performer.

[TAN K H]

You'll likely find this to be a lens you'll like. BTW, it is essentially a modern version of the Cooke Triplet. With so little air glass surfaces and multicoating, the contrast should be wonderful.

Use with confidence.

I hear that in the same range, the 90mm Geronar is another budget buy worth checking out if you don't require much movements.

[Patrick Raymore]

For what its worth, I would just shell out a little more cash and get a 150mm W used(plasmat design) from one of the majors. Then you will not have to worry about the coverage or the focusing image quality in the periphery when wide open.

[Tin Can]

I have been happy with my 150 mm Geronar in my folding Horseman 4X5 and 2X3, same lensboard,perfect shutter

Now I am going to try it on 5X7 close to people in groups

In my 1890 Cycle camera with Dry plates

With my vision I just try to get a sharp center and the rest is OUTTA sight!

[xkaes]

I had a Fujinon 150mm f6.3. One of Fuji's LF economy lenses -- very small and light. I was optimistic, but after I did some simple resolution comparison tests vs a Fujinon 150mm f5.6, I sold it.

The results were not bad, but I like definition and large prints.

I'd suggest the same for you. If a direct comparison is not an option, just test your lens by itself, at different f-stops, and see which are the best -- and stick to them.

[Tin Can]

I seek wide open

soft

vignetting

glass plate

flaws

I may like

[Serge S]

Just shoot with it and see if it works for you.
You may find you like it

I recently got a great deal on a Toyo 45AX and a Rodenstock Geronar 150mm f6.3 l ens. I know that the Geronar line is Rodenstock's 'econo' product line, but wha t are it's actual shortcomings and are they enough of a handicap that I will nee d to look for a 'first line' 150 for my nature/landscape work. Is the 180mm imag e circle going to be a problem in this kind of usage?

[Tin Can]

Never underestimate any lens

and always keep good shutters