A little help for the new newbie who wants to get started in 8x10

[Alan Gales]

Like John recommends you need a heavy duty tripod. Buy a used one and save a lot of money. Since weight is not an issue you might look for an old Majestic tripod. These things are beasts and go for reasonable prices because most want lightweight carbon fiber tripods today.

[Jac@stafford.net]

The Calumet C1 is my very favorite 8x10, and for comparison I also have Deardorff V8 and Century 1 8x10. The C1 is super sturdy, locks down very well, is reliable, focuses well. It is a PITA for field use, but still worth the trouble.
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[angusparker]

Spend the money you save on the camera on film holders like the Toyo ones. You can probably still find new old stock. Very smooth and easy to use with the tightest build tolerances of all holders.

[kanishka]

Thanks guys, when I get my first 8x10 camera I will post some photos.

[Kirk Fry]

Check out Majestic Tripods and Heads. You can often get them used for very little money as the backpacking crowd does not like them much... (mine weighs 19 lb)

[mstrickland]

If you've got the budget for it, I'd go Arca Swiss monorail any day.

[kanishka]

What do you think about the Cambo Legend?

[A.D.Avestan]

Hi guys, I registered a few days ago and it was a pleasure to find so much information here in the forum and the reviews.
There are so many options that it is still difficult for me to understand what would be the best setting for what I'm looking for.
Mainly I want a 8x10 camera to take portraits in studio with strobes or controlled locations. And with that make contact prints.

Here are some questions
Should I go with a field camera or a monorail?? I don't care if it's not light or compact. What camera would be good to start in the 8x10 world?
Which lenses do you love and recommend for portraits? I'm looking for very sharp images. Should I avoid soft focus lenses?
I will be in USA in a few weeks, can you recommend me some LF stores?

Thanks!

Hi, I am in the same situation! 8x10>Portraiture>contact print. In my case its for reference gathering to paint oil portraits from. Like WOW to read your post and the advice given!! Best wishes and go for the best!

[Mark Sawyer]

Mainly I want a 8x10 camera to take portraits in studio...

Here's a radical thought: How about an 8x10 studio portrait camera!

I know, thinking way too far outside the box...

[Alan Gales]

What do you think about the Cambo Legend?

I occasionally sell photography gear and had a 4x5 Legend for a short time. The Legends are sturdy. I can't think of anything wrong with them. I did prefer my Sinar P which of course is a more expensive camera. It all depends upon price and condition. If you can get a good deal on one then you might go for it. There is a lot of Calumet/Cambo stuff out there on the used market.