Best affordable 4X5 Field camera

[minh0204]

I’m surprised that nobody mentioned Intrepid which is by far the cheapest with 250£. Max bellows extension is 320mm which is a bit short for a 300mm. But it is a way to see whether you like 4x5” at least.
https://intrepidcamera.co.uk/products/intrepid-camera

The Intrepid is a fine entry level 4x5, but I'd be concerned about camera shake with the bellows racked all the way out for a standard 300mm lens. I don't have the 4x5, but I do own the 8x10 and my Fuji C 450mm lens begins to push the boundaries of this camera.

The intrepid is awkward at 300mm and unusable at 65mm. It's a great 75/150/210mm lens camera, but not at the extreme range that OP asked.

A Chamonix F2/N2 is a much better camera at those lengths.

[Greg Y]

I'd choose a Chamonix or Toyo..... both based on handling & build quality.

[pepeguitarra]

You will not go wrong with an Intrepid 4x5. Very light and economical.

[angusparker]

Another vote for Chamonix F2. While it's not the cheapest, you could probably sell it on for a moderate loss and chalk that up to a rental fee. Very capable and light. Great for the field. Not bad for most other uses too. Most all movements.

[Mark Sawyer]

The best 4x5 field camera is an 8x10...

[jmontague]

For entering 4x5, a press camera is ideal. While not a lot of movements, there are some brands that do provide enough for many of your needs. I bought a Burke & James which has front rise and fall, front axis tilt, a drop bed that can simulate rear tilt, etc. Not bad for starters. Plus they are very rugged.


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[Bob Salomon]

For entering 4x5, a press camera is ideal. While not a lot of movements, there are some brands that do provide enough for many of your needs. I bought a Burke & James which has front rise and fall, front axis tilt, a drop bed that can simulate rear tilt, etc. Not bad for starters. Plus they are very rugged.


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Rear movements control subject shape as well as scheimpflug and, if available, film placements.
A drop bed does not do all that. Especially controlling shape.

[Peter Lewin]

For entering 4x5, a press camera is ideal. While not a lot of movements, there are some brands that do provide enough for many of your needs. I bought a Burke & James which has front rise and fall, front axis tilt, a drop bed that can simulate rear tilt, etc. Not bad for starters. Plus they are very rugged.


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The OP said he has been involved with 4x5 cameras for 35 years, just in the studio with a monorail. So when he asks for suggestions for a field camera it isn’t an introduction to LF. In this case the main argument for a press camera might be price. The wooden folders on KEH (just as examples) run between $600-$850 or so, while press cameras with more limited movements can be found for less.

[Andrew O'Neill]

I sure do miss my Linhof Tech IV... I picked one up used back in the late 90's. Used it for a few years until I moved to 8x10. Then it got stolen.

[M.B.]

The best 4x5 field camera is an 8x10...

That´s true...