Originally Posted by
darr
I am a 5'3" petite female that chooses to shoot with a Linhof MT 3000. I have owned Arca Swiss, Ebony, Wisner, Calumet and Crown Graphic cameras and choose the Linhof for its build quality and precision. I enjoyed the Ebony cameras a lot, but in the end, they were too light for using an accessory like a 6x17 back IMO. I saved and waited for my Linhof (purchased used), because I wanted the build quality. The only other view camera I may add in the future is a Sinar for its independent shutter system. I do take my Linhof out of the studio occasionally, and I shoot not far from my vehicle or from my ebike that has a rear carrier basket to hold my gear. I would not let 6 lbs of camera weight deter my need for stability and precision, as I have already been down that road before. Like the OP stated, current DSLR cameras and glass can out weigh a Linhof easily. The other thing I do to minimize weight is to purposely pack a smaller bag with only two lenses and conserve on film. Most of the time, I am only after one or two shots per location. I travel via camper van for shooting locations and stow additional gear, film, etc. in the van and recharge as needed. We all have different priorities and unique needs.
The lenses I currently have for my Linhof: Nikon 90/4.5, 150/5.6, 210/5.6, Rodenstock 65/4.5, Docter 240/9.
The accessories I use: 4x5 Reflex Viewer, Universal Finder + 60x120 mask, Techno Rollex 6x12 and Shen Ho 6x17 film backs and Ebony Lens Shade Clip.
All of this gear fits inside an Ebony bag made for their 4x5 camera system when stored.
I stow my MT with the Nikon 150/5.6 on, and had to change out the lens cap for it to fit inside the opening of the bed.
Kind regards,
Darr
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