Originally Posted by
grat
So first, I should say I'm new to both 4x5 cameras, and to using a hood. So my biggest complaint might just be par for the course with hoods.
Ease of use: Very good. Clips on easily, comes off easily. Opens without effort via a slight fingernail slot at the bottom. If you have very short fingernails, might be an issue. Can be removed with the ground glass assembly if you're using a roll film back or similar.
Looks: Snazzy! Same texture as the CF cover that comes with the camera, but looks like it was designed to be there, instead of dropped on at the last minute.
Loupe: Yes, but no. Because it's designed as a ground glass cover, the opening is just a hair larger than 4x5. I have a relatively large, medium length loupe (2" square, 2.5" high) and somewhat largish hands. If the loupe were slightly longer, or smaller, it would be much easier to work with but as it is, it's slightly awkward to use. I wind up holding the loupe against the glass with my thumb and forefinger inside the hood area, which works, but feels silly. I think I can print another base for the loupe, and get another half inch height and still be able to focus, so I may try that.
I have been able to use the camera in the field without a dark cloth, so that's a win. It does protect the ground glass without being as fiddly as the stock cover (which works, but I frequently wind up dropping it). I bought the cover and the loupe separately, without considering the combination, so that may be on me.
At least a 7/10, but I might be overly critical. Or... underly(?) critical. I lack experience to be certain. For now, though, it stays on the camera, and if it ever stops raining every day, I'll get more practice with it.
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