Hi
I live in London, UK and currently use 35mm (SLR & rangefinder) and medium forma t (6x6cm) to photograph a fairly wide range of subjects, but mostly architecture and landscapes in both black & white (HP5) and colour (Velvia & Provia). My pho tography is for pleasure only and I don't have to satisfy paying clients.
For many years, I've been keen to explore large format and am reasonably convers ant with the main issues. On the grounds of portability, I think a field or tech nical camera will meet my needs best and I have recently been comparing two Wist a cameras - the DX (wooden) and the VX (metal). I preferred the VX for the follo wing reasons (although the DX is very pretty and a lovely camera);
- much more robust - folds up into a rigid box with both front and rear protection - built-in viewing hood - geared rise movement - rack & pinion focusing - revolving international back
However, comparing the front tilt, the wooden VX gives 45 degrees forwards and 3 0 degrees backwards. The metal VX gives just 15 degrees either way.
For landscapes, I don't envisage a great deal of movements will be necessary, bu t front tilt will probably be one of the most used for depth of field reasons (S chiempflug). Without experience 'in the field' I don't know how much movement is typically needed though. Is 15 degrees limiting or more than adequate? The DX s eems to have extensive movements, but I prefer the VX for the reasons given abov e. Any comments based on your experiences will be very much appreciated. Please fee l free to comment on the VX/DX issues if you wish. Other suggestions also welcom e.
Sorry for the long post and thanks for your time
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