Just out of curiosity on 4x5" a 480mm covers 14.5? and a 600mm covers 11.5?. That is the difference between using a 179mm or a 143mm lens on 35mm. Considering the size and weight and the slight coverage difference couldn't you just use one or the other rather then carry both?
I have the non-folding Toyo VX, which I love, and recently acquired a non-folding Ebony 23s for travel purposes, which was the closest match to the Toyo VX in the 6x9 format size. Both cameras are very quick to setup, and for that matter pack up! That is why I prefer a non-folding camera design over a folding one.
The disadvantage of the non-folding camera design, in general, is the limited bellows extension, something you should be aware of. If you plan on doing close-up work or use lenses longer than 300mm, you should perhaps look at the Canham DLC 45, Linhof Master Technika, Arca Swiss 45, or the non-folding Ebony cameras.
The Toyo VX has the following advantages over the Ebony design: geared and yaw-free movements, interchangeable monorails for infinite extention, and interchangeable bellows (I prefer a bag bellows when working with wide angle lenses). Its collapsing monorail is quite unique and one of the nicest features of the camera. And I love its geared movements - rise, fall and shift - identical for both the front and rear standards.
Metal may also have an advantage in bad weather.
The Ebony is absolutely beautiful - a work of art. Its main advantage is in the design of the back - it offers a very simple, straight- forward solution to using rollfilm backs - something that eluded me with the Toyo VX. The Ebony is very rigid for a wood camera. In fact, I am willing to bet that it is just as rigid as the Toyo VX and many other metal cameras on the market.
The Toyo VX weighs about six pounds, the Ebony 2x3 about four. Check Robert White and Badger Graphics for pricing.
Both cameras fit rather nicely in a top-loading, Trim Trekker backpack, which allows for quick access to the camera. The bag also has a separate lower compartment or drawer that slides out, and can hold three to four lenses. It comes with a backpack harness and a shoulder strap, so you can decide how you want to carry your gear.
Another note: for quick photography you will need to ditch the focusing cloth. The cloth gets in the way of the knobs and can often jar the rear standard. It can make or break getting the shot off in fast-changing light situations. Get a bellows-type folding hood (both Toyo and Ebony make one), monocular or reflex viewer.
I have a Horseman HD and 135 Caltar (Rodenstock) N that folds into the camera, and infinity stops for this lens. I believe if you were just taking "general aim", and metered quickly, you could get a shot off in less than thirty seconds rather easily. In fact, it would probably take longer to set up a tripod. Whether you "should" is another story, I guess. This camera is also very compact and rigid. The 249mm bellows draw is probably the main drawback to the HD & FA. No real long lenses.
Posting Permissions
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks