Sorry this is long. If you want to, just skip down to the bullet point questions.
I'm going to make the leap into large format and see if I like it. I figure at worst, I won't and I won't do it that much later on, and in the process I will have learned something more about photography. But, I doubt that. As I have moved up (quickly) from DSLR to 35mm film to medium format (several different camera types), I've had more fun each time and use them all still; though medium format has so far been the most fun. I shoot several times a week, despite a busy schedule otherwise.
As I live in NYC, I think going 8x10 might be too much (though I am tempted because of some of the shots I've seen with it). I have read here and in other places it takes a lot to cart 8x10 around. So, I am thinking 4x5 with regular sheet film, fuji instant films for checking shots and learning and possibly a panoramic 120 back, as I am already invested in 120 anyway.
I plan on shooting things that don't move: urban and rural landscapes both broad and close up, some still life indoors, some architecture (maybe architectural features rather than whole buildings), maybe an environmental portrait or two, etc. I have my Hasselblad and 150mm that covers portraits nicely, so up-close portraits are not something I'd need to do in 4x5 right away. I will shoot in color and b&w and develop at a local lab (for now even for b&w) here in NYC.
Right now I am leaning towards new equipment. I've bought all my other film camera equipment used, and I'd really like to have something new that I can maintain to my own standards. So, I'm considering the Shen Hao HZX-45IIA with a Rodenstock APO-Sironar-S 150mm/5.6. I already have a Rodenstock focusing loupe, a Sekonic 758DR and and Epson V750 scanner. I'm planning on buying from Badger Graphics.
So, a couple questions if someone will be so kind...
- Who should I talk to at Badger?
- Will the 6x17 roll film back work well with this lens? Or will I need something with a bigger IC?
- I'm not into splitting hairs, but would like a final check that this would be a fantastic beginner setup... or not... or if there are any gotchas with these choices that won't work out or that I might regret after I know more in three months of use?
Thanks in advance. I've loved reading this forum so far, and I must say it is one of the most civil and gracious message boards of any I've ever visited on any subject matter.
John
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