[LargeFormat] Greetings and questions.

[jpetrush]

A few thoughts to consider.  Take a look at the older Horseman monorails,
like the original 450.  They have geared movements in rise and fall, and
shift.  The things are crisp without being fiddley.  Many components - lens
boards, bellows, etc., are interchangable with Sinar.  The locks lock, the
detents are gentle.  They *feel* good.  A bag bellows is a must.

Weight does matter, physically fit or not.  Add up a camera, a few lenses, a
stout tripod, and all the little bits and gubbins, you may start to consider
a pack mule as part of your necessary kit!  It adds up more quickly than you
might imagine.

Heed Les's sage advice - spend your hard earned $$$ on quality glass.  I'd
add film holders to that list.  Cameras may come and go, but lenses are long
term acquisitions.

Most important, enjoy :)

jp

----- Original Message -----
From: "John" <johnp@novia.net>
Subject: [LargeFormat] Greetings and questions.


>
> I like precision, but I DO NOT like to fiddle with things - ie I wont like
> an un-rigid camera.  Or a lock that wont stay, or zero detents that wont
> allow small adjustments, etc.
>
> I think I would prefer a lighter monorail over a field camera, but weight
isn't
> all that important to me - I'm in decent shape.  I just want something
reliable,
> sturdy, precise and a joy to use in the areas mentioned above.

> Some of the cameras that I have looked at so far and have found
attractive:
>
> Arca Swiss, Sinar, Toyo GX/VX125 and Kardan (That Master looks nice!!! but
the price, ouch)
> - the system cameras that will allow you to expand to 8 x 10.
>
> Canham DLC
> Wista 4x5 SP Technical - rear focus and 5x7 back option!
> Wisner Expedition, Technical
>