Large format rangefinder forum?

[AlexC]

I'm a relative newcomer to RFF (and rangefinders in general) but have been enjoying my time here immensely. People are friendly and quick to share their insight, knowledge, and photos.

I notice that 35mm and medium format cameras are well covered but that there isn't a dedicated large format group. Having just (foolishly?) picked up a Polaroid 110B rangefinder that's been converted to 4x5, I was wondering if there's any interest in a large format rangefinder forum here? This would cover cameras like the Graflex rangefinders, Wisner Wista RF, Linhof Master Technika, Littman 45 Single, etc.

This might be a small niche, but it might be fun. Any thoughts?

 

[bobofish]

As soon as my buddy returns from his hellish sojourn in Florida (Yellow Flys, Extreme Heat, and Rediculous Humidity, at least for a native Oregonian) he'll be happy to play in the large format rangefinder forum sandbox with you, since he has a Graflex, and wants to play!
Cheers

 

[Tim]

heh heh heh........

count me in, Linhof Technica IV 6x9......

Definately has a Rangefinder, definately total antithesis of what we normally consider "rangefinder" photography!

But I'm having a LOT of fun with it...........

 

[Heath]

I have a Graflex Century Graphic, but unfortunately it came without the rangefinder attachment. But otherwise I will gladly join you guys.

Heath

 

[JasonC]

Just wondering how many models of large format rangefinders are still in production and what older models are the most desirable as a functional camara. Im familier with Crown Graphics, and ive seen some short bellowed wide angle setups with a viewfinder on top for panoramics, they were not rangefiders but I liked the way they worked. What kind of price ranges are there? Most people are scared of large format because of percieved expense. I like homemade large formats and pinhole panoramic but thats a diffrent forrum.

Large format rangefinders are press cameras. For Graphics info, go to www.graflex.org. Besides Crown Graphics, there are Speed Graphics w/ focal plane shutter for using cheap barrel lenses. There are also Super Graphics, the lastest model from Graflex, which have the most camera movments and also most expensive. Other old models that I know of are Meridian (various models), MPP (various models), Kalart Press, Busch Pressman, and Burke and James Press. Most the the press cameras also come in 2x3 (6x9cm) favor.

Still in production today are Linhof Technika (4x5 and 6x9) and Wista 45SP (don't remember exactly). They cost between US$1500 to US$2500 for body only. Different cams are required for different lenses.

For large format photography, the initial investment will be greater, but you don't need as many lenses as the smaller formats. For 4x5, 3 lenses (90mm, 150mm, 300mm) usually cover all the shooting situation. Large format films are more expensive, but you would shoot as many as 35mm, because of the slower process involved. All in all, you will be amazed by the quality of a 4x5 negative/slide.

Jason.

 

[Kin Lau]

6x9 Busch Pressman here... my Baby Graphics doesn't have a rangefinder. I'm still looking for a 4x5 though.

I think FrankS also have a 4x5 Graphic.

 

[P C Headland]

I've got an MPP Micro Press camera. Sort of an English Speed Graphic, with a top mounted RF. I have to determine which cam is fitted and adjust it a bit, but the mechanism works fine. I've only taken a test shot with it so far, using zone focus and hand-held.

 

[FrankS]

Yep, 4x5 Speed Graphic here.

 

[RObert Budding]

Oh, no! I've thought about getting a Crown Graphic! You guys might just push me over the edge!

Robert

 

[sf]

large format rangefinder

large format rangefinder

I would really REALLY appreciate a large format rangefinder forum - I have a graflex crown graphic and a homemade 4x5 wide angle and have lots of questions that no one seems to be able to answer.

 

[AlexC]

Awesome, looks like we're getting up to critical mass. I've sent Jorge a PM to see if a new forum might be possible.

 

[wlewisiii]

I've got a Speed Graphic that needs a fair bit of work yet. Perhaps this will push me to get it finished.

William

 

[Wayne R. Scott]

I don't have a Speed Graphic, but I do have a Crown Graphic and a Super Graphic both are 4x5. So I'll play too.

Wayne

 

[Gordon Coale]

I have a 3.25x4.25 Speed Graphic and the rangefinder works just fine.

 

[JOE1951]

Hello

Speed Graphic here. Unfortunately, I bought it a long time ago and never realized the rod that connects the lens standard to the rangefinder was missing, so no rangefinder goodness!! 🙁 but I still use it with zone focus or as viewcamera.

 

[DougK]

Even though I just purchased a new digital camera, I'd still like to stay involved with film. I just feel like I can't call myself a landscape photographer until I've worked in large format, so I'm pretty excited to see where this goes and would love to learn from y'all!

 

[plexi]

Don`t complain, I have a 4x5" TLR....
Now, where can I find a Large Format TLR forum? 🙂

 

[Roger Hicks]

Kiddie stuff!

Linhof made a 13x18cm/5x7 inch/half plate RF Super Tech.

See The Rangefinder book on www.rogerandfrances.com. I have only the scale-focus version (plain Technika) but my chum Oleg in Moskva has a rangefinder version (Super Technika).

Cheers,

Roger

 

[Theo-Prof]

I used to have a Technica III and wish I still had it for those times I needed some movements. I have been thinking about getting a Graphic camera for those times that I need front tilt or a little front rise/shift. I would miss the back movements of the Linhof though.

I would definitely be interested in a LF/RF forum. I will also have to check out some of the other sites that have been recommended.

Kevin

 

[Doug]

Don`t complain, I have a 4x5" TLR....🙂

Cool! Looks like a giant Mamiya C! Is that a Gowlandflex?