I want to personally thank everyone who so generously took the time to share with me their knowledge. I do not have my Mamiya RZ 67 anymore. It's been 6 years since I have done any photography. I recently turned 70 and with extra time on my hands I decided to get me an 8x10 view camera and try my hand making tintypes, not for a business, just as a hobby. I purchased an Intrepid 8x10 view camera. There is a really great guy in Tuscany named Samuele who is making me a custom wet plate holder that allows for a full 8 x 10 image. I have a bunch of 8x10 frames from back in the day and I want to use those for the tintypes. Samuele website is stenopeika.com for those who are not aware of his operation. He shoots tintypes as well as glass and understands the equipment requirements. He also makes beautiful custom large format cameras and attachments. I did check with The Intrepid camera company and they said that their camera will handle the 600mm lens without problems My budget will not allow for much more than $500. Considering I will be shooting more than just head shots and given the knowledge you have provided me maybe the 300-360mm is more realistic for me. It is my understanding that these 450-600mm lenses with their double digit apertures make it difficult to focus because of the small amount of light they provide. I have seen these 300mm at f5.6 any thoughts about going with those instead?
