8x10 Field Cameras

[bill_marsh]

Thank you all for your help.

 

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Bill

[rick_moore3]

Another vote for the Canham 8x10. I've had mine for a little over a

year and am still in love with it. The longest lens I have now is a

450mm and the camera has no problems with rigidity, even when

focused closely. Of course, I shield it with a large golf umbrella

when it's windy.

 

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The Canham design really shines when using wide angle lenses. The

bellows is pretty flexible - I've had no problems when using my

120mm and 159mm lenses.

 

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I also have the Canham compendium shade. It's quite light, easy to

attach, and very effective. I have the optional fresnel lens and

find it is provides good eveness of illumination without being too

course.

 

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Once you practice a little, the Canham is a snap to set up and take

down. When folded, the camera fits perfectly, along with five film

holders, into the inner case of a Tenba PBH backpack.

 

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The quality of the fit and finish is outstanding. The support Keith

Canham provides his customers is also outstanding.

 

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My only real complaint (a very minor one) is that the levels are

mounted on the top of the rear standard and are visible only from

the top. At the tripod extensions I tend to use, the levels are

usually too high for me to see.

[dave_anton1]

Hi Bill,

as others have said, if you are thinking of going 810 in metal,

consider the TOYO. I have been using it for a few years, and although

it may be on the heavy side, it is a VERY solid camera. Movements are

very precise. I put mine in a Big LOWE Pro pack and I can hike with

it quite comfortably. All moements lock down solid. I use mine with

a massive wide angle and the lens stays where I put it.

[luc_regnier]

I bought recently an used Toyo 810MII, and I am very glad about this

camera . Strong, steady, fine crafted, very rigid, a bit heavy but

with a backpack no big problem . I have also a MF system weighting 22

lbs (bodies,lenses,backs), compare with Toyo : 26 lbs with only 1

lens (of course, you have to choice the lens before to go to field).

The main difference is the heavier ballhead/tripod, 12 versus 6 lbs .

[tim_atherton2]

"Bill, with all the money you'll save by buying an old Deardorff,

you can get yourself a pack mule to haul all your stuff around. The

best of both worlds! Good

Luck!"

 

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I've posted this link before, but here goes - (fits with all

those "backpack" threads too) - "The Photograper's Assistant" (as the

caption

says:

http://www.photoartssantafe.com/

[dan_smith]

"I'm looking to upgrade from my somewhat clunky Wista 8x10 to a

Wisner or Canham, Ebony, Lotus, Phillips, AAAAAHHHHHHH!!!!!"

 

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Wisner has a questionable reputation where service & backing its

product are concerned. Lotus is too delicate for regular field use.

Ebony too darned expensive. Philips is excellent & reflects the

qualities & ideas of its designer and leans towards wider rather than

longer lenses. Canham reflects the qualities & ideas of its designer

& generally takes longer lenses well.

 

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A solid used Deardorff will last another 50-100 years or more and

will still be in demand.

 

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If you are purchasing a brand new camera go with Philips or Canham.

Both makers will talk candidly about their excellent gear and the

desigh philosopy behind them. I know both would rather have you

purchase something else if their way of doing things won't suit your

needs. Both are worth doing business with, make good cameras & stand

behind their products.

 

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In the used market Deardorff still sells well and can be found on

tripods with some pretty good photographers under the dark cloth. If

at all possible get to a place like Quality Camera in Atlanta, GA and

get a hands on session with different cameras & see what feels best

to you before buying. Will save time & money both.

[edela_rothman]

Ebony 810SU

 

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A non-folding 8x10 camera with asymetrical tilts and swings with at

least 600mm of bellows extension (for use with Fujinon C 300mm, 450mm

and 600mm lenses) and interchangeable bellows for wide angle lenses.

 

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Okay, it doesn't exist now, but maybe with some prodding . . .

[john_d._romano]

I have had a Philips Compact II for 5 years now and you would have to

pry it from my cold, dead fingers before I would ever part with it.

Simply a joy to be in the field with.