erin_hoffstetter

<p>Wow, what a wealth of information from you all. Thank you! It seems that the Chamonix is quite popular in this thread which means I will definitely need to look into that.<br> Kent, you bring up some really great points about portraits setting the mood and using the lenses to create mood effects, otherwise the format really won't lend a hand to that.<br> I'm looking for lenses that will really heighten the moments of my environmental portraits and vintage lenses such as the ones you mentioned seem like something really worth looking into.<br> Jose, also some really good points in terms of field vs. monorails and also those lens recommendations are really useful. <br> Sheldon, I'm really interested in what you said about the "look" of large format, can you elaborate? I really want this investment to be worthwhile and different from the look and feel of my medium format cameras. It sounds like you know more about this and I would love to hear!<br> Chris, good to know that you agree with Ellis said in terms of lenses to look into!</p>

<p>Thank you for the responses!<br> Chris, I'm not a pro at large format so knowing what is out there can be a little difficult, so it was tempting to just stick with what I know (Toyo) although it seems I might be better off with something else.<br> Sheldon, thanks a lot for all that information, you've given me some great things to consider and I will probably end up saving a lot of money and getting a great setup that fits my needs. Do you have any recommendations for something slightly wider than the 135? I usually shoot between 50 and 80 on my medium format 645 or 6x7 cameras, something similar to this would be great.<br> Ellis, I will definitely look into that set up!</p> <p>Any other suggestions are still welcome!</p>

<p>Hello,<br> I am looking to purchase a 4x5 field camera and lens and am not sure where to start. I need something that is lightweight, durable and easy to travel with. <br> For the lens, I will be mostly shooting environmental portraits and need something a little faster than the rest and of superb quality, I don't mind spending less on the camera and splurging for the lens (looking to spend around $1,500-2,000 or less).<br> A few cameras I have looked at are the Toyo 45A, 45C and 45AII. I've owned a Toyo G before and liked it, but it is going to be too heavy and cumbersome to bring out in the field. <br> I'm not looking to constantly fiddle with it or have a ton of features and accessories, I just want to get out and SHOOT.</p> <p>Thanks in advance for your input!</p> <p>Sincerely, Erin</p>