8x10 + Loupe

[Ian]

One of the smaller and less expensive items in most folks bags, but what do you use, and why?

 

[Nick Zentena]

I'm using a Peak 3x linen tester. 2003WA3 model number. It's got a square base so it fits into the corners. A big 2"x2" base with a big viewer. I got mine new off Ebay so the price was very reasonable at $10. On the downside it's kind of heavy for it's size. Made out of metal and glass. Would be better if it had some sort of suction base.

 

[noseoil]

I use the same one for both 4x5 and 8x10. Toyo 3.6X, I like the lanyard for hanging around my neck, light and bright. tim

 

[John Kasaian]

Agfa 9x until recently moving up to a Silvestri tilting 6x

 

[scootermm]

I have a toyo one like noseoil. ironically though. I find I always have it with me but rarely use it. the GG on 8x10 is so big that usually I dont need it for focusing.

 

[David A. Goldfarb]

Schneider 4x for 8x10" and larger. It's a nice size with a bright and uniform field and no distortion, so it doesn't cause eye strain.

For 4x5" I usually use the Toyo 3.6x, because it's a little longer and clears the folding viewing hood.

 

[cjarvis]

Toyo.

 

[papagene]

Calumet 7x.

 

[philldresser]

I use a Horizon 6X on my 5x4

 

[Deckled Edge]

I have a toyo one like noseoil. ironically though. I find I always have it with me but rarely use it. the GG on 8x10 is so big that usually I dont need it for focusing.

I applaud Scootermm if he can see that well on a ground glass.
I use my Toyo on EVERY set up, as I have yet to encounter a situation were I didn't need at least a little rear swing on my 11x14 or 7x17. This would not have been apparent until I looked through the loupe (or, worse, at the negative on the light box). I found that the quality of my work improved most when I began to religiously use the loupe. Even with SatinSnow GG, I just can't trust these old eyes to adjust the whole field of view to the smallest circles of confusion.

 

[Mongo]

I use a linen tester. A simple folding magnifier. Cost me about $4. Works like a charm.

It's cheap, effective, flexible, virtually weightless, and does the job. It leaves more money for film.