Advice on lens for Horseman 6x17

[icemendicant]

I'm new to panoramic cameras but have long admired the 6x17 format and am finally in a position to do something about it. I've been becoming increasingly disillusioned with digital photography and am selling off my Canon gear and returning to film.

After looking at various panoramic cameras the new Horseman 617 seems to be what I'm after, especially with the ground glass and interchangeable film backs.

My question is - which focal length would be good to start with, the 72mm or the 90mm? I'll only be able to afford the camera and one of the lenses. I will be using this for general landscapes and exploring panoramic photography. My problem is I don't have a 'feel' for the kind of coverage I'd get with these focal lengths in this format, and actually getting hold of these cameras prior to purchase to have a look is going to be problematic.

I would be very grateful for your advice...

All the best,

Dan

 

[naturephoto1]

Hi Dan,

Though I have never seen or used these expensive cameras or even the Fuji, Linhof, etc. I do know that the standard focal length for use of 617 cameras has been the 90mm focal length. I would certainly think that for most applications that the 90mm would be preferred. The image size and the angle of view for the 72mm would get substantially smaller, less useful, and I would guess considerably more difficult to control.

Rich

 

[Jim Noel]

I have a FUji G617 with a 105 lens and like it a lot. The width of the final image seems appropriate. WHen I view 617 images made with shorter lenses I feel like there is too much space crammed into the width. Also, as the lens get shorter, there is a need to get closer to the subject so that the subject is not too small on the film. I would say go with the longer lens as a starter.

I also have a homemade 4x10" on which I put a 165mm Angulon.

The third in the pan arsenal is an X-Pan with 45 and 90 mm lenses. Believe it or not, I use the 90 more than the 45. Perhaps this is becasue with this small film the details are too small witht the 45.

Have fun!

 

[Roger Hicks]

Dear Dan,

I have used both 72mm and 90mm on 617 (though not on this camera) and would be inclined to go for the longer version. Indeed I considered 110mm on 617, so I'll second Jim: 90mm at widest.

Consider buying a Fotoman finder before you buy a camera -- they are not all that expensive -- so that you can get a feel for these f.l.s before you buy.

Cheers,

Roger (www.rogerandfrances.com)

 

[Dave Wooten]

Am testing some Focus demo 617 backs and cameras and am using fugi f/8 90 mm...see "Brooklyn Bridge" center photo of the APUG flyer ad Matt (Blaze-On) designed and used at the recent Silver convention also the Bridge photo on the Photographer's Formulary image of the month...a few month back...all were taken with the 90 mm..all hand held and infinity focus...

A very usable wide for this format and at infinity focus is even a good street shooter...

Dave in Vegas

 

[icemendicant]

Thank you all for taking the time to reply... a 90mm it is then!

Thanks Roger, I'll see if I can get hold of a fotoman viewfinder in the meantime to 'get my eye in'.

Just need to wait for all the funds to come in from my eBay sales and then I can get started.

All the best,

Dan