Advice purchase of 4x5 field camera: Intrepid mk4 vs Shen-Hao (HZX45-IIA) vs Chamonix

Smudger

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Aug 9, 2004
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303
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Dunedin,New Zealand
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Multi Format
I have a 45F-2. The rear standard has a Massive amount of forward & back adjustment.
 

Alan Gales

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Oct 16, 2009
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St. Louis, M
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You say you are inexperienced. It's hard to make a decision on a camera when you are inexperienced. I'd suggest you buy an inexpensive used camera in good shape. Burn a bunch of film with it and learn what you like about it and what you don't. If you then find that you want something different then sell the camera for close to what you paid and buy what you want. That way you will make an educated decision.
 

Luis-F-S

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Sep 19, 2013
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Madisonville
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DREW WILEY

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Jul 14, 2011
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I'd go for the best quality within your budget range; and among the three models mentioned, that would be the Chamonix. Roll film holders are a little trickier to learn on than full 4x5 holders because of the smaller image area as well as extra weight this adds to the rear of the camera. Camera rigidity is more important than extreme movements, which you'll never use anyway. But a degree of compromise is inevitable when very light weight is a priority.
 
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