Camera for 4 X 5 Fuji Instant film

[johnny9fingers]

Hello, I want to play around with the 4 x 5 instant films offered by Fuji, but need a camera. Initially thought to get a press camera, ( have a feeler out on a Busch Press camera) but then started thinking about a pinhole camera. I suppose the press camera would give me more options, but the idea of a nice pinhole camera is interesting. I've grown weary of the digital merry-go-round, always chasing the latest techno-whiz-bang wonder cams. Now wanting simplicity... I'd gladly trade my new Pentax K20D for a decent press camera..... If you were in my shoes where would you start???

 

[JRJacobs]

I don't believe that the Busch Pressman can handle the newer Fuji 4x5 instant holders (someone please confirm), as they do not have a Graflok back. You might be better served with a Speed Graphic or Crown Graphic with a Graflok - these can handle just about any type of film holder you can imagine.

 

[2F/2F]

If you were in my shoes where would you start???

Mamiya Universal with a Polaroid back and normal lens. Same emulsions as the 4x5 (plus one additional emulsion), just a little smaller (3.25x4.25)...not to mention much cheaper.

 

[johnny9fingers]

Would the Meridian 45B accept a pack film holder?

 

[sangetsu]

I don't believe that the Busch Pressman can handle the newer Fuji 4x5 instant holders (someone please confirm), as they do not have a Graflok back. You might be better served with a Speed Graphic or Crown Graphic with a Graflok - these can handle just about any type of film holder you can imagine.

It depends on which Fuji holder you use, as they come in 2 sizes. I use the smaller size PA 145, and it fits in place just like a standard 4x5 film holder. The Fuji PA 145 will fit in any camera which accepts standard 4x5 film holders.

 

[JRJacobs]

Mamiya Universal with a Polaroid back and normal lens. Same emulsions as the 4x5 (plus one additional emulsion), just a little smaller (3.25x4.25)...not to mention much cheaper.

I used to have a Mamiya Universal - great camera, but it was heavier and bulkier than my Speed Graphic!

The Mamiya Universal cannot take a 4x5 back, however so you are stuck with the small instant films.

 

[JRJacobs]

It depends on which Fuji holder you use, as they come in 2 sizes. I use the smaller size PA 145, and it fits in place just like a standard 4x5 film holder. The Fuji PA 145 will fit in any camera which accepts standard 4x5 film holders.

Yes, but again that is not for 4x5 instant film, it is for the smaller size 3.25 x 4.25.

As a general rule, if a 4x5 camera has a Graflok type back, it can take just about any film holder you can throw at it. Some cameras with spring or bail backs can also accept the Fuji holders as well, for example my Nagaoka can. Best to consult with the manufacturer if the camera in question has a spring back.

 

[johnny9fingers]

I was thinking of using the new Fuji PA-45 holder. The fellow selling the Pressman says it has a Graflok back and can accommodate Fuji & Polaroid holders, I'm requesting pictures so I can take a look. Now I have to find out what a Pressman D in excellent shape goes for so I can make a fair offer if I decide to buy it......

 

[JRJacobs]

Ah good, then it should work! I know many people have modified their Pressman's to have a Graflok - if so that is good news.

BTW - you can also use the Polaroid 550 holder for the Fuji 4x5 film.

 

[johnny9fingers]

Mamiya Universal with a Polaroid back and normal lens. Same emulsions as the 4x5 (plus one additional emulsion), just a little smaller (3.25x4.25)...not to mention much cheaper.

Damn, as if I wasn't already riddled with indecision. I found some info on the Mamiya Universal and it sounds like a sweet machine. Maybe, if I can find one in good shape, this would be the way to go with the smaller instant films and try pinhole camera with the 4 X 5..... Man, I'm waffling worse that Brett Favre.....

 

[johnny9fingers]

Well, I found a Mamiya Universal Press in great shape so I snapped it up. Comes with a 127mm lens, Polaroid back and some Polaroid pos/neg film. A new camera is alway fun, and I'm happy to have a medium format camera again..... 4 X 5 will have to wait a bit, now I really have to sell my K20D!!!!