I've always found the Peak focus finders work fine with 5x4, even if you can't see the grain (which is why we use large format right?) the image is clear enough to focus on fine detail. They're not cheap though!
Not sure if you are UK-based, but here is a source: Robert White
One of the things I find difficult with the Paterson Finder is it realy only works well on the central part of the image.
Move out towards the edges of the picture and it just stops working.
What are the Peak units like for being able to see right into the corners?
Thanks
Martin
Their top of the range model works well into the corners, but why would you want to focus them seperatly, surely if the centre is sharp then the edges will be at their sharpest too?
If they're not then the enlarger system is out of alignment somewhere.
When Odyssey Sales installed my Devere enlarger the engineer used the Peak 2000 (top of the range) simply to check the enlarger was in complete alignment, at the baseboard, lens and negative stage.
One warning about the Hocus Focus - you have to actually hold it in place with one hand. That may not seem like much of a problem, but it is finicky enough that I cannot hold it with my (limited dexterity) right hand. As I have difficulty adjusting the focus wheel on my enlarger with that same (right) hand, it means I have a lot of trouble using it.
It would be great if it could be just placed on the easel, but it can't.
If anyone knows of an adaptation that would allow one to use it "hands free", I'd love to hear of it.
Matt
I have been looking at the Peak Focus Finders on the Robert White Wed Site - but at 137 + VAT I didn't want to go and buy one and find I was no better off than with my cheapy Paterson unit.
From what you say I still wont be able to see the grain but with the Peak unit I can go and look for other details on the neg to concentrate on.
Martin
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