Linhof Tech III version 4 for first view camera?

[afsmithphoto]

I'm thinking of getting a Linhof Technica III version 4 as my first view camera. I will likely use a roll film back more often than shooting 4x5, and will NEARLY always use it in the feild. I have two concerns. First of all, are roll film backs relatively easy to get/use? Secondly what would the system weigh with an average weight lens? (My brand new tripod has a capacity of 9 pounds.) Of course any feedback is much apprecaited. Thanks guys. -Adam

 

[2Ldude]

I have the Tech III version 4 and it is a really nice camera, rugged although weighing more than the normal Field camera. I have used this camera on a Gitzo G2220 all the time. I invested in a Manfrotto support arm that attaches to the drop bed and clamps onto the leg of the tripod that makes for a extremely stable platform even in the windy state I live in. I think the weight of the camera with this setup helps control vibrations due to the wind, etc.

I will have this camera setup in the classifieds on this forum as soon as my subscription rolls over to paid status but you can see the whole add on Large Format Photography Forum.

The roll film backs I have seen have been plentiful out there on the net and reasonably priced and are fairly easy to operate.

 

[bwakel]

It has some limitations

I don't have the 4x5 but I do have the 6x9 Tech III. The camera is astonishingly well made and a joy to use from a mechanical perspective. However, be prepared for some limitations with this older model. Most noticeably, when using wide-angle lenses. I use a 65mm a lot and I have to use some front rise to avoid the focusing rails appearing in the image. Additionally, I have to use front rise to be able to use ND grad filters otherwise they'll only slide a short way down the lens. You'll experience similar problems with a 90mm lens on the 4x5. Additionally, the Tech IIIs don't have front tilt other than by dropping the bed which can be a limitation although you can get similar results with the fiddly rear tilt.

The rollfilm backs are plentiful on eBay and if you wait for a bargain you'll definitely find one.

My Tech III 6x9 weighs 4.5lbs + lens so about 8-9lb in total. The 4x5s are about 6.5lbs + lens and back so about 10-11lb which puts it over the limit of your tripod. On the other hand, because I hike a lot, I use a very lightweight Gitzo 1228 with Arca Swiss Monoball and the 6x9 is rock steady unless the wind is really gusting.

Have fun.

Barry

 

[bwakel]

On the other hand, because I hike a lot, I use a very lightweight Gitzo 1228 with Arca Swiss Monoball and the 6x9 is rock steady unless the wind is really gusting.

Sorry, that should have been a Gitzo 1128! Much lighter tripod and still stable!

Barry

 

[hka]

The Super Rollex rolfilmback 6*7cm weights 750 grams without films and filmreel.