macro questions

[rkmiec]

i have a wista sp with a nikkor 210 w lens.unfortunately there isnt alot of extension on this camera.i may get a studio 4x5 to do what i want since i think it will be cheaper than the extension kits for the sp.so what i need to know is how do i figure out the extension needed for say 1:1.there has to be a calculation.also what lens would be the best lens for close up work on the sp.i am thinking maybe of a 135 or 150mm.i am not going to do 1:1 work but i want to be able to get close.with my 210 min working distance is like 5 feet and that doesnt give me what i need on the ground glass.well thanks for the help.

 

[Alex Hawley]

In general with a large format lens, you get 1:1 at double its focal length so you need twice the normal bellows length for any given lens. I've never been able to get one to focus in between the multiple of the focal length.

When going for 1:1, its often advantageous to use a shorter lens due to an increased DOF over a longer lens; and, not as much bellows is needed. On 4x5, a 135 lens has become my favorite for both general work and 1:1. Check (there was a url link here which no longer exists) out to see if its close enough for you. Taken with a 135mm Wollensak.

 

[rkmiec]

that looks right about what i am looking for.when you say i need double you mean double the mm correct.so a 135 would need 270mm of bellows to be 1:1.thanks for the help.also what do you think your working distance was on that shot.

 

[Alex Hawley]

when you say i need double you mean double the mm correct.so a 135 would need 270mm of bellows to be 1:1.

That's correct.

thanks for the help.also what do you think your working distance was on that shot.

You're welcome. Always glad to help (when I know something about what I'm talking about ) The working distance was probably about 2-3 feet.