Which 12x20 can be used vertically?

[Markus Albertz]

Good day,

I consider getting a 12x20 field camera at some point but have not settled on any particular maker. A quick question regarding 12x20 field cameras: which of the older and newer models, in addition to the Canham 12x20 field camera, can be used vertically?

Thanks much in advance,

Markus

 

[WarEaglemtn]

All of them if you set your tripod head up to do so. Bracing the camera against a tripod leg while set up this way helps.

 

[Dave Parker]

All of them are capable of being shot verticle, just give it enough support and work slowly, if you want to do it, most cameras can be shot at any angle you can think of...

Dave

 

[sanking]

Setting up some of the older cameras for shooting vertical is possible, but be aware that there is some risk to the structural integrity of the camera because setting up the camera this way puts a lot of stress on parts that are not designed for the pressure. I once witnessed the splitting of the rear focusing track of a 12X20 Korona from the weight of the back when the camera was set up on its side.

Sandy

All of them are capable of being shot verticle, just give it enough support and work slowly, if you want to do it, most cameras can be shot at any angle you can think of...

Dave

 

[David]

I second Sandy's opinion. Before changing my Korona 8x20 to a Sinar base I dropped a very expensive lens in vertical position when the front end of the camera disengaged from the focussing track. Not a pretty sight.

 

[Dave Parker]

Thats why it pays very big divendends to figure your set up out BEFORE heading to the field and trying something you have not tried in a controlled enviorment....The photographer is always prepared....

Dave

 

[Dave Wooten]

Might sound like overkill, but I would suggest going all out and get 16 x 20 and have a 12 x 20 back made, you could do vericals and horizontals safely....I am planning to do just that with my 14 x 17 and a 7 x 17 back

 

[Markus Albertz]

Thanks for the good advice, everyone. There are evidently some issues I need to think of when considering an older camera, such as a Korona. These are good things to know in advance...

Best,

Markus