Want to Buy WTB 4x5 Beginner Camera or Box Camera.

[Candlejack]

Hello all! Im getting my feet wet with large format, 4x5 photography. I currently have a pinhole camera and plate holder. I would like to find an affordable 4x5 beginner camera. Wether it be graflex, a falling plate box, or an old antique conley type camera.. Im looking to take the plunge. Anyone have anything for sale or advice?
Thank you
-Andrew

 

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[Donald Qualls]

If you want to jump in at the deep end, so to speak, I have a fully working Graphic View (first-gen) with some spare parts (focusing panel, ground glass that I haven't checked for fit, rear standard, rail, bellows). Down side is, you'd have the full maximum learning curve of large format (start by reading The Camera by Ansel Adams); upside is you might never need a better camera (I've upgraded to a Graphic View II, but if not for a good price and the Graflok back, I could have used the first-gen GV for the rest of my life). I'd give a deal on price, too, as I need to get rid of it (having both the GV with spares and the GVII is a space problem), though shipping will fun in the range of $60-$70, maybe a little over.

 

[B.S.Kumar]

If you want a monorail camera, I have a couple:

1. Calumet CC-400: https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/fs-calumet-cc-400-4x5-monorail-camera.173176/
2. S&K 4x5: https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/fs-s-k-view-4x5-monorail-camera-complete-kit.185311/

You don't have to be intimidated by a monorail camera. Leave the standards zeroed, and it is just a box camera with better focusing. As and when you feel you have the confidence, start exploring movements.

Kumar

 

[Donald Qualls]

You don't have to be intimidated by a monorail camera. Leave the standards zeroed, and it is just a box camera with better focusing.

Absolutely correct. Much better focusing; many have gear drive for both front and rear standards.

 

[Candlejack]

If you want a monorail camera, I have a couple:

1. Calumet CC-400: https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/fs-calumet-cc-400-4x5-monorail-camera.173176/
2. S&K 4x5: https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/fs-s-k-view-4x5-monorail-camera-complete-kit.185311/

You don't have to be intimidated by a monorail camera. Leave the standards zeroed, and it is just a box camera with better focusing. As and when you feel you have the confidence, start exploring movements.

Kumar

Thats the most sound advice ive heard! Thanks!

 

[BradS]

The CC-400 that Kumar-san has offered is a very excellent way to get started with 4x5. It is extremely capable, rugged, reliable and much easier to set up than a folding wooden field camera. There are even a couple of lens board with standard sized holes to get you started. Many folks started with this camera and some never felt a need for anything "more". Go for it!

 

[Pioneer]

That CC400 that BS Kumar has for sale is an outstanding deal.

 

[Donald Qualls]

That CC400 that BS Kumar has for sale is an outstanding deal.

It is; especially with two lens boards and shipping included.