I was thinking about getting a 6X9 RFH for using some colour film with my 5X4 camera. In this, as in much of LF photography, gear is available from many decades, e.g. one camera store has an old (I assume)MPP 6X9 RFH for what appears to be a good price (<£100ukp). Having been through the learning curve with older lenses - what factors should I consider before parting with my money on an RFH ? Any recommendations ?

Thanks

Dave

-- David Tolcher (davidjt@btinternet.com), January 21, 2002

Answers

I personally use a 6x7 cm old Singer holder that has been repaired by me for many years. For color, its far more cost effective then shooting 4x5 color sheet film.

There are basically 2 types. Calumet has one that inserts in the camera like a regular sheet film holder. However, I traded mine because that film advance is very tight and turning the knob difficult, requiring several revolutions so that it moves in the camera.

Horseman makes one but your camera has to have a "Graflock back" one that has clips that hold the holder in place. It is a little more cumbersum, but film advance is one smooth stroke of the leaver similiar to 35mm camera.

-- Rob Pietri (narrationsnlight@aol.com), January 21, 2002.

Two smooth strokes, actually. I think my Horseman backs are wonderful, I have 6x7 and 6x9. They seem really well made. Others on this forum advised that they hold the film very flat. I have nothing to compare them to in that regard.

-- Sandy Sorlien (sand44@mindspring.com), January 21, 2002.

I have had the best results using the Toyo backs. They generally cost quite a bit more than 100GBP, though...

-- Jeffrey Goggin (audidudi@mindspring.com), January 21, 2002.

I have one made by Graflex and never had any problems with it. Of course it depends what kind of back your camera has.

-- Michael Franc (quelong@hotmail.com), January 21, 2002.

To those using the Singer or Horseman holders, how are you focusing the image

-- David Stein (DFStein@mac.com), January 22, 2002.

I have been using Horseman 6x9 RFH for several months on my Wista 4x5. NOthing particular to take care of, the only useful thing is to have 6x9 markings on the ground glass

Regards

-- Roberto Manderioli (rmander@libero.it), January 22, 2002.

I have posted this many times, but here goes again. Beware of Calumet old style C2 backs. Visit this link .

-- Richard Stum (info@kinesisgear.com), January 22, 2002.

David Stein asks, How are we Horseman people focusing the image?

Uh, on the ground glass?

I guess you mean, is it sharp? Looks good to me.

-- Sandy Sorlien (sand44@mindspring.com), January 22, 2002.