I've been enjoying my foray into large format photography enough this past year that I'm starting to think about adding another lens to my tool kit. If I were to decide to go in the direction of something of longer focal length than the basic 135mm, I'm starting to think that I would like to consider getting something that would cover a larger format--which probably also means a larger shutter size. How big a shutter can I reasonably expect to use on a Speed Graphic?

Rob Dean

http://www.skgrimes.com/products/index.htm

Those are the dimensions for modern shutters. It looks like the biggest needs a hole less then 2 1/2". I have a View not a speed but I've got lenses that need bigger holes then that to fit.

Don't some of the modern cameras use the same size board?

Also larger format doesn't really mean bigger shutter. I think some of the fuji lenses that cover 8x10 use relatively small shutters. I guess the biggest draw back with smaller shutters is you'll be limited to slower lenses.

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On 2003-06-21 07:00, rsdean wrote: I've been enjoying my foray into large format photography enough this past year that I'm starting to think about adding another lens to my tool kit. If I were to decide to go in the direction of something of longer focal length than the basic 135mm, I'm starting to think that I would like to consider getting something that would cover a larger format--which probably also means a larger shutter size. How big a shutter can I reasonably expect to use on a Speed Graphic? Rob Dean

I have some #5 shutters that fit just fine (bigger number, larger shutter). One of them had to have the flange trimmed a bit though. The largest shutters may have to be mounted with a flange on the front of the board as it won't fit inside the rear.
I do have one shutter, an Alphax (no number or model) that won't fit even the 4 inch board of the GVII. It's mounted with an Aerostigmat 305mm and overall way to big for just about any 4x5.
The shutter is not the only consideration either. You have to look at the rear cell. Many lenses have large rear cells that won't fit into the opening of a Crown or Speed even if the shutter could be mounted. I think the 90mm Super Angulon may be in this category? Some people have used such lenses by unscrewing the rear cell, mount the board, then screw in the rear cell from the open back of the camera. Not my cup of tea...
There are so many different combinations, it would be better to select some lenses you have interest in and check them out. If you have doubts, then ask about them...
I am doing what you are looking into, but a bit late (after I bought my 4x5 lenses). I'm now mounting lenses on 4x4 boards to fit my GVII and also use them via an adapter board for my 8x10. This does rule out wide angle for 4x5 of course... But luckily I already have them


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"Ya just can't have too many GVIIs"
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<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: RichS on 2003-06-21 11:38 ]</font>

I've got a 12" Ilex Caltar (305mm) in Ilex #4 and Kodak Commerical Ektar 12" (305mm) in Ilex #4 shutter on pacemaker boards (homemade). Newest arrival is Goertz Dagor 12" (305mm) in Ilex #4 press. [Its not mounted yet as it needs a CLA and I'll have ot fabricate another baord.] ALL use front mount flanges. The press versions is 3 1/4 inches in diamater; the others are simular. Tight fit but just work. Edges of flange may need to be filed down to allow board locks to fully close.
Charles

To update my previous responce: CLA'ed the Goertz, fabricated a lens board for my SUPER SPEED, and shot 3 test polaroids with it after work today.
I was suprized to find the Super will close with this monster mounted on the front standard, and just checked, it won't close with either the Caltar or the Ektar.
Flange edge of Goerz and Caltar are 5mm from the edge of the board on the narrow dimension. The Ektar is less than 2mm from the edge of the narrow dimension.
Depending on lens orientation, flash bi-post, trip lever, or cable release socket will impair board lock access.
The Goerz and Caltar will fit the same flange, the Ektar will not.
The Super will focus to about 10 feet with the Gorez and no movements, about 50 feet with maxium swing/tilt.
Shutter release cable use is a MUST!
Modreate breeze could cause lens shake.
IN conclusion: 12 inch is a S T R E T C H. Try a 10.
Charles


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<font size=-1>[ This Message was edited by: 45PSS on 2003-06-27 22:15 ]</font>

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<snip> The Super will focus to about 10 feet with the Gorez and no movements, about 50 feet with maxium swing/tilt. Shutter release cable use is a MUST! Modreate breeze could cause lens shake. IN conclusion: 12 inch is a S T R E T C H. Try a 10. Charles

Um, Charles, you could get by with less extension if you used a telephoto lens. Remember that telephoto lenses have shorter back focus than usual for their focal lengths. The longest tele widely used on Graphics is the 17" Wolly. You can't use it on your Super, but I have a huge 12"/4 Taylor Hobson telephoto in barrel that I use on my 2x3 Speed. It makes infinity with the front standard on the inner rails. Don't see how it could be put in shutter, though.

I appreciate the joy of finding inexpensive old lenses that are good and using them, but there are alternatives to your long focus monsters that you might find easier to live with.

Cheers,

Dan

Gentlemen,

Thanks for the discussion on this--I'll be doing more research as it will be a while yet until the check comes in...

Rob Dean