But why do lenses matter? Well, simply put, not all lenses are created equal. Generally speaking in recent photographic history, lenses are designed to work both with a single camera system as well as made to cover with very little overlap only the size of the piece of film (or sensor) inside of the camera. With Mirrorless cameras becoming more and more common the idea of adapting lenses from one system to another is becoming much more common.
Lenses with larger image circles are more ideal for usage with view cameras because it allows for more movements within that circle. Tilting, shifting, rise, fall, and swing movements all require more “room” within a lens. The larger the image circle of a given lens, the more room becomes available.
As you can see from the chart above, given the smaller sensor size (when comparing against medium or large format) of modern cameras, the 24x36mm sensor can have a fair bit of movement when paired with the larger image circles of medium format lenses.
But, I already have a lens that does that…
So you may be asking, why wouldn’t I just buy a native Tilt Shift lens (Canon TS-E, Nikon PC) for my camera? And the answer all comes back to movements. Tilt shift lenses only allow for 2 of the 3 directions of movements (and usually don’t allow for more than one adjustment at a time depending on camera orientation). Only a view camera can give you the full range of movements for perspective control.
When comparing the cost of these incomplete solutions you will also find that they are similarly priced. But for the same investment, why would spend the same amount but only get 2/3rds of the features?
Because of the innovation of mirrorless cameras the modern view camera has more opportunities to thrive than ever before. Using the Nikon Z series as an example, because of the change in design the flange focal distance–
( flange focal distance (FFD), is the distance from the mounting flange (the metal ring on the camera and the rear of the lens) to the film plane. This value is different for different camera systems. The range of this distance, which will render an image clearly in focus within all focal lengths)
–was reduced by 30mm which means that more lens options become viable as they no longer are limited to focusing at a much farther point on the sensor plane. Let’s compare this to some other modern flange distances:
If you have ever written us an email asking for help choosing lenses you may have been sent the below PDF “Cheat Sheet” that describes the most commonly available lenses today, and how well they play nicely with various modern camera systems
When I say the words View Camera, I can imagine that you are envisioning one of two things:
You either know and remember (and may even miss) the “old days” where you as the photographer were in complete control over your image, and the master of your domain.
Or if you are of the more modern crop of upcoming photographers, you may be thinking of some arcane monstrosity that is too big and complicated to lug around.
If you spent some time today searching the web for answers you probably came across the following definition on Wikipedia:
A view camera is a large format camera in which the lens forms an inverted image on a ground glass screen directly at the plane of the film. The image viewed is exactly the same as the image on the film, which replaces the viewing screen during exposure. It is comprised of a flexible bellows that forms a light-tight seal between two adjustable standards, one of which holds a lens, and the other a viewfinder or a photographic film holder.
The bellows are a flexible, accordion-pleated box [that] encloses the space between the lens and film, and flexes to accommodate the movements of the standards. The front standard is a board at the front of the camera that holds the lens and, usually, a shutter.
At the other end of the bellows, the rear standard is a frame that holds a ground glass plate, used for focusing and composing the image before exposure—and is replaced by a holder containing the light-sensitive film, plate, or image sensor for exposure. The front and rear standards can move in various ways relative to each other, unlike most other camera types. This provides control over focus, depth of field, and perspective.
Lets stop right there, before we go any further let’s get one thing straight–
The current definition of a view camera is WRONG.
The image you have in mind of your Grandfather’s view camera is wrong because the view camera has changed.
In days past the view camera primarily was a tool designed to work with 4×5, 8×10 or larger pieces of film which at the time was the only way to capture extremely high resolution images.
Typical sensor sizes today are very small comparatively to the size of the film from the past, however the resolving power today is incredibly close (or even better) than it ever has been. But resolution is only part of the battle. There are many other reasons to use a view camera that aren’t only about the size of the image captured.
A view camera can do the following things better than ANY other camera or lens can do alone:
Change Perspective – Control perspective on products or buildings
Plane of Focus – Maximize or Minimize Depth of Field
View Cameras have the ability to do something else that is extremely valuable even in today’s digital world:
Get things right in camera– Not in post.
The theories and principals are the same, even though the medium today is drastically different.
Over the next few blog entries we hope to enlighten you to some of what makes a view camera unique and why even today they are still a valuable part of the photographer’s toolkit.
In 2013 the announcement was made that no more Copal shutters were going to be produced, which was a shock to large format photographers worldwide.
Over the last six years the stock of existing shutters has been at a high enough level that Photographers were still able to get their hands on these essential lens accessories.
Late last year we were made aware that Rodenstock’s stock of these shutters had finally been used up, and that no other lenses would be mounted in a Copal-0 mechanical shutter. And sadly today I must report that new Rodenstock lenses are no longer able to be purchased with mechanical shutter options.
The Future of Shutters:
We are left now with two options for our Actus and WRS camera system customers:
The E-125 and E-250 shutter system: Built and designed by Sinar, this shutter system relies on an exterior powered control box to set shutter speed and actually trigger the shutter itself. Depending on the shutter model these units are capable of a max shutter speed of 1/125th or 1/250th of a second and allow for synchronization of flash units
Due to the form factor of these shutters, new Rodenstock optics are able to be delivered for use with both the Actus (unmounted) or mounted in the Cambo WRS mount.
Sinar E-Shutter mounted for WRS. The shutter is connected to the controller box by the thick cable attached to the shutter.
More information can be found by reading Sinar’s the E-Control PDF
Please note that the E-Controller itself is not directly available through Cambo USA, and instead should be ordered through your Cambo dealer of choice, many of whom are also Sinar-Leica dealers
Rodenstock Aperture-Only Mount:
A Computer rendering of what the new Aperture-Only mounting solution will look like on an unmounted lens.
Technical Data:
Aperture size #0
Aperture control manual
Aperture range 6 f/stops.
9-Blade Design
No Flash synchronisation
Rodenstock 23HR mounted for Cambo WRS shown in Aperture Only mount.
Coming later this quarter Rodenstock will be releasing a newly designed Aperture-Only mount for their current HR optics line-up.
This newly designed mount will share the Copal-0 sizing standard, which allows it to be used with all existing Copal-0 boards available today. And like the E-125/E-250 shutters, this new option will be available in both an un-mounted version or in a WRS lenspanel for use across the entire lineup of Cambo camera options.
This is a great option when working with the latest Digital backs that have a built-in sensor-activated Electronic Shutter (Such as the Phase One IQ3-100 and new IQ4 series digital backs). In this case, there is no need for a synchronisation between lens and back, as there are no moving and vibrating shutter parts. The desired aperture is set on the mount itself, and then the back can be fired either by touching the rear screen, or remotely via cable.
Unfortunately due to the current capabilities of the modern digital back sensor assembly, flash synchronization is limited and cannot be used in all shooting situations.
(We recommend reviewing information from your manufacturer specific to your digital back of choice for more information on this type of capture situation).
Better news for Actus camera users, as this allows for high quality optics to be used much easier than in the past with modern Mirrorless or DSLR cameras. Since ISO and Shutter speed are controlled on the rear-mounted camera, the aperture can quickly be adjusted and in many cases live view can accurately show a preview of the final image before capture.
What’s Next for Lens Shutters?
As digital back sensor technology continues to get better and better, and with the eventual packaging of a global electronic shutter into digital backs, the Rodenstock Aperture-Only mount will continue to be a light-weight and easy to use option for Photographers of all types.
As for now, we wait patiently what the future will hold, and hope to have something that is as long lasting as the legacy that Copal is leaving behind.
For more information, or to purchase lenses in E-250 & Rodenstock Aperture-Only mount, please contact your Cambo USA dealer of choice by visiting our Dealer page.
Do you love your Cambo gear as much as we do? Ever wonder what kind of care and craftsmanship goes into the making of your favorite camera? Is there a Cambo camera you have had your eye on but just haven’t had the chance to get it in your hands yet? Would you like to find out for yourself??? Well then… this is the tour for you! Enjoy five nights and four days in the Netherlands filled with multi-city tours, amazing shooting locations and an exclusive Cambo Headquarters & Factory tour. Oh… and you will get to join in with the natives countrywide King’s Day celebrations!
Private Factory Tour
Cambo USA is hosting a private tour to the Netherlands this coming Spring that is sure to WOW every Cambo camera lover. This five day tour will begin with an exclusive invitation only factory tour in Kampen with Cambo’s key executives and engineers.
Try Out The Gear of Your Dreams
After you see what goes into each Cambo camera, it’s time to borrow the kit you have had your eyes on. For two whole days Cambo is loaning a special kit to every participant! Like what you tried? Take it home at the end of the trip with a special PRIVATE discount.
Stunning Shooting Locations
Have you heard about the beautiful tulips that are in full bloom during springtime in Amsterdam? Get prepared because you will have the chance to experience this in person…CAMBO STYLE! We will spend four days shooting gorgeous sites in Kampen, Urk and Amsterdam! We are pleased to have the talented Pim Van der Maden as our guest photographer and tour guide.
Guest Photographer Pim van der Maden
Full-time professional photographer since 1988 Pim specializes in floral photography, landscapes and people.
Pim is a well-known name to many international top florists, flower publications, books, brochures, and websites.
Pim will be your guide through the Tulips, the Dutch Countryside, and the Seaside Village of Urk.
Learn more about Pim, and see more of his work by visiting his website (Website in Dutch).
Kings Day Weekend
To add to your once in a lifetime experience… we are planing this entire trip around Kings Day Weekend! On King’s Day you will be free to celebrate how ever you wish! That’s right.. we’ve decided to clear the schedule so that you will have the ability to go out and join in all of the city’s festivities.
Registration Includes
Private Shuttle Transportation will be provided from the airport to the hotel in Kampen, to and from the scheduled shooting locations and to the hotel in Amsterdam on the final day. You will be responsible for your transportation on free days and on your departing flight from Amsterdam.
Hotel Accommodations four nights will be spent in Kampen at Hotel Van Dijk and one night in Amsterdam at Hotel Vondel.
Cambo Factory & Headquarters Tour Get answers directly from Cambo’s developers, give your thoughts on what new and exciting products you think should come next, and get to see where the best camera equipment in the world is born!
Private “try before you buy” Cambo Demo Equipment try out the latest Cambo equipment that you have had your eyes on. and take home the equipment of your dreams with special event only pricing.
Guided Sunrise & Sunset Shooting Tour capture the beautiful scenery of Kampen on one day followed by a Tulip driving tour on the following day using Cambo equipment.
Konigsdag “Kings Day” Party celebratewith the locals at a nation-wide party.
Hotel Van Dijk is to be found in a monumental building at the front of the river IJssel. It is favorably located in the town center and you can easily walk to the shopping areas and museums.
The attractive hotel rooms have a private bathroom and a TV. All rooms also have Wi-Fi access. In the morning you can start your day with a good breakfast in the breakfast room of the hotel.
A cozy bar is available for refreshing drinks.
There are many recreation facilities in the city and surrounding areas, such as water and forests. You can take walks, cycle or explore the sights of Kampen and Giethoorn. Bikes can be stored at the hotel. There are also museums, shops and other attractions along the river in the town center.
(Description by Booking.com)
(Image Provided By booking.com)
Amsterdam, Lodging: Hotel Vondel
Hotel Vondel is nestled among Amsterdam’s lively centre. The hotel offers outstanding accommodation at an excellent location. Distinguished by its extraordinary interiors, the hotel has a very stylish and unique ambiance. The 86 guestrooms have been specifically designed to provide comfort for everyone’s taste. The hotel’s exclusive and intimate size doesn’t prevent it from possessing an array of facilities oriented towards both business and leisure travelers. The hotel is located a stone’s throw away from the Leidseplein, Vondelpark, Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh museum right in the museum quarter & fashion district.
(Description by tripadvisor.com)
Kings Day - Koningsdag
History of King’s Day (and Queen’s Day)
Amsterdam celebrated King’s Day (Koningsdag) for the first time in 2014, after the inauguration of King Willem-Alexander on 30 April 2013 (what was then still Queen’s Day).
The royal celebrations were first held on 31 August 1885 in honour of the birth of Queen Wilhelmina, and the Queen’s Day (Koninginnedag) tradition was born. After Wilhelmina’s daughter (Juliana) succeeded to the throne in 1949, the day was changed to 30 April in accordance with the new Queen’s birthday.
When she became queen, the now Princess Beatrix chose to retain the day in honour of her mother but as of 2014, King’s Day is officially celebrated on 27 April (the king’s birthday).
The name may have changed slightly but the festive spirit of the day is sure to remain! You’ll be treated to a sea of orange as everyone – and their pet – is covered head to toe in oranje (orange) as a show of pride for the Dutch Royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau.
Every year, the royal entourage visits a town or municipality in the Netherlands as part of the celebrations.
This trip is limited to 10 slots, so don’t miss out! Fill out the form below and a Cambo USA representative will follow up as soon as possible, or contact your dealer for more information.
Find your closest Cambo dealer by visiting Cambousa.com/dealers or contact Cambo USA for a personal introduction.
In 2016 during the Society of Photographic Education conference we had the opportunity to sit in on a round table where the topic was
“How can manufacturers help support and educate the next generation of Photographers?”
The topic of teaching aids and videos quickly came up, and it was then were the gears started turning for how Cambo could help. In partnership with Dutch Photographer and Filmmaker, Gerhard Witteveen , The View Camera Movement was started.
The View Camera Moment is a five video series that walks through why view cameras were and still are an important part of Architectural, Landscape, and Product Photography.
Each video in the series is designed to quickly cover a specific topic, and contain both interesting demonstrations and compelling visuals.
These videos are offered free for educational usage and can be accessed by visiting the Cambo USA EDU Portal
