[Largeformat] LENS: Which One?

["Todd E. Maurer" <maurert@apk.net>]

From: "Todd E. Maurer" <maurert@apk.net>

Pete,

Probably start a storm of opinions here.  From what I've read the differences
between large format lenses manufactured after W.W.II to today are sometimes more
theoretical  than practical.   In  MOST uses of the large format lenses sharpness
is limited by the aperture used and film flatness rather than by lens design.  (And
arguably too much sharpness is a bad thing for portrait work.)  Where there is a
practical difference is in contrast and flare.  Coated lenses have a huge advantage
over non coated and Multi coated lenses have a small advantage over single coated
lenses.  So if your landscapes are to be contrasty with the sun or other bright
object in the frame, then the latest glass will be with out equal.  Less demanding
contrast and flare requirements make most lenses since W.W.II siblings if not
twins.  Some brands are noted for better quality control at certain times.  But I
doubt you could go wrong with Schneider or Nikon if either was made since the 60s.

If you're doing landscapes, the other possibility is to choose a 90 mm lens.  I
shoot about half my scenics with a 90 and the other half with a 180.  4x5 is
somewhat forgiving of cropping.  A 180 mm may not include all the elements you want
and you'd be stuck without an image at all.  A 90 mm may not be close enough for
for shoots, but you could still get the image and crop it.  If forced to take one
and only one lens today it'd be the 90 mm for this reason.  I am not certain of
which 90s cover 5x7.

Todd