365cameras.com

Here is a fantastic resource if you would like to see pictures of Field Cameras of the United States: 1879-1930

There are pages devoted to: American Optical Company, The E. & H.T. Anthony Companies, The Blair Companies, Century Camera Co., The George Eastman Companies, G. Gennert, The Gundlach/Manhattan Companies, Rochester Optical Co., Scovill Mfg. Co., Seneca Camera Co., and miscellaneous other companies.

Be sure to look into each page because those companies owned several other smaller companies or had other names over time.

If you like old field cameras or even if you prefer all new view cameras, you owe it to yourself to check out this incredible resource.

The great thing about this site is the inspiration provided by the cameras that Rayment Kirby made. They’re beautiful. Stunning craftsmanship.

Also, the workshop section has some simple plans and great articles about large format camera construction.

I would love to see fully developed plans for these cameras. I’d buy them and I bet others would too. The first one I’d have to get would be the 4×5″ TLR Holy cow. Now that’s a cool camera.

Today’s entry is a classic.

Well, I think it’s a classic. It’s been on the web for a while.

Jason Brunner shows how to calculate focal length and aperture.

What’s that you say? All lenses have the focal length and aperture printed on them.

I think you need to go find yourself some older lenses to play with on a view camera.

If you don’t want to do that and think this video would be a waste of time, then you’re depriving yourself. Go on, watch it.

If you haven’t seen his stuff, it’s offbeat if not just downright strange.

I think you’ll like it.

Oh, pass the tortellini, please.

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