Chamonix 4x5H series view cameras are designed to meet the need of photographers who prefer to use very wide angle lenses.
The H series view cameras are based upon our Chamonix design tradition: The screw-focus mechanism and stainless steel focus track make the camera very accurate.
The major advantage of the H series is its fast set-up and close-down time because the lens can stay on the camera when the camera is in the bag, backpack, or case.
There are two models in the H series, 45H-1 and 45Hs-1. The 45H-1 is the more advanced of the two cameras as it has longer bellows and asymmetrical rear tilt like the 45F-2.
The rear standard on the 45H-1 can be removed and exchanged for other format backs. We have 4x10, 5x7 (horizontal only) for the 45H-1 camera. When 5x7 back is used, a 6x17cm back can be used with it. With the 45H-1 the photographer can use other formats; only the back standard is changed. All these formats have the build quality that Chamonix is known for.
Both the 45H-1 and the 45Hs-1 come in black finished metal. The wood choice are teak and cherry.
Both cameras can be ordered with either a standard or universal bellows in black.
A few pointers regarding the use of 45H cameras with heavy lenses:
Our 45H-1 and 45Hs-1 cameras are designed differently than our 45N-2 and 45F1 cameras. To increase the precision of the camera, we have used a linear focus track. A side effect of this feature is low friction in the camera bed, especially when the camera is tilted with a heavy lens.
You may consider using the following two steps to focus when your camera is not in a level position.
The first step: Loosen all the knob locks and use only your eyes (without a loupe) for the initial composition and focusing, then tighten the focus knob locks half way gradually.
The second step: Keep the locks half tightened as it is the only way the focus knobs maintain enough friction. Then use a loupe for fine focus and completely tighten the focus locks after the focus process is finished. Please remember to use one hand to hold the focus knob while the other hand is used to tighten the focus locks, otherwise slight focus shift will occur due to the worm effect of the screw-focus feature.
Watch introductory video by Hugo Zhang of Chamonix (English subtitled):
