Horseman Vcc Pro + Sony A7r

[Nathan Wright]

I have been borrowing the VCC Pro for about a week now. The images its inexpensive Rodagon 80/4 and 60/4 produce are better than my 1st-gen Nikkor 85/PC, but the VCC Pro isn't quite as stable. I feel that it is a decent system for someone who doesn't want to purchase an expensive tilt-shift lens but does need a shifting setup. The VCC Pro does a lot more than a traditional tilt-shift lens does, but it is a poor choice next to a proper view camera.

That said, the X-Pro 1 handled about like I expected:

- solid body makes for safe and stable exposures
- the EVF is poor for dark environs where stopped-down focusing is necessary
- limited to 1/125 sync, which is a shame. Would love half-stops on the exposure dial

I've written more about it here . The X-T1 pretty much is flawless in the still life studio. The only thing I wish it would have is the same: half-stop ticks on the exposure wheel so that I don't have to go to T and then select long exposures.

 

[Pete Askew]

Interesting. Thanks Nathan.

 

[Nathan Wright]

It is an interesting device, for sure, that for the lad or lass who wants more than a tilt/shift lens can do, is a winner. The m39 lenses I've used for it are great and can be had for a song.

 

[Pete Askew]

The larger image circle of the LF lenses is where you win most I guess as you can use larger movements but I guess the impact is less easy to use on an APS sensor than on a 35mm equivalent (or larger). I have looked at the Cambo version of this a couple of times but as I have the option of a PhaseOne back on a proper technical camera in the studio, the advantage wasn't there for me. I was more interested in using such a kit in the field and was worried about stability (and I think you answer that). I have been using the latest Nikon T/S lenses but they have fixed orientation and so can be limiting at times. I have just ordered the Schneider 50 and 90 T/S lenses in Nikon mount. These do not have that restriction and they have more movement (and a larger image circle). Have you ever tried the T/S bellows from Novoflex?

 

[Nathan Wright]

I have used the universal bellows from Novoflex. They are a good design, and one I was thinking about, but they offer very minimal movements next to a view camera back. For my work, that's all I need really beside stability. The Novoflex surprised me as being more stable than I expected. If they had more movement options, I'd have sprung for them.

 

[Pete Askew]

Have you seen this unit?

http://www.novoflex.com/en/products/macro-accessories/bellows-systems/tilt-shift-bellows/

 

[Nathan Wright]

I'm sorry, that is the one I used. Very clever, but not the range of movements I need. I used it at CP+2014. I may see if I can get a loaner. It could be great with light LF enlarger lenses and light mirrorless bodies.

 

[Pete Askew]

Thanks Nathan. A proper review would be nice if you get a chance.

 

[Nathan Wright]

I didn't get new commercial stuff in till too late, so the review I make will be a half-arsed attempt at being real. If lucky, I'll be able to publish it next week. I'll do my best.

 

[Pete Askew]

Thanks Nathan.

 

[Nathan Wright]

I should have the review done with examples of what can and cannot be done in my line of work with the VCC Pro by next Wednesday. Stacking is a big no no.

 

[Tom Dunne]

I'm out of my depth as far as the equipment is concerned but that is one clean image.

 

[Hamish Gill]

What are you using for background materials Nathan, out of interest?