The Tachihara Hope 4×5 field camera is a well-regarded choice among large format photographers, particularly those who value portability and ease of use.
The body is constructed from wood (likely cherry), which feels very smooth and good to hold. The Tachihara Hope offers a classic, aesthetic appeal while remaining reasonably lightweight. It is generally regarded as sturdy and is capable of withstanding regular use, though care must be taken to avoid damage to the wooden body.
The portability and weight are the major selling points of the Tachihara Hope camera. It’s known for being very light weight compared to many other 4×5 cameras, making it a good choice for landscape photographers who need to carry their equipment over long distances.
The camera features a folding design that allows it to be compact when not in use, which is a very helpful for travel. This style of camera is called a field camera. Other types of 4×5 cameras you might have seen are called monorail cameras, which have the standards mounted on rails, and don’t fold. These were meant to be used for studio work.
Many Tachihara Hope users appreciate that the camera is relatively straightforward to set up and adjust, though a basic understanding of view camera operation is necessary.
I absolutely love the focusing and movements from this camera. It offers standard movements (tilt, shift, rise/fall) that allow photographers to control perspective and depth of field effectively.
The image quality is superb, as with any 4×5 camera, and photographers can expect excellent image quality due to the larger film size.
When it comes to compatibility with lens mounts, the Tachihara Hope is compatible with a variety of large-format lenses, allowing photographers to choose different focal lengths that fit their specific needs and preferences.
The Tachihara Hope 4×5 camera is a solid choice for photographers looking for a portable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing large format camera. Its ease of use and compatibility with various lenses make it a favoured option for beginners and experienced photographers alike. However, those seeking more movement in a 4×5 camera or extreme durability might consider a monorail camera or other, more robust field camera options in the 4×5 market.
We have for sale a hand made 4×5 camera w/ Rodenstock Ysarex 135mm f4.5 lens for $1000, which is very similar to the Tachihara Hope 4×5 camera.
Some sample photos with my Tachihara Hope 4×5 camera…
Fireworks – First time capturing fireworks with a 4×5 camera
Firewoks – First time capturing fireworks with a 4×5 camera.
Accidental Double Exposure.
