Large format photography, without any doubt, produces the best possible quality images in or out of the studio. The combination of larger size and camera movements beats any other format hands down. Serious and pro outdoor and landscape photographers have long used view cameras, and especially field cameras for ultimate image quality and control. Two of the best and most popular field cameras in my opinion are Toyo 45AII and 45AX. Both models offer full features at reasonable prices, and are extremely rugged and portable. The weight of the camera is a major concern with field view models. Toyo field cameras are only 6 pounds and can be folded to a compact 4.2 x 7.4 x 8.2 inches. It doesn't get better than that. Cameras are precise and very solid which can satisfy any demanding photographers. One of the reasons many pros use 4 X 5 formats, is the advantage of camera movements. Toyo 45AII and 45AX offer full range of movements with features such as polymer coated parts for smoothness and 360 degrees revolving back on the deluxe 45AII . The 45AX is identical to the 45AII, except it uses a reversible 4x5 Graflock back instead of revolving back. This cuts down on the cost and weight of the camera.

Toyo 45AII and 45AX offer controls for outdoor photography of landscapes and architectural. The front standard offers rise, swing, tilt, and shift. The rear offers tilt and swing. You can easily correct distortion, adjust depth-of-field, or use selective focus.  Toyo 45AII and 45AX offer drop bed design for use with wide angle lenses with full range of movements. A wide angle 90mm lens for instance, can be used on a flat lens board offering access to all lens controls. The built-in tapered bellows eliminates the need for interchangeable wide angle bellows. The drop bed design allows use of wide angle lenses down to 45mm.

The cameras 324mm (321mm for 45AX) extension allows use of 150mm lenses for life-size macro photography. You can use wide angle lenses for twice life-size macro photography. A standard 210mm lens can be focused to 3.5 feet. That is 1/2 life size for close-up photography. Telephoto design 360mm or a standard 300mm can focus to ten feet. For super close-ups or telephoto photography, an optional 100mm extension back is  sold and well worth the money.

45II uses a revolving back for fast, convenient horizontal to vertical compositions. An easy-lift bail arm allows fast insertion of sheet films, Polaroid, and other roll film holders. Toyo's ground glass with translucent centimeter grids shows reference markings for 6x7 and 6x9 roll films for precise compositions. The revolving back includes a Super-Bright fresnal lens in front of the ground glass for even illumination and better focusing.

If you love outdoor photography and are serious about getting the best possible images, Toyo 45AII and 45AX are simply the best tools for the job. True that they do not offer automation, but the final results are breath taking. Something no 35mm or digital SLR can produce. I assure you, Toyo 45AII and 45AX will give you years of joyful photography with images that will impress any viewer. You'll never want to use any other format, once you see your first landscape image on the light box. It will be an experience you'll never forget. I promise.

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