BACKPACK CAMERAS
(PAGE UNDER CONSTRUCTION)
The photo shows Grand Canyon photographer, Emery Kolb, as a 90-something (circa 1975) with his trusty (6 POUND) Burke & James Press Camera. Behind Emery's hat, a push-broom is visible - which is leaning against his head. He used the broom to make a path through the snow for himself so he could walk out to the rim and pose for this picture. Sturdy as they are, traditional press cameras are a bit heavy for a longer canyon treks, when one is loaded down with necessary water and provisions. We, who live here in order to explore and photograph these canyons, are always searching to find the LIGHTEST POSSIBLE cameras for backpacking . Cameras that make it possible to obtain 4x5 quality without having to carry a ton of gear.
A LINHOF 9x12cm press, modified to take a 4x5 back, weighs 3.5 lbs.with lens and is rock steady. When closed, the box measures 5.75 x 5.75 x 3 inches. 
Our VERY lightest, a POCKET SENECA #29, weighs in at 1.5 lbs. (including the lens.) Measuring 6.25 x 5.25 x 2 inches, the #29 is about as small as a 4x5 camera can be made. Of course, extra care must be taken to insure even focus, when working with such a flimsy apparatus.
CHECK HIM OUT !
CANYON RICK
A guy who "carries the weight" - up to 40 lbs. of gear each trip, is CANYON RICK from Trenton, New Jersey. He packs a full-sized Linhof Press outfit and tripod down these steep trails.
See the October 1998 issue of ARIZONA HIGHWAYS MAGAZINE to see his work. Also the cover of the 1999 Arizona Highways Wall Calendar... Or View Rick's site. His Grand Canyon landscapes are some of the finest being made today.
Watch this page for MORE about the CAMERAS on the left. Also TIPS on how to MAKE YOUR GEAR LIGHTER.
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