I just thought I would post my final decisions on first camera and lens, since everyone has been so helpful in answering my questions, and since ALL the threads on this site have helped me.

I finally purchased a Schneider Super Symmar 110XL and an Arca-Swiss F-Field version camera with the 30cm collapsible monorail, both from Jeff at Badger Graphics (very helpful).

I felt the weight and compactness of this Arca camera were ideal for portability, and the quality superior IMHO. I also felt the 110XL was the best lens that money could buy in this particularly focal length which I used and enjoyed most in smaller format (if you're going to go for maximum image quality, especially with the quickly improving digital scene, I felt one should start with the best - if it can be afforded of course). Since I hope my second lens will be about 180-210, the wide angle belows which comes with the Arca Field is perfect I believe. Longer lenses in the future, you bet, but then the Arca can easily be adapted with an extension and longer belows.

Once again THANK YOU for all the help. I hope, with some experience, that I can soon become a contributor to the wealth of knowledge on this forum.

Cedric Thevenaz

-- Cedric Thevenaz (cpt@trilliumcorp.com), May 14, 2001