The standard 150mm normal lens for 4x5 large format photography with excellent Schneider optics.
The Schneider Symmar S 150mm f/5.6 is the standard normal lens for 4x5 large format photography, equivalent to roughly a 45mm lens on 35mm format. The Symmar S series represents Schneider's professional-grade plasmat design, delivering excellent sharpness, contrast, and a large image circle for generous movements.
As the default focal length for 4x5 work, the 150mm Symmar S is where most large format photographers begin their lens collection. The bright f/5.6 maximum aperture provides a clear ground glass image for easy composition and focusing, while stopped-down performance at f/16 to f/22 is superb.
The enormous image circle allows extensive rise, shift, and tilt movements that are essential for architectural and product photography. Multi-coated optics maintain excellent contrast even in challenging lighting. The lens is typically mounted in a Copal No.0 or No.1 shutter for reliable operation.
Extremely common on the used market and available at modest prices, the Symmar S 150mm is the quintessential large format lens. Every serious 4x5 photographer owns one or has owned one. For newcomers to large format, this is the most logical and practical first lens purchase.