Oh, you've noticed already? Yes, I like archaic tools, hence don't call me old fashioned though, I use an Ipod also :-) I use my slide rule and apply mental arithmatic but feel free to use your Mobile Phone, PDA, calculator, coffee machine or whatever.... If you don't have a calculator on your mobile or coffee machine go here Bellows extension - measured from the middle of the lens (place of diaphragm) to the filmplane. In our example this is 250mm. 250:178(Aero Ektar 178mm) = 1.4 This is the compensation in f stops, if you need the BEF use the square number = 1.9 On the left you can see how it looks on our pocket slide rule (Those things don't need any batteries and are 99.5% accurate) Note: The slide rule is from the same era as my AE - 1944.
	Example II: Bellows extension is 356. Our lens is the AE 178mm. Seasoned LF shooters know immediately the outcome. Shown for your examination on our slide rule also...:-)
	While making the photographs and adjusting the slide rule I've found when BE= 100 , the BEF is about when working with the Aero Ektar 7In. This is sheer magic indeed.... NOTE: Practically the largest bellows draw when working withe AE - 314mm from the diaphragm to the filmplane. Thus the magnification=0.76 - Exposure factor=3.14 - stops down 1.6
	To get the magnification mentioned above get the front standard flush with the bed as shown. NOTE: Practically the largest bellows draw when working withe AE - 314mm from the diaphragm to the filmplane. Thus the magnification=0.76 - Exposure factor=3.14 - stops down 1.7 N O T E :: In case of emergency 360mm can be reached getting a ratio 1:1 !!(Lots of pressure on the bellows though)
	In this image you can see how far to rack the bed out to the front. The back of the frontpanel base should stop just before 8ft. These examples are only valid if you did mount the Aero our way.... Back to Pi Gallery.