Schneider Apo-Symmar 210mm f/5.6

Schneider Apo-Symmar 210mm f/5.6 is the portrait-tele 4×5 + 5×7 normal apochromatic plasmat — equivalent to roughly 70mm on 35mm when used on 4×5. Among the most-versatile Schneider LF lenses, popular for 4×5 portrait work, 5×7 standard work, and tight 8×10 landscape.

Key features

• Mount: Copal 1 shutter (1s to 1/400, X-sync at all speeds)
• Focal length: 210mm
• Maximum aperture: f/5.6
• Image circle: ~295mm at f/22 — covers 5×7 with generous movements; covers 8×10 tightly
• Optical formula: 6-element/4-group plasmat with apochromatic correction
• Multi-coating standard

Use case + rendering

The 210 Apo-Symmar is the portrait + studio 4×5 lens and normal 5×7 lens. Slightly long for 4×5 — produces flattering compression for environmental portraiture. The 295mm image circle gives substantial movements on 4×5 even with rise/fall applied.

Compatible cameras

• Toyo 45A / Toyo 45AII / Toyo 45G
• Cambo SC / Cambo Calumet 45NX
• Graflex Speed Graphic / Graflex Super Graphic — verify bellows draw
• 5×7 + 8×10 view cameras

Related lenses

• Schneider Apo-Symmar 180mm f/5.6 — wider sibling
• Schneider Apo-Symmar 240mm f/5.6 — longer sibling
• Schneider Super-Symmar HM 210mm f/5.6 — XL-IC modern alternative