Schneider Symmar 300mm f/5.6

Schneider Symmar 300mm f/5.6 is the 8×10 normal-length plasmat — the standard 8×10 lens, equivalent to roughly 50mm on 35mm when used on 8×10 format. On 4×5 the 300 Symmar functions as a portrait-tele.

Key features

• Mount: Copal 3 shutter (1s to 1/125, X-sync at all speeds)
• Focal length: 300mm
• Maximum aperture: f/5.6
• Image circle: ~420mm at f/22 — covers 8×10 with movements; covers 11×14 tightly
• Optical formula: 6-element/4-group plasmat
• Convertible rear element ~520mm at f/12
• Heavy — the largest standard Symmar; tripod mandatory

Use case + rendering

The 300 Symmar is the 8×10 universal normal — the lens most 8×10 photographers use most often. Plasmat sharpness across the 8×10 frame at f/22-f/45 is excellent; the leaf shutter handles flash sync at all speeds.

Compatible cameras

• 8×10 view cameras with Copal 3 lens-board capacity
• 11×14 view cameras (tight coverage, limited movements)
• Larger 4×5 cameras can mount this lens for portrait-tele use

Related lenses

• Schneider Symmar 240mm f/5.6 — wider sibling
• Schneider Symmar 360mm f/5.6 — longer sibling
• Schneider Apo-Symmar 300mm f/5.6 — apochromatic successor