Schneider Xenar 150mm f/5.6

Schneider Xenar 150mm f/5.6 is the slower compact Tessar-derived budget LF normal at the standard 4×5 focal length — same focal length as the f/4.5 Xenar at slightly slower aperture for more compact size and lower weight. Marginal 4×5 coverage with limited movements.

Key features

• Mount: Copal 0 shutter (1s to 1/500, X-sync at all speeds)
• Focal length: 150mm
• Maximum aperture: f/5.6
• Image circle: ~170mm at f/22 — covers 4×5 with limited movements
• Optical formula: 4-element/3-group Tessar
• Single-coated on older production; multi-coated on later

Use case + rendering

The 150 Xenar f/5.6 is the compact budget 4×5 normal — slightly less bulky than the f/4.5 version and more affordable. Standard Tessar performance: sharp at center, corners improve with stopping down. Good for static-subject 4×5 work where the older Tessar character is acceptable or even desired.

Compatible cameras

• Toyo 45A / Toyo 45AII / Toyo 45G
• Cambo SC / Cambo Calumet 45NX
• Graflex Crown Graphic / Graflex Speed Graphic / Graflex Super Graphic

Related lenses

• Schneider Xenar 150mm f/4.5 — faster sibling
• Schneider Xenar 210mm f/6.1 — longer Xenar
• Schneider Symmar 150mm f/5.6 — premium plasmat alternative