T H E V I E W C A M E R A S
The Wisner Company offers four series of cameras:
The Technical Fieldtm, Traditionaltm, Expeditiontm and Pocket Expedition
The Wisner Company is well known for the highest in quality and innovation in the manufacture of fine wooden cameras. Each of the models embody simple, straight forward designs which photographers agree make Wisner cameras so intuitive and easy to use.
The traditional elegance, the classic look and feel of Wisner cameras belie the many advanced features and patents found only on our cameras.
In publication after publication, Wisner cameras have been called "The most complete camera on the market"( View Camera Magazine, August 1988) and "superior to all other wooden cameras...with a jewel like finish... (Petersen’s Photographic Magazine, October 1987) or "Wisner can claim leadership in the design and manufacture of wooden cameras... where quality is the credo" (Photo Technique International February 1988), and ..." "The Wisner Technical Field proves to be a robust camera, well conceived and practical for taking pictures rapidly." (Photo Technique International, 1996)
Our cameras are favored by professionals all over the world. Some pros use their Wisner as their primary camera, others as a backup to take on location so they can leave their monorail in the studio. In the following pages we will explain the differences and advantages of each Wisner model.
WHY WOODEN CAMERAS? Because wood is beautiful, durable, light, strong, and withstands the abuses, the grit and grime of the outdoor environment as no metal could. Like the old wooden sail boat which has been in our family for sixty-five years, our cameras are made of many of the same materials and varnished with the same varnish which we use on our boat. The boat has sat in the sun and rain and salt spray summer after summer for all these years and performs as well today as it did in 1935 when it was built. What metal camera could stand the elements like that?
PRECISION WOODWORKING. Every wooden part is made with high precision, with methods which could only be called "precision woodworking". Every dimension is made and measured with micrometers and dial calipers to within a few thousandths of an inch. Just as in the wooden works of a concert grand piano, the wooden parts of our cameras will work with precision for generations.
The mahogany and cherry we use is the finest, quarter sawn, straight grained, pattern grade stock available. All lumber is hand picked, re-sawn in our own plant from rough boards, and further graded into bed, frame, back and other components.