ARFO-4
Large-format ARFO-4 is a 6.5×9 format folding plate camera. This camera was a continuation of the large format ARFO-3 Soviet camera.
![ARFO-4](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/ARFO-4.jpg)
In fact, ARFO-4 is similar in design to ARFO-3, but of a smaller format. In fact, this is almost a medium format camera, as the most common frame size for medium format cameras of that period was 6.5×9. ARFO-4 was produced from 1935 to 1938.
ARFO-4 Specifications
- Type: 6.5×9 folding camera
- Manufacturer: Foto-Trud
- Production period: from 1935 to 1938
- Format: 6.5×9
- Lens mount: fixed lens
- Lens: ARFO anastigmat f4.5/135
- Shutter: leaf shutter with speeds of 1/25, 1/50 and 1/100 sec. plus B and T
- Viewfinder: ground glass
- Lighmeter: none
- Flash synchronisation: none
- Selftimer: none
- Weight: 1000 grams
![soviet large format camera arfo-4](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/soviet-large-format-camera-arfo-4.jpg)
![ussr large format camera](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/ussr-large-format-camera-1.jpg)
![soviet large format camera arfo-4](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/soviet-large-format-camera-arfo-1.jpg)
![soviet large format camera arfo-4](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/soviet-large-format-camera-2.jpg)
The camera has a double bellows extension. Also, there is a mechanism for vertical and horizontal movement of the lens panel. In addition, a diamond-type viewfinder has been added, which simplifies framing.
ARFO-4 has a central inter-lens ARFO shutter with shutter speeds of 1/25, 1/50, 1/100, B, T, and Anastigmat ARFO lens (4.5/12) of the Tessar type.
It should be mentioned, that it’s easier to find an ARFO-4 in a good condition than cameras of earlier versions. The lens is good enough and the camera gives quite classic-looking photos.
![soviet large format camera](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/soviet-large-format-camera-3.jpg)
![soviet large format camera arfo-4](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/soviet-large-format-camera-arfo-4-3.jpg)
But the format is quite unusual, and now it’s hard to find a 6.5 x 9 film. So if you want a camera of a similar format, you can buy a Moskva 6×9 rangefinder camera. This format is something between the medium and large format.
So what about personal feelings? Like all other cameras of this type, the ARFO-4 provides a unique experience with old classic photo equipment.
And like most of the cameras created in the Soviet Union, ARFO-4 is a kind of clone of German cameras of the early 20th century. Therefore, using similar conscience cameras you are more likely to gain experience working with German cameras.
![camera ussr](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/arfo-4-camera-ussr.jpg)
![Soviet camera](https://sovietcameras.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/arfo-4-camera.jpg)
What is your favorite Soviet camera? Do you have Soviet cameras? If so, which ones? If not, do you want to buy a Soviet camera? Write to us about this in the comments on this article.