The Schneider-Kreuznach Symmar-S 300mm f/5.6 MC is a large format taking lens designed for view camera and field camera systems, offering a generous image circle housed in a Copal 3 leaf shutter for precise exposure control.
What makes the Symmar-S 300mm f/5.6 special?
This is a classic telephoto-range lens for large format — on a 4×5 system it gives a field of view roughly equivalent to a short telephoto on smaller formats, making it a practical choice for portraits, landscapes and studio work where some compression is welcome. The multi-coated (MC) glass delivers clean contrast and colour rendition even in challenging light, and the Copal 3 shutter integrates directly with standard large format lensboards.
The Schneider Symmar-S line has a long reputation in professional view camera circles. Best results come when stopped down — experienced large format shooters typically work in the f/16–f/32 range where edge-to-edge sharpness across the image circle is at its peak. This also maximises the usable coverage for camera movements like tilt, shift and fall.
Who is this lens for?
If you shoot large format film — 4×5, 5×7 or even 8×10 — and want a reliable, proven 300mm option, the Symmar-S 300mm f/5.6 MC is a strong pick. It pairs well with field cameras and monorails alike. Photographers who already own the Schneider Apo-Symmar or are considering the Fuji 300mm f/8.5 C as a lightweight alternative will find the Symmar-S competitive on sharpness, with the advantage of the faster f/5.6 maximum aperture helping with focussing on the ground glass. Note that the Fuji 300mm f/8.5 C is a compact, featherweight option designed for travel — a different tool, not a direct optical substitute.
This listing includes a Copal 3 shutter mounted and ready for standard lensboard installation. We recommend confirming lensboard compatibility with your specific camera before purchase, as the Copal 3 shutter is the largest standard Copal size and requires a matching lensboard opening.
Buying a used or second-hand Symmar-S is a well-established path for large format photographers — these lenses were built to last, and a pre-owned copy in good condition will typically perform identically to a new one.
