Press cameras like Speed and Crown Graphics were designed be used handheld. The tradeoff is indeed more restricted movements compared to a view or field camera.

Press cameras like Speed and Crown Graphics were designed be used handheld. The tradeoff is indeed more restricted movements compared to a view or field camera. But the real killer for portability with a field camera is that you need a pretty good tripod. I've got a Manfrotto 3033 for my Wista VX, and I've carried the whole kit around on my bike. But it's not easy. A view camera is generally only going to be used in a studio--portability is not much of a concern.