It's funny that photographers ditched their Speed-Graphics for a Nikon F or M3 with maybe three or four lenses because it was so much lighter. Now they are still using 35mm sized cameras but take everything except the kitchen sink. Maybe the could take a lead from Ansel Adams and invest in a good pack-mule to carry their equipment.
Good points, but I would guess that photographers switched from Speed Graphics to "miniature" formats not just due to weight, but also due to capabilities. In particular, 36 frames per roll vs 6 shots in a grafmatic film holder, the easy ability to carry two or even three bodies with different lenses around one's neck, and really rapid handling are all pretty compelling reasons to switch.
--Mark
