a brief theory of large format

[mmerig]

I just meant that you understood the relationship correctly.

A common bit of “wisdom” in LF and ULF lore is the whole thing about bigger cameras slowing you down and this slowing down leading to better photographs because you are forced to be more careful, considerate, thoughtful, whatever. As appealing and logical as that might seem, in my experience I have most often observed it to be untrue, and often the opposite, for a few reasons.

Since this thread is specifically about LF cameras, if we exclude roll film backs (ie limit the discussion to sheet film), 4x5 is realistically the biggest most people should probably consider, especially if photography isn’t a continuous activity. 8x10, for most people, ends up being too much about the “doing”, whether or not they realize it.

Of course DREW will say this is BS, but that’s because he is one of the rare exceptions, having set new standards in all formats.

Okay, I see your point now. Thank you.

 

[gone]

I have long hair and a beard. If I cut my beard off, do I have to switch to another format? Suspenders would go well w/ LF shooting, and might look nice w/ my shorts and t-shirt daily wear.

Thank goodness I ride a bike! There will be no LF shooting for me. Just toting a n8008s w/ a Leicaflex 90 lens on it is too much weight, but it's the lightest setup I can find that gives me the quality of shots that are needed. The one time I went out LF shooting, I brought a Rolleiflex w/ me just in case, and liked the shots from it more than the 4x5 camera. So that ended the LF experiment. I have a lot of respect for people who have the patience, time, and money that are needed to shoot LF though. It isn't an easy or quick way to work.

 

[Vaughn]

Bike and a 5x7. Electric, yes, but I did spend 5 months (and around 3500 km) on a push bike with a 4x5 in New Zealand many years ago.
There is as much truth in the "LF slows you down" as there is in "Roll cameras are more spontaneous." By which I mean, not much.

 

[esearing]

So short or long hair due to infrequent cuts, and general weekly shaved off stubble = Pano formats. Currently 5x12 but I'm seeing some 5x10s and 4x10s quite often now. and have a strange craving for a square format (Hasselblad).
And possibly not included in the original factors is the extra gadgetry when you go to odd sizes, custom paper cutters, custom print frames / speed easels, bigger backpacks, etc.