This has probably been asked before, but....
I am thinking about looking into 4x5. However I have a few questions as what I know about it is somewhere between zero and zilch.....
1) What is a good (read cheap but usable) camera to start with, used is fine, but should be available in Canada. I know about fleabay, but I don't know enough to evaluate a used 4x5 camera.
2) What is a good film to start with (B&W preferred)
3) Where near Toronto, can I learn about these cameras, perhaps try one before needing to invest in anything other then a little film and some chemicals?
Hi,
LF is well worth it if you choose suitable subject matter and are willing to put in the time and expense. In other words, don't go into it with unrealistic expectations, and you will be fine. Don't expect it to be like shooting 35. You are going to have to pick and choose your shots and your subject matter, and have the patience and drive to put a lot of effort into a single shot.
1. You need to determine if you need movements, or if you simply want a large neg. If you only want a large neg., go for a Speed or Crown, or something similar. If you want movements, there are a ridiculous number of options. If you are pretty sure you will stick with it and will want to some day expand your initial kit, I would get a low-end camera that is relatively modern, and which is backed up by a decent system. Toyo, Cambo, Omega, for instance...and even Sinar Fs are cheap nowadays. Under $500 with a lens quite frequently. My first was a Graphic View II. I loved it, but a lovely Sinar F1 kit fell my way in a trade. I prefer the whole Sinar system, so sold the GVII. If you only want a camera that takes pix, and won't need the benefits of a large system, I would highly recommend a GV. I like them a lot better than the old metal Calumets, Omegas, B&Js, etc.
2. I would start with the same film and developer that you like for your 35. Just shoot one shot for every nine you would take on 35mm, and your cost for film is the same.
3. I would take the LF class at a community college in Toronto. It's a big city. There must be several options. Whether you take a class or not, I would read a book or two. I like "The Camera", and "Photography" by London and Upton (or London and London, depending on the edition). There is another one that is all about the view camera that I got from the library one time, but I forgot what it is called. Whatever it is, it should be at your library or one nearby. I thought that it was a great book, but information overload for someone just starting out. That's why I like the two books I mentioned. Each has just a single, easily digestible chapter on the view camera.