I'd like to have a 5x7, but...

[jernejk]

I have an "attack of equipment buying syndrome" and again I'm dreaming of going LF. Ideally, I'd like to go with 5x7, because that seems like I nice print size. I have some 5x7 enlargements from 35mm hanging in my house and it feels like approx. half the size (4x5) is just too small for a print.

Oh, I should mention I don't plan to buy a LF enlarger, so I was thinking of contact printing. Now, the problem is, 5x7 cameras seem to be very, very hard to find :-(

On the other hand, there are plenty 4x5 cameras, but since I really don't want to go with the enlarger that would mean (excuse my language) going hybrid. Which again I really don't want to do.

I guess I don't even have a question, just thinking out loud... but if you have any thoughts to share, please do

 

[TheFlyingCamera]

5x7 cameras are certainly rarer than 4x5 cameras, but they're nowhere near as rare as say 6.5 x 8.5 or 10x12, for example. It is still a regular production film size, so you can buy it at your convenience instead of having to wait for a special order period. I agree it's a very lovely size for contact printing. Big enough to see from a few feet away, but small enough to be viewed in the hand.

 

[howardpan]

There is one available for sale used on the large format photography user's forum - a Canham 5x7.


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[Ian Grant]

7x5 or half-plate cameras (with modern spring backs) aren't difficult to find and at reasonable prices. What can be expensive are DDS (film holders). I was lucky when I bought two Seneca 7x5 cameras last years as someone offered me two new DDS at half the last list price, later I picked up another 8 on this forum.

It's worth subscribing to APUG and placing wanted adverts, people here often have what you need.

Ian

 

[Sirius Glass]

5"x7" might be nice but I have enough to keep me happy and busy with 4"x5".

 

[winger]

4x5 and 8x10 do seem a little easier to find, but 5x7 is a nice size for contact printing. It's my favorite size for doing Mordançage. I've considered getting one as well, though I may just look for an 8x10 with an extra back for 5x7. There are more choices for film in 8x10, too.

 

[j-dogg]

I'd like to put my name in the hat for Arista 200 Ultra EDU 5x7 film.