Newbie Question About 4x5 Backs

[spleenrippa]

Hi all,

More and more lately, I've been thinking about stepping up to a 4x5 system... Only thing is, right now I don't really have the space or facilities to develop 4x5 itself. 35 and MF, no prob- LF film is just something that I have to rule out for the time being.
To that end, I'm curious as to what camera bodies/systems have 'standard' backs?
I ask, because I'd like to do the following:

A) Use roll film backs- these are usually MF film, right? If so, would there be issues filling, say, the negative on something like a 6x12 back?

B) For fun, use a 4x5->DSLR (EOS for me) adapter... I know, I know- heresy!

Neither of these might be ideal usage of a larger format system, but they'd let me get my foot in the door whilst experimenting with view camera movements. Any advice is greatly appreciated!

 

[Rick A]

I develope my 4x5 negs in an A-P brand(Freestyle's Arista brand) two reel plastic tank, taco method. Doesn't take up any more space than my MF or 35mm work. Occasionally, I even do them in trays (when I want to stay away from the family), uses the same space as my paper developing. What I'm saying here is that you have no excuse not to make the jump. Go out and buy a Calumet CC-400 or variant thereof for an inexpensive, entry level monorail.

 

[ac12]

Consider using a processing drum. Does not take much space on the counter. Check this link out.
http://www.largeformatphotography.info/unicolor/
This is the method that I am planning to use. Load the backs in a changing bag, then after you shoot, move the film from the back to the drum in a large changing bag.

Too bad Polaroid is gone and the Fuji pack back adapter is so expensive (>$200). Instant film is an easy (although expensive) method to start 4x5 w/o dealing with developing the film.

gud luk

 

[Christopher Walrath]

I will be developing 4x5 monobath in a tray in a 2x2 sink alcove in a 24 sq ft downstairs half bath. Not enough room for LF? RUBBISH I SAY! HOG WASH! Just do it. You WILL NOT REGRET IT ONE BIT!

 

[stevebrot]

If you go the roll film route, you want to get a camera that has a standard "Graflok" (aka "international") back. There are several models of 120 roll-film holders compatible with this type of back in various formats (6x4.5, 6x6, 6x7, etc.) made by several manufacturers. These include:

• Graflex
• Horseman
• Calumet
• Toyo
• Linhof
• Others...

Some are designed to slide under the ground glass in a manner similar to a sheet film holder (e.g. Calumet C2 and C2N). Others may fit under the ground glass, but must be locked into the back to insure a stable mount. The remainder mount onto the back with the ground glass completely removed. Build varies by manufacturer and by version. Potential issues include light leaks, film flatness, frame spacing, and getting a full number of exposures per roll.

Prices for new roll film backs are quite high ($300 - $2350 USD). Prices on used holders are somewhat variable and seem to be driven by demand on any particular day of the week. You can expect to pay at least $35 USD and sometimes much more at auction. Premium prices are usually asked for Linhof and Toyo. Before you buy, be sure that the holder is designed for a 4x5 back and not the smaller 2x3 (6x7 cm) cameras. KEH may be a good option if you want to buy used and don't want the hassle of an auction (Dead Link Removed).

I have personal experience with 6x7 versions of the Calumet C2 and C2N as well as the Linhof Super Rollex and like all three. The C2 and C2N are very handy in that they simply slide into place. The Linhof requires removal of the ground glass on many cameras before it will mount. The C2 is pretty roughly made and may require care when inserting to avoid damage to the ground glass. The C2N is the improved version with somewhat better build (also safe for ground glass) and is lighter with about 50% plastic construction. As a result, the C2N commands a higher price. The Linhof Super Rollex is extremely well made, but somewhat expensive used.


Steve

 

[fschifano]

Dead Link Removed gets a lot of negative comments, but I use it and quite successfully too. Once you get the knack of loading it, the process isn't all that different from processing roll film in a tank. So, no there is no reason you can't do it. Don't let the current lack of a 4x5 enlarger stop you either. With the right composition, 4x5 contact prints can be really beautiful little jewels. I don't use a rollfilm back with my LF cameras, so I can't really comment on the relative merits of the various models. If I were looking for one, I'd look first for one that slipped under the ground glass just like a standard film holder.

 

[Ian Grant]

Look for Jobo tanks and reels, I use the old 2000 Series designed for inversion agitation and they are great, hardly bigger than my Paterson tanks. The later rotary Jobo tanks can also be used with out the roller base & inversion.

The Combi & Yankee tanks are nowhere near as good, and that's from experience. The only reason I use a Yankee if for 9x12 negatives.

Ian