Some of the hallmarks and apt criticisms of fanboy digital photo forums, such as those now based in Seattle, are tendencies toward putting others down, one-upsmanship, and the lack of civility and patience by posters, both OP and responses.
That seems to be happening more frequently here and in other large format forums. It's making large format forums unpleasant, even to bystanders. No wonder there's a lack of manufacturer and non-in-group participation.
Large format photography is becoming increasingly popular with a new generation of photographers seeking a thoughtful alternative to digital imaging, but while they're interested, there's much to learn, large format information is largely scattered, too-often unreliable subjective opinion, and generally hard to find with any reliability.
In the absence of clear information in one place, it's difficult, expensive, and uncertain for anyone, let alone a beginner, to put together an optimized large format outfit and use it effectively. That's why people turn to this forum for advice, hopefully objective, useful advice..
Might I suggest that more understanding, kindness and patience is needed? Also, some keep trying to one-up others or putting them down. Might I also suggest that some tact and humility are needed?
Let's keep these forums an appropriate and pleasant way to exchange opinions and learn from each other about areas where comprehensive, objective information about our craft and our gear are becoming muddied with the passage of time.
That seems to be happening more frequently here and in other large format forums. It's making large format forums unpleasant, even to bystanders. No wonder there's a lack of manufacturer and non-in-group participation.
Large format photography is becoming increasingly popular with a new generation of photographers seeking a thoughtful alternative to digital imaging, but while they're interested, there's much to learn, large format information is largely scattered, too-often unreliable subjective opinion, and generally hard to find with any reliability.
In the absence of clear information in one place, it's difficult, expensive, and uncertain for anyone, let alone a beginner, to put together an optimized large format outfit and use it effectively. That's why people turn to this forum for advice, hopefully objective, useful advice..
Might I suggest that more understanding, kindness and patience is needed? Also, some keep trying to one-up others or putting them down. Might I also suggest that some tact and humility are needed?
Let's keep these forums an appropriate and pleasant way to exchange opinions and learn from each other about areas where comprehensive, objective information about our craft and our gear are becoming muddied with the passage of time.