foto-arte - Why Large Format?

So what is Large Format Photography?

Large format photography is the means of producing images with superb tonal graduation, sharpness and delicacy with film formats starting at 6x9cm. This usually means using a large format camera with bellows in between the front and rear standards with film formats such as 6x9cm, 4x5", 5X7" and 8x10" or rollfilm panoramic cameras or filmbacks using formats such as 6x9cm, 6x12cm, 6x17cm and 6x24cm. It is also possible to use rollfilm backs on LF cameras in order to take advantage of the movements, more of which later. There are two main types of cameras: metal monorails and metal or wooden field cameras and hand held specialist wide angle cameras. All use the same lenses. In the old days LF photography was the main stay of all commercial photographers. Now it possible to purchase LF cameras at very reasonable prices and enjoy the creative process to an even greater extent.

So why use a large format camera?

Quality. The first thing to remember is that the results are far sharper, grain free and have far superior tonal gradation. The 4x5" film is 13 times bigger than a 35mm camera and a 612 film back produces a negative nearly 8 times bigger.

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Camera Movements. Camera movements allow you more control of the depth of field, shape of the object and of the perspective as well as on the areas of sharpness.

Film. You can use individual sheet film holders or rollfilm backs with an LF camera. You can also use as many types of film as you like for optimum results as a 54 film holder or rollfilm holder may contain a combination of transparency, negative or B&W. It is therefore possible to use Ansel Adams Zone System for black and white film.

Less is more. LF photography requires the contemplative approach. It is the case that with medium and large format you tend take your time producing each image. The composition and lighting become most important. With 35mm photography its volume with medium and large format its quality. Large format photography takes time so its worth investing in the shot to get it right.