Buying advice for first LF camera

[Rollinhofuji]

...or even 4x5? :-) Don't be afraid of sheet film holders!

[Leigh]

...or even 4x5? :-) Don't be afraid of sheet film holders!

For someone considering the transition to LF there are really two completely separate issues.

#1 is the very different camera, with many unfamiliar features.

#2 is sheet film. The person may have no equipment to process same.

It seems reasonable to attempt the transition one step at a time, i.e. LF camera with roll film.

- Leigh

[Rollinhofuji]

OK, roll film was never an option for me (shooting LF since about 3 years now, but started with sheet film directly). But I have to say that I did not develop it by myself back then.

[andre]

For someone considering the transition to LF there are really two completely separate issues.

#1 is the very different camera, with many unfamiliar features.

#2 is sheet film. The person may have no equipment to process same.

It seems reasonable to attempt the transition one step at a time, i.e. LF camera with roll film.

- Leigh

That's indeed the case for me. I would have to upgrade the scanner and developing tank.

And one thing still boggles my mind... How does one get 20-30 sheets of film on location?

[Rollinhofuji]

That's indeed the case for me. I would have to upgrade the scanner and developing tank.

And one thing still boggles my mind... How does one get 20-30 sheets of film on location?

Simple - either bring a changing tent (expensive version of a changing bag, but far more convenient. Or, shoot less.

The latter is what I prefer. I usually shoot 6-8 sheets per day trip. That includes backup shots!

[Leigh]

And one thing still boggles my mind... How does one get 20-30 sheets of film on location?

Easy... Buy more film holders.

I have about 100 of the 4x5 size, and about 30 in 8x10.

- Leigh

[Bill_1856]

Makes sense to me; but you're not really going Large Format. Personally I'd consider a 4x5 Crown Graphic.

[Leigh]

Bill,

You have absolutely no basis for criticizing the OP.

People learn in different ways. Whatever works for the individual is fine.

- Leigh

[Leigh]

Jan,

There's a lot more to LF film than development.

You also need to print it. For 4x5 that usually requires an enlarger.

Upgrading an existing roll-film darkroom to process 4x5 can be an expensive effort.

- Leigh

[Rollinhofuji]

Jan,

There's a lot more to LF film than development.

You also need to print it. For 4x5 that usually requires an enlarger.

Upgrading an existing roll-film darkroom to process 4x5 can be an expensive effort.

- Leigh

That's true Leigh - I recently made this experience, since I set up my first darkroom (worked hybrid before).
There are many different ways to start LF.

Anyway, about 100 sheet film holders for 4x5 - that sounds like a dream to me!