I have 8x10 GAS!!!

**David Lobato** · 2-Aug-2015, 10:00

I shot 4x5 for over two decades and was satisfied. Several years ago I got the 8x10 itch and am now hopelessly mired. I love 8x10. Compared to 4x5 it requires compromises (depth of field, lens choices, film choices, cost, etc.) and has more problems to surmount (film processing, cost, logistics, old cranky shutters, wind, weight, bigger tripod and head, etc.). But the gratification I get is more than 4x5 gives me. A well done 8x10 negative is a wonder to hold and examine. Old lenses have an incomparable charm. Photographic "Art" was expanded for me, away from the stark technical perfection of 4x5. My 8x10 negatives have much potential if I decide to try alternate printing processes. I use 11x14 as well but 8x10 is the sweet spot. You won't live until you give 8x10 a shot.

**Michael R** · 2-Aug-2015, 10:20

I would advise sticking with 4x5 and making enlarged/digital versions of the negatives for alt/contact processes.

**Alan Gales** · 2-Aug-2015, 10:25

If you scan on an Epson flatbed like the V700 or V750, an 8x10 negative will just fit on the scanner. If you want to print from scans the 8x10 scans are nicer than 4x5 scans.

John Kasaian all ready said it but I'll say it again, you get to focus on that glorious huge ground glass. It's much easier to see what you are doing and just more enjoyable to me.

**William Whitaker** · 2-Aug-2015, 10:33

To truly understand and appreciate the value of 8x10 you need to shoot 14x17 (or larger). Then you will come to appreciate what 8x10 and 4x5 have to offer. And how easy it is to load 8x10 film holders.

**stradibarrius** · 2-Aug-2015, 15:20

Thanks for the great responses!

**AuditorOne** · 2-Aug-2015, 15:44

I do love 8x10 but when all is said and done the old Crown Graphic gets the most use. Just way easier to load 4x5 film holders in a dark bag while out and about.

**axs810** · 2-Aug-2015, 16:26

Get a Kodak 2D or something similar and just try it out! That was my first 8x10 camera and I instantly fell in love with it...I almost liked it more than my Wehman 8x10 but since the Wehman is more portable I'm holding onto it. But yeah if you dive into 8x10 format get some Ektascan B/RA xray film to shoot so you can have fun otherwise you're going to make yourself go broke! ;P

If it ends up being something you don't like you can always sell it on the forum

**dsphotog** · 2-Aug-2015, 21:18

Sounds like you've already decided...... You know you want it.....
Kidding aside, go for it, but keep your 4x5 gear for when you want to "travel light".

**John Kasaian** · 2-Aug-2015, 21:24

You can also make paper negatives if you want to cut corners, but to start with I suggest you get a box of whatever it is you're shooting in 4x5. You already know that emulsion so there is one less alibi and better yet, you'll see for yourself the difference between the two formats.