4x5 vs 5x7

[dazedgonebye]

I probably won't do either one for some time...but I'm thinking of going large format and I'm curious about the difference in logistical challenges and general convenience between 4x5 and 5x7.

I'm currently shooting 35mm and medium format. I don't generally enlarge enoug to justify going to large format, but I came across some contact prints in 5x7 not long ago that have me suddenly thinking there really is a reason for me to go large.
I haven't seen 4x5 contact prints, so I can't be certain...but even the 5x7s seemed on the edge of small to be effective as contact prints. So I'm assuming 4x5 may be too small.

Of course I know that the gear is proportionaly larger and more expensive...I'm just wondering how much more inconvenient it all is.

Thanks

[Ben Syverson]

To me, 5x7 has always seemed like a format that is neither here nor there... If you're going to carry a 5x7 camera, you may as well add another pound or two and shoot 8x10.

But that's just me...

[David A. Goldfarb]

Many 4x5" cameras are really 5x7" cameras with 4x5" backs, so they're not necessarily larger. 4x5" equipment, though, is much more widely available, and you have more film choices. 5x7" makes a nicer sized contact print, and would be a better choice if you want to scan with a flatbed scanner. If you're going to enlarge conventionally, 4x5" enlargers are much more ubiquitous and cheap.

[burnesingman]

Many 4x5" cameras are really 5x7" cameras with 4x5" backs, so they're not necessarily larger. 4x5" equipment, though, is much more widely available, and you have more film choices. 5x7" makes a nicer sized contact print, and would be a better choice if you want to scan with a flatbed scanner. If you're going to enlarge conventionally, 4x5" enlargers are much more ubiquitous and cheap.

Interesting. But how do you develop it? Trays? or does Stearman make a 5x7 system? Other solutions?

[djdister]

Interesting. But how do you develop it? Trays? or does Stearman make a 5x7 system? Other solutions?

Process 5x7 sheets in 8x10 trays. I can shuffle process 4 - 5 sheets at a time.

[Joseph Kashi]

Interesting. But how do you develop it? Trays? or does Stearman make a 5x7 system? Other solutions?

Look for one of the BW King inversion 5x7 tanks on the web. These are basically like a jumbo 120 reel and stainless steel tank, holding 6 sheets per reel/tank for each development cycle. They work well and in the traditional 35mm/120 stainless steel tank fashion. These were available new until very recently. They work very well and are light-tight, so you develop in room light once loaded, just like a 120 SS tank.

[John Kasaian]

Interesting. But how do you develop it? Trays? or does Stearman make a 5x7 system? Other solutions?

I've used 8x10 trays, Unicolor print tubes, and a stainless steel tank made for developing 120 film that accommodates multiple reels.

[Nitesail]

I use a Stearman. It’ll do two 5x7’s at once.

[MAubrey]

Interesting. But how do you develop it? Trays? or does Stearman make a 5x7 system? Other solutions?

My 5x7 camera is DIY adapted from 4x5 Bender kit camera. It's great.

[Vaughn]

Interesting. But how do you develop it? Trays? or does Stearman make a 5x7 system? Other solutions?

I used a version of John's second method above, but for several years have been using Jobo Expert Drums (3006 and 3005) on a motor base. for my 5x7s (also 4x5 & 8x10). Quite nice. The drums have been worth the investment.