One principle that emerges in this discussion:
The common operational mode for digital cameras is "spray and pray". But that is only because the camera makes it so easy to do, and we allow ourselves to be seduced by that easiness.
For use with my 5D, I have a 24mm TS-E lens, plus a tilting adapter for Pentacon six lenses, two of which in my collection are shifting perspective-control lenses. That gives me tilt and shift capabilities at 24, 45, and 55mm, plus tilting capabilities at a range of other focal lengths. I think I could deliver pretty well on most architectural photography gigs with that setup, assuming the important stuff--the stuff between my ears--is up to snuff. Getting much out of those lenses requires much of the same careful approach as when using a view camera, and I derive basically the same enjoyment.
But there are also times when I put the 24-105 on the 5D and go into production mode, delegating a lot of authority to the camera. I have to separate photography-for-documentation from photography-for-the-sake-of-photography.
I never expect a small-format image (digital or film) to do the work of a large-format image. It just doesn't contain the necessary information. Demanding such isn't really fair to the advantages of small format, or to the return on the lack-of-convenience investment from large-format.
For those who think moving from zooms to primes will redefine their photography, don't bet on it. I have both, and I can spray and pray just as easily with primes as with zooms. I can also take a contemplative approach with zooms, if I choose to.
I've heard people say that the digital camera has no soul, but I think as much as anything we leave our souls at home when we use them. I'm not sure my Sinar has a soul, either, but it just won't work at all if I don't bring mine with me. One advantage to large format is that it enforces a contemplative approach, but even with that, I've seen (and made) a lot of uninspired images made using large format/film/whatever. That leaves me once again with the conclusion: It ain't the camera.
Rick "remembering when large-format photographers said all the same things about 35mm film that they now say about digital" Denney
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