F:64 -Sharp is Dead

[Jay Allen]

Photography has evolved from the early days to include 35mm, medium format, large format and digital.

For years large format was used by pros because regular people could not get images that were that sharp.

But today, that has all changed.

I was out to Rockport Mass viewing the landscapes in the art/photo galeries recently. They were almost all done with digital.

So what good is large format and my sharp lens?

I have just written a new book called "Creative Graflex Photography".

The book suggest a more modern use for large format equipment.

Creation of Images with "Atmosphere".

We all like seeing that sharp image appear in the developing tray, but after we enjoy that "high" its time to finish the print. And a print that causes emotion is a winner every time.

A sharp print tells all and there is nothing left for the mind but a print with" Atmospere" will grab the viewer and not let go !

Jay Allen

[GPS]

You must be kidding...

[Paul Kierstead]

You're preaching to the choir here. I expect you know that.

However, as a matter of curiosity, if it is going to be a LF vrs Digital thing, why can't one achieve the same atmosphere with digital? What is unique about LF that allows the results you describe?

[ic-racer]

In terms of image making 'to each his own...'

But tell us more about the Graflex book!

[Jay Allen]

I can create music with an electronic key board but it will not sound like the music that a Steinway grand creates. An it is the same with digital. Yes I can create something good with my digital darkroom but it will not be the same as I can create with the full range of darkroom, special large format lens and full sized equipment. It will not have the atmospere - it wil not play the same tune!

[GPS]

Indeed, you're kidding...

[Jay Allen]

The Graflex book is a creativity. It is about how there is a difference between good photography and great photography.

It expains how a camera with a lrge focal plain shutter and a large lens board can be used with bigger lenses than thoughs found on a view camera. example the Cooke F:2.5 or the 210mm f:2.9 as found on some reflex equipment.

These different lenses can create a quality not seen in other images - in the right photographers hands.

Digital is wonderful - we are using it here but for me it too contrived and does not meet my highest standards.

Jay Allen

[Jan Pedersen]

[jb7]

Have you actually read anything on this forum?
Or do you expect this to be new to everyone here?

[BarryS]

Wait. You aren't advocating a return to Pictorialism, are you? A number of us have been distraught since the untimely end to Brotherhood of the Linked Ring in 1909. Perhaps we could form a new organisation? Brotherhood may not be the best term, because we might anticipate a member or two of the fairer sex. How about the Fellowship of the Ring? But first I want to show you something. Loosen your smoking jacket and fix yourself a Sidecar or a Champagne Cocktail and look at this. Welcome to the forum, Jay.