New here, gone film crazy

[alex best]

Hello,
I am an intermediate photographer from Arizona, started about six years ago using only digital cameras. Until recently that is. From the beginning my quest has been to make images that stand out in a unique way with high quality, sharp focus and subtle out of focus areas. My first cameras were Canon dslr's and I eventually used/bought/tested virtually every camera and lens in their arsenal before becoming dis-satisfied with overall image quality. Nikon units that I tested were no better and after a lot of searching and photo browsing I purchased a Hasselblad H3DII-22 and 500CM. These two camera systems finally gave my pictures a bit more punch and some of the qualities I was looking for, but something was still missing. I added a Leica M6 recently for something more discreet and portable, and while I like the unique quality of the images there was still something missing.
So I guess it's time to start thinking about large format, and my inclination is to go with 8x10. I already have more portable cameras when I need them and have really fallen in love with some of the giant slides, negatives and prints I've seen from this format.
Anyways, I joined this forum recently and have been lurking for a short while reading threads and viewing some of the pictures. I'll probably ask for advice from time to time and comment on various subjects, so wish me luck or try to talk me out of it.
Either way I think I'm hooked and there's no turning back now.

Alex

[Ben Syverson]

Welcome and good luck! You're quite wise to go straight to 8x10, especially since you already have high quality smaller gear.

[memorris]

Alex, This sounds similar to my story. Go see Rod at Photomark. He is a large format guy and is very knowledgeable. He also teaches a Large Format Photography class at SCC. I have taken the class several times and most of the people have taken it more than I. It is an excellent way to learn LF and to meet others who are passionate about it. Approval from Rod is required to enroll in the class.

[alex best]

Alex, This sounds similar to my story. Go see Rod at Photomark. He is a large format guy and is very knowledgeable. He also teaches a Large Format Photography class at SCC. I have taken the class several times and most of the people have taken it more than I. It is an excellent way to learn LF and to meet others who are passionate about it. Approval from Rod is required to enroll in the class.

I have been talking to Rod and will most likely be taking the class soon.

[alex best]

Welcome and good luck! You're quite wise to go straight to 8x10, especially since you already have high quality smaller gear.

Thanks Ben, some of your pictures have helped convince me to go 8X10.

[Andrew O'Neill]

Welcome aboard, Alex. I've been working in 8x10 for about 10 years now. It was a pretty easy step from 4x5. Now thinking about going to a larger format, like 12x20...

[Ben Syverson]

Thanks Ben, some of your pictures have helped convince me to go 8X10.

Cool, thanks!

Kodak, where is my kickback check??

[John Kasaian]

It's always good to welcome another 8x10er! Now go make pictures!

[eddie]

have fun. post pics....

[Vick Vickery]

Welcome to group therepy, Alex. Sounds like you'll probably be a regular here.