After hearing the romantic siren call of large format photography since taking a photo intro class in 1987, I've decided to give in to the temptation. I'm awaiting a camera and lens that I bought at online auction and need a bit more advise as I get started.
After doing some soul searching I decided I'd rather start with a monorail, and L-frames looked appealing. After loosing on a couple of bids for Horseman LE models, I was successful with a Cambo Master PC. I'm sure this camera is most at home in a studio (it weighs 16 pounds!), but it folds flat and I got it with a brief-style case for carying around in the car or whatever. For the price of a new D100 body I've gotten a really nice 4x5 body, multicoated 150mm lens, case, film holders and dark cloth; something of an anti-digital statement, I guess.
My current tripod is insufficient for this weight, so I've sold it. I'm considering a Berlebach 8023 as replacement. Any opions about that? And would it cramp my style too much to begin without a head, relying only on the camera base tilt etc.?
Also, I'm not quite clear on polaroid instant films. I've read the primer on this site that briefly describes the various films, but I don't understand what is required for the emulsions that need a coating. Do the coating supplies come with the film, or is that something separate?
And one more thing. I have a 4x5 enlarger and am anxious to do some 4x5 processing. I'll probaly start with trays, but am interested in the homemade BTSZ-like tubes. I've seen plans for the tubes, but the details seem rather vague to me, and I can't envision how the tubes are used. Can somebody point me toward comprehensive instructions?
Thanks very much. I know similar questions have been asked in the past, but I need help putting this all together.
Bookmarks