I have 8x10 GAS!!!

[stradibarrius]

I have only shot 4x5 to this point but have developed a case of 8x10 GAS...For those of you that have experience with both 4x5 and 8x10 can you help me out???
I know with 8x10 I can make contact prints that are not as viewable in 4x5, generally. Also I know 8x10 is heavier and more expensive but what are some other positives and negatives too. I think, that it would be easier to use Xray film with 8x10 too, which is something I would like to try.
I am also interested in trying carbon printing and some other alternative techniques if this has any bearing on format size...

[karl french]

All your questions can be answered by spending time reading this very forum. Make use of the vast and informative archive of posts.

[Paul Metcalf]

I know with 8x10 I can make contact prints that are not as viewable in 4x5, generally.

I do not understand this statement at all. Please amplify.

[Taija71A]

Gas in the 8x10 digestive tract is a very common problem... For Large Format 'Newbies'.
But, when the gas becomes excessive... It can be painful and embarrassing.

Here is my suggestion for preventing GAS:

* * * Just, 'Shoot' with the 4x5 Equipment that you presently own. * * *

The thing that I like the most about this remedy... Is that it doesn't require the purchase of any additional 8x10 'Over-the-counter Supplements'.

This remedy actually works!
It will soothe your stomach and give you 'instant relief' from your problem!

[John Kasaian]

Pros---
You get a lot of detail in 8x10.
Larger negatives are more fun to work with IMHO.
Focusing on the larger ground glass I find, is easier.
Big cameras are chick magnets.
Holding an 8x10 contact in your mitts has a level of charm that's hard to describe.
You get to eliminate one capital piece to equipment---an enlarger.
No grain, unless you screw up real bad.

Cons---
Everything is more expensive.
Heavier gear.
Physically more awkward to tote around.
Any color photography is going to be over the top expensive
People will often mistake you for being a "historical reinactor"
Small children will grab onto your beard and yank it
If you're shooting in the Sierra, you'll have a heck of a time finding a shot AA hasn't already taken.

You can buy your kit and shoot 8x10 on a budget.
That's what I've done, but I accept the fact that some items aren't worth skimping on.

I hope this helps!

[stradibarrius]

Thanks John, your answer does help.To search this forum requires that you first know what to search for. If you don't know what the real advantages and disadvantages are then you just get a bunch of emotional stuff. Your answer had some of the info I was hoping to get.
Also I do shoot my 4x5 along with my MF and digital too.

Pros---
You get a lot of detail in 8x10.
Larger negatives are more fun to work with IMHO.
Focusing on the larger ground glass I find, is easier.
Big cameras are chick magnets.
Holding an 8x10 contact in your mitts has a level of charm that's hard to describe.
You get to eliminate one capital piece to equipment---an enlarger.

Cons---
Everything is more expensive.
Heavier gear.
Physically more awkward to tote around.
Any color photography is going to be over the top expensive
People will often mistake you for being a "historical reinactor"
Small children will grab onto your beard and yank it
If you're shooting in the Sierra, you'll have a heck of a time finding a shot AA hasn't already taken.

You can buy your kit and shoot 8x10 on a budget.
That's what I've done, but I accept the fact that some items aren't worth skimping on.

I hope this helps!

[Pali K]

I had this gas when I got into LF and when the right opportunity came, I jumped into 8x10. I thought I would still shoot 4x5 primary but 4 months into it, I mostly shoot 8x10 now because the 8x10 ground glass is an addiction. I have also lost some weight since so I can't really complain about the extra weight.

[Gary Tarbert]

I have shot 5x4 8x10 and 5x8 , no gas problems or at least none that i am admitting to. With some of the processes you wish to try maybe 8x10 . It is all down to size weight and end use , Also DOF issues .If you backpack through challenging terrain maybe 5x4 , it is not the most popular LF format for no reason . With 8x10 you have heavier weight less DOF and more expensive films lenses and holders , If you are shooting only B&W maybe 5x7 is a good compromise . Xray film is something i have never had any interests in, So there may be others to advise here

[BILL3075]

Seize the moment!! G.A.S. up to 11x14..... 14x17, better still !!

[axs810]

I always felt 8x10 did something special for portraiture work but if you're shooting landscapes or anything else then just stick with 4x5. Just my opinion