starting to get afflicted

[jp]

It was cheap enough to pick up a speed graphic and I was a LF photographer.

Camera, accesories, lens CLA was all under $300. Then I got an enlarger for 4x5, which cost me $50 and a few hours. Then I needed some more chemicals, film, and paper. Then a second lens and some filters.

Then I wondered about taking my speed graphic up in the air, so I researched (thanks to the archives here and the rest of the Internet). I've avoided the expense of LF roll film and the weight of the surplus aerial camera. I decided I'd likely get a WWII combat graphic as it's bellows/standard would be protected from the wind by a metal shield. I ended up winning in auction a Gowland aerial 4x5 instead for substantially less than a combat graphic might go for. I will probably use it from a piper super cub with a window latched up, or stearman biplane a local air museum operates.

So far, I've got a fairly extensive and fascinating collection of working gear, and it's less expensive than a used DSLR, that would likely be outdated in a year or two.

[Steve Hamley]

So far, I've got a fairly extensive and fascinating collection of working gear, and it's less expensive than a used DSLR, that would likely be outdated in a year or two.

Tell me about it. I've had a printer die in less than a year, and my scanner is dying after about 5-6 years. Most people would think that's a decent life for a scanner, but what burns my biscuits is that I was trying to scan a negative from my 1920's vintage (or earlier) Eastman #2 whole plate camera, which still works just like the Great Yellow Father intended it to, after 90 years or more. And besides that, it looks good too.

Cheers, Steve

[Archphoto]

jp: we all seem to have that feeling, you just got yourself the LF bug.

And don't wory about the DSLR getting "outdated", it will be so when you say/think it is.

Good shooting !

Peter

[John Kasaian]

The Gowland aerial cameras rock! The 4x5 version also has a lens that is fast enough to reliably handle fixed wing airspeeds. I use mine (8x10 version) for night photography using the sports finder and a lightwieght tripod or "found" supports---it allows me to work (relatively) quick and unobtrusive. Have fun!

[brian d]

when you get your first speed graphic you cross the point of no return

[Wade D]

when you get your first speed graphic you cross the point of no return

Brian speaks the truth!

[jb7]

My habit is mostly under control.
If I found myself trading in my tripod for a piper super cub I might start to worry-

[jp]

I know better than to own a powerboat or plane! It would be fun, but I don't have the time or means presently.

[Michael Cienfuegos]

when you get your first speed graphic you cross the point of no return

I have found this to be the truth… and a problem. I now have three speed graphics, 2x3, 3x4 and 4x5. They are all pre-anniversary speeds, but they work and work well. A lot of fun to use. I also have been infected with the Graflex SLR bug. I have one 2x3 RB Series B, a 3x4 Auto-Graflex, 3x4 RB Series D and a 4x5 RB Series B. My digital camera is sitting on the shelf while I have fun with REAL cameras.

[brian d]

I also have been infected with the Graflex SLR bug.

yep, me too