Why Do I Large Format
Why Do I Large Format
This is a question that many wonder. With all of the capabilities of modern digital cameras, why would I spend too much time and money on film photography. This question comes even when talking about #35mm film. Even with #35mm film you get a bunch of raised eyes. Take the step up to #large-format photography and the cost and time invested grow exponentially as do the number of raised eyes.
When faced with this question, I'm not sure I have an answer...part of me things why do I even need a reason there is something about it that just feels right. But that seems a bit like an excuse, so lets try and break it down a bit more.
Of course the resolution is incredible and the depth of field is really something that is difficult to replicate (even in PhotoShop). These things are true and great but that's not what hooks me to it...that's not what makes it worth it to me.
What Makes it worth it...
There is definitely some magic to it. When using a #large-format view camera, I think the moment that really keeps me coming back is when I put my head under the dark cloth and first see it! That magic...that first look at the image on the ground glass! There is really nothing quite like it. The image almost seems to glow and have an almost surreal character.
The other thing that keeps drawing me back to #large-format photography is how intentional it is. The process isn't simple compared to a SmartPhone or other digital camera. It isn't simple compared to #35mm or #medium-format film photography. There is more equipment and the equipment is larger. It forces you to make conscious choices. I can't imagine a random snapshot with a #large-format camera. It must be an intentional act...the effort and the complexity require you to be present!
The other part of it Large Format photography that I enjoy is that when I set out with the idea to make images with my Large Format setup, I find that I am more focused and seeing things very differently. I think it is related to the fact that it must be intentional. I find that I look at things with a different eye or perspective. I'm thinking through what the image would look like on the film. Even if I don't have my Large Format camera with me, if I think it might be somewhere I would someday bring my Large Format camera to, I'm looking for those possibilities. Looking for the composition that I'd like and the thinking about when the light would be in the right location.
The act of the process also forces you to separate yourself a bit from the image. You have this significant kit that stands between you and the scene you want to capture. It takes you out of this current reality and transports you to a place where you can change control your the reality.
I'm still very much just learning how to shape the final image and how much choices will translate to the image that is rendered on the ground glass and then the film but it is a journey I very much enjoy.
These are my initial thoughts about what really hooks me on Large Format photography.
