An obvious advantage with LF cameras is the size of the negative they produce.  The amount of detail captured on the large negative is incredible, but, more importantly, the extra film area allows for a superb tonal quality that cannot be reproduced in smaller formats, where the tones tend to get compressed.  LF has the space for the tones to 'breath'.

The ability to move the rear standard (which carries the film) and the front standard (which carries the lens) independently of each other allows a degree of control over aspects of the image which fixed body cameras cannot provide.  These movements allow control of elements such as perspective, plane of focus, and the shape of objects within the frame, at the picture taking stage.  Along with the traditional 5x4 format film, other formats can be used, including 6x12 and 6x17.  This versatility gives the photographer the opportunity to use a format best suited to their vision.

The large viewing screen and the intimate interior of the dark-cloth allow an engagement with the image which I have yet to experience with any other format.  Once under the cloth, any distractions are minimised, and the large 5x4 image projected on the glass screen, with its superb detail and depth, simply draws you in.  There's nothing else but you and your composition.

In addition, the upside-down, laterally reversed image allows you to better see the underlying structure of the composition.  Because most of the normal visual references are removed, the brain is less able to 'see' a picture, and more able to perceive the highlights, shadows, tones, shapes, lines and textures which form the structure of the image.

To quote one of LF's best exponents, Joe Cornish;

"There is a proper sense of occasion and significance setting up a big camera on a tripod. I liken it the process to a painter setting up a canvas on an easel, and working with paints and brushes, en plein air (as the impressionists described it). The process itself, with its laborious workflow, reinforces a sense of respect for photography and for the landscape. This in turn helps me make pictures that I feel do justice to the subject. It is impossible to snap, to take, to point and shoot and walk away".

Using an LF camera requires a different approach to your photography, both physically and mentally.  Many are put off by what they see as slow and laborious procedures, but to get the best from the system demands a meticulous and disciplined approach.  With a LF camera you don't take photographs, you make photographs.

My current LF outfit comprises the following;

• Ebony RW45 & RSW45 cameras
• 75mm F5.6 Nikon lens
• 90mm F6.8 Rodenstock lens
• 120mm F5.6 Schneider lens
• 150mm F5.6 Schneider lens
• 180mm F5.6 Schneider lens
• 240mm F9 Fuji lens

If you would like to know more about large format photography, the best place to start is at the Large Format Photography Home Page.  There's a link to the Ebony cameras website on our links page.