Shooting with an 8x10 camera is a bit like entering an exclusive club—one that comes with high costs, steep learning curves, and some serious frustrations. But the rewards? They can be worth every bit of the hassle if you're up for the challenge.
Coming to you from Jason Kummerfeldt of grainydays, this entertaining video dives into the highs and lows of shooting with the Intrepid 8x10 Large Format Camera. This lightweight, cost-effective large format camera is a favorite for those looking to explore the world of 8x10 photography without going bankrupt. Kummerfeldt explains that the appeal of 8x10 lies in its incredible resolution and depth of field, which can create images that are nothing short of stunning. However, he also makes it clear that this format isn't for the faint of heart. The gear is heavy, the film is expensive, and the process is slow—often painfully so. But for those who love the ritual of film photography, the Intrepid offers a way to get into 8x10 without needing to remortgage your house.
The video is more than just a gear review; it's a real-world look at what it's like to use this camera in the field. Kummerfeldt doesn’t pull any punches as he takes the Intrepid out to shoot some landscapes. He mentions that while the camera is impressively light at around six pounds, its build quality leaves a bit to be desired. The use of 3D-printed parts and plywood helps keep costs down, but it also means the camera isn’t as sturdy as its more expensive counterparts. This is especially evident when trying to insert the large 8x10 film holders, which can be a bit of a struggle and sometimes shift the camera’s position, potentially ruining your shot. Despite these drawbacks, the camera’s simplicity and affordability make it a decent option for those new to large format photography.
Kummerfeldt also highlights one of the camera’s best features: the separate knobs for tilt and rise. These allow for precise adjustments, which is crucial when working with such large film. He notes that this feature is something even some more expensive cameras don’t have, making the Intrepid a surprisingly strong contender in this aspect. However, he does point out that the lack of a bail back system, which would make inserting film holders easier, is a significant downside. This omission might not bother everyone, but for those planning to shoot a lot with the Intrepid, it could become a frustrating limitation.
The video wraps up with Kummerfeldt’s thoughts on whether the Intrepid 8x10 is worth it. If you’re looking to dip your toes into 8x10 photography without a huge financial commitment, this camera could be the right choice. Just be prepared for some quirks and compromises along the way. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Kummerfeldt.
