The Joy of Large Format Photography

While there are differences between micro four thirds, APS-C, full frame, and medium format, the general shooting experience of all those various sensor sizes is mostly the same. On the other hand, large format photography is an entirely different process and approach, but if you are willing to put in the time and effort to tackle the beast, you will be rewarded with incredible images unlike anything you have even seen before. This awesome video takes a look at the experience and its impact on how you shoot. 

Coming to you from Steve O'Nions, this great video takes a look at large format photography and its impact on how you approach the image-making process. If you thought medium format was big, large format is an entirely different beast, with 4x5 film offering negatives that are almost 15 times larger than full frame and 8x10 pushing that factor to almost 60, offering unparalleled levels of detail. The downsides of large format are the cost and specialized techniques it requires. Each 4x5 negative costs about $5 (which does not include the cost of development), so every single frame needs to be thought through very carefully. Check out the video above for the full rundown from O'Nions. 

Alex Cooke's picture

Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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Probably one of the most down-to-earth videos on film photography that I've seen on fstoppers. I can tell this guy has been doing this as long as I have. Only thing I'd say is don't go to cheap on a safety shot, dust is everywhere, and you spent some time getting there!