Large format describes photographic films, view cameras (including pinhole cameras) and processes that use a film or digital sensor the size of 4 x 5 inches or larger. The most common formats are 4 × 5 and 8 × 10 inches. Uncommon formats include quarter-plate, 5 × 7 inches, and 11 × 14 inches. The Polaroid 20 × 24 inch Instant Camera is the largest format camera currently in common usage, and can be hired from Polaroid agents in various countries. Many well-known photographers have used the 235-pound, wheeled-chassis Polaroid. Large Format Motion Picture cameras made by IMAX and Iwerks use perforated 70mm film. Although this is not large format in a still picture sense, it is certainly considered so for motion picture.

Most large-format cameras have adjustable fronts and backs that allow the photographer to better control perspective and depth of field. Architectural and close-up photographers in particular benefit greatly from this ability. Based on the Scheimpflug principle, these adjustments make it possible to solve photographic problems, and create effects, that would be impossible with a conventional fixed-plane camera. Ansel Adams' photographs demonstrate how the use of front (lens plane) and back (film plane) adjustments can secure great depth of field when using large format cameras.

A number of actions need to be taken when using a large format camera, resulting in a more contemplative photographic style. For example, film loading using double-sided Film Holders requires a changing bag or darkroom (although users of the most common format, 4 × 5, may now use Ready-Load pre-packaged film, which is more convenient than loading film holders). A tripod is essential for most view camera work. The scene is composed and then a film holder is slotted into the camera back prior to exposure. A separate Polaroid back using instant film is used by some photographers, allowing previewing of the composition, correctness of exposure and depth of field before committing to film to be developed later. Failure to "polaroid" an exposure risks discovery later, at the time of film development, that there was an error in camera setup.

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@andCKsays that's good to hear. I just ordered 3 bw's large format. I was impressed with all the options you get for sizes and paper.
dblizzy (Dan Rose) Sun, 06 Dec 2009 04:36:28 -0000
@andCKsays that's good to hear. I just ordered 3 bw's large format. I was impressed with all the options you get for sizes and paper.
Oh also: does anyone have any recommendations for large format (11x17) flatbed scanners? Or just a good scanner in general?
Cealdian (Anne Szabla) Sun, 06 Dec 2009 04:24:01 -0000
Oh also: does anyone have any recommendations for large format (11x17) flatbed scanners? Or just a good scanner in general?
New large format printer has arrived! I'm the happiest girl! *tear
saraeb (Sara) Sun, 06 Dec 2009 01:41:30 -0000
New large format printer has arrived! I'm the happiest girl! *tear
Getting ready to set up a new large format printer for creating illustration prints. Any recommendations on the best fine art media to use?
jproberts (jproberts) Sun, 06 Dec 2009 01:14:48 -0000
Getting ready to set up a new large format printer for creating illustration prints. Any recommendations on the best fine art media to use?
#photography Medium Format - The In-Between Platform - The Medium Format & Large Format photographic equipment can ... http://ow.ly/166YYN
enjoyestespark (Enjoy Estes Park) Sun, 06 Dec 2009 00:33:47 -0000
#photography Medium Format - The In-Between Platform - The Medium Format & Large Format photographic equipment can ... http://ow.ly/166YYN
#photography Medium Format - The In-Between Platform - The Medium Format & Large Format photographic equipment can ... http://ow.ly/166YYM
outdooreyes (Outdoor Eyes) Sun, 06 Dec 2009 00:33:47 -0000
#photography Medium Format - The In-Between Platform - The Medium Format & Large Format photographic equipment can ... http://ow.ly/166YYM

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