One of the toughest challenges as a photographer is making a “large format” portrait. A large format portrait is the same as any other portrait, EXCEPT, that you use a view camera. Most view camera’s come in 4×5, 5×7 or 8×10 inch size. There are also 11×14 cameras as well, however there are very few in existence. A view camera, when used properly will produce spectacular results. Problem is, they are very hard to use. Biggest issue is, you can’t see your subject when taking the photo. Remember the “old time” photographs where the photographer gets behind the black drape? This is how a view camera is used. You open the lens, focus and compose your picture, then have to close the lens (making it un-viewable) and snap the shutter. If you have a cooperative subject, that doesn’t move too much, then you have a 50% chance of getting a good image. Why is that? Because imagine trying to drive “blind”. If you can’t see, it makes it that much more difficult. The key is practice. These large cameras can be very intimidating. Your subject must pay attention and listen closely to your direction. Capturing that “perfect moment” is much tougher when you can’t react immediately. But when you get the hang of it, the pristine quality is worth every bit of the trouble. A finished view camera image can be enlarged almost endlessly. The detail is second to none. Here are a two examples.
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The power of these images is amazing. It seems there really is no substitute for a large format camera for many kinds of work including portraiture…..
Norm, I agree. I love shooting large format, but boy is it tough. I love to really “work” with my subject, and it’s like using a cane. you just can’t go as fast.
But it’s worth it when you get a good image.
Paul
Film still has an important place in the photographic art world. The digital world has almost replaced film, but when you look at a large format film photo, it is like comparing an audio cd to a remastered vinyl recording. Not cost effective but well worth the extra effort and expense. I have never seen anything that can compare to a large format print.
I agree Mr. Diamond, One hundred percent!. Well said.
Great site Paul. A lot of useful information here. I’m sending it to some friends!
I used to shoot both 35mm film as well as an old Rollei. Never got to large format before being caught up in the tsunami of digital. Absolutely LOVE the quality of large format film, though I know that I’ll probably never work in that medium.
Toni, you should try it sometime. So challenging, but worth it when you see the final result!
Good story! This helped me alot in my college photo assignment. Thanks you for your information. Great Work!