How did the Asylum get its name?

We were on a photo outing to Starved Rock State Park in Illinois in January.  It was about 20 degrees outside and there was a fresh dusting of snow covering the ground (and trails and the hundreds of stone stairs).  Someone asked the question on our home page; "If a group of birds is a flock and a group of cows is a herd what do you call a group of large format photographers?"  The answer was obvious and it became the "official" name for the group!

What is large format photography?

Essentially it is photography using view cameras which make big negatives.  A more complete explanation is here.

How can I join this amazing group?

Check out our membership page!

Why is large format "better" than 35mm (or digital or medium format or anything else)?

Good question!  The question of which format is "better" depends on the subject matter.  Most large format photographs are made of objects that don't move much, such as landscapes, buildings etc.  For those subjects the advantages of large format are several.  First the negative is much larger than 35mm or medium format.  This means that bigger enlargements are possible, whether the enlargements are made optically with an enlarger or digitally with a scanner.

Second, especially in black and white, the photographer has complete control over how each individual negative is processed.  That gives the photographer a degree of control not generally possible with other formats.

Third, most large format cameras have "movements".  Movements mean that the "front standard" where the lens is mounted and the rear standard where the film is placed, can be moved or adjusted independently.  That let the photographer control things like "plane of focus", perspective and the relation of the lens to the film.  It really isn't as complicated as it sounds!

Is large format more expensive than 35mm, digital or medium format?

If you are purchasing new equipment large format is more expensive than 35mm, but less expensive than most medium format systems.  Digital covers such a wide range of cameras that direct cost comparison is difficult but top of the line large format cameras are less expensive than top of the line digital SLRs.  Of course one can purchase used equipment and by shopping carefully you can keep equipment costs in line.

Large format film is more expensive per shot than 35mm or medium format.  However large format requires one to work more slowly and carefully than with smaller formats so you will shoot fewer images per day on average.  You will also probably end up with a much higher percentage of "keepers" with large format so the cost per good image may be the same or even less.

What equipment do I need to get started in large format?

The minimum equipment set would consist of a tripod, a camera body, a lens, a dark cloth (or focusing cloth), some type of light meter (not strictly required but usually a good idea) and film holders.

Other things that would be good to have include a cable release for the shutter, some type of bag or back pack in which to carry your gear and other niceties such as filters.

Unlike other formats lenses in large format are not specific to any brand of camera.  With large format the camera is basically a stretchable box that keeps the dark from leaking out.  Lenses from any manufacturer can be mounted on any camera.  If you purchase an inexpensive camera you can buy quality lenses and not have to change lenses if you upgrade the camera.

What is a 'normal' lens in large format?

A 'normal' lens is generally thought of as one that gives approximately the same angle of view as the eye.  In 4x5 that means a lens of somewhere between 135mm and 150mm.  With the 8x10 format a 210mm lens is often considered 'normal'.

What is a good camera to start with in large format?

As with any format that is a tough question to answer as there are too many variables.  Are you planning to photograph 'in the field' and carry your gear or are you a studio photographer who will shoot inside?

If you are a studio shooter then a monorail camera may be the best choice for you.  Monorail cameras are generally heavier and bulkier than so-called field cameras but offer all the movements you could ask for.

If you primarily shoot in the field then a 'field camera' could be the best choice.  Field cameras can generally fold making them smaller and easier to carry.  The tradeoff is often the amount of bellows draw (which determines how close the camera can focus and the range of lenses you can use) and the number and range of camera movements.

Are there any good books about large format?

Using the View Camera by Steve Simmons is a good reference for beginners to large format.  It covers the types of cameras available, the gear that is necessary and what the movements on a view camera are for.

What is the best way to get started?

I may be biased but I think joining a group such as the Midwest Large Format Asylum is a great way to start.  You can talk with large format photographers of all stripes.  Studio, field, landscape, still life etc.  Attending an outing is a good way to get to see several different types of cameras in action.