For years, I had been shooting medium format and small format cameras. I was introduced to 4x5, 8x10, and larger format cameras when I got a job at a reproduction studio where I was hired to make large format images of original flat and 3-D artwork. My introduction to large format cameras inspired me to make a variety of 4x5 and 8x10 inch sheet film pinhole cameras. Eventually, I purchased my own 4x5 inch press camera and normal lens. I now own and use a 4x5 inch Calumet monorail view camera with 47/65/90/135mm lenses and about a dozen 4x5 inch film holders. I also use a 120 roll film back on my 4x5 camera.

Wow, this old opinionated video was one of the most insightful videos I’ve seen on large format photography. You are a killer instructor. I’ve been trying to wrap my head around these cameras, the optics, and more for six months and it’s been a chore. We need more guys like you. Thank you so much for doing this!

I inherited a Linhof technika 4 and LOVE it. I’m lucky in that the camera needed little elbow grease to get running. I have been collecting different parts for it to widen its use n the field. Glade to see your channel, keep up the good work. L/S

I’m definitely looking at a VX125 as my first 4x5. Can get find them for about the same price as an Intrepid, and the excess weight makes them rock solid, and everything being geared and measured makes it way more appealing for my sense of usability. Great to find your channel today

Thanks for making this - you're helping keep the field alive.

Cool. After watching this I found that same Calumet with a Wollensack lens and shutter. It’s hideously gorgeous but fully functional. The first thing I’m going to do with it is try to figure out a way to upgrade the rail system in order to make it more transportable and make it modular for outdoor use. Thanks for the inspiration.

Great video, keep em coming!

Great video! Thank you for your experience and talent

Great video! You know, the old Sinar F (for 'Field'!) is a very overlooked camera - lots of bits, lots of interchangeability, weighs a ton, but can compact down onto the 6" rail for travelling and they're built like trucks. I prefer carrying my Wista these days, but the old F and I took some decent photos.

Excellent video!

Found your great videos today. Seen several of them. I use my 4x5 to shoot 4x5 and 6x12. Have a odd camera, made of carbon and titanium, but it's still a beast, meant to do absolutely everything. Might search for a press camera, a companion to Mamiya 6MF and m43 digital cameras. Easy to carry around. Hope you do more videos.

Great video..many thanks

Looking forward to more videos

Thank You!

Great Video thanks. I also us rthe Toyo VX125 love this camera. I was able to get Sakai to make new extensions for my VX last year. Took 3 weeks and less than $80.!

thank you so much

I heard they're putting cameras in phones now.

That VX 125 is a wonder. Perhaps a corollary to your "use what you got" could be "use what makes your heart beat a little faster." More of those opinions, please. Nothing as instructive as experience.

The film is wayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy overpriced and digital can now achieve the same look 90%, save your money and get off the old skool film bandwagon and save cash. I was going 4x5 and film till i realized how much film , paper, chemicals cost, for what ? whats the point. There is now software that simulates film that looks so real and inkjet papers that look so dam real.

Mam toyo 45g. Jest wspaniala. Planuje kupic vx125