Kudos to you. I have exposed tons of 4 X 5 sheet film in my youth - mostly for money. One's mind set is totally different with these cameras than with roll film cameras. Movements in the camera open a whole new world in photography.
Hey Max.Really enjoyed your presentation. Your obvious enthusiasm and friendly relaxed approach is the perfect way to encourage others to fearlessly experiment with large format photography. It's clear that you are a photographer who realises that it is the images that matter most. In my opinion many experts focus on endless technical details rather than the essentials which get you started without risk of damaging equipment. I hope you will enjoy making superb LF portraits when you're ready.
Discovered your channel two days ago and could not be more pleased to find content I can relate to, learn from, and enjoy! Thank you for producing this wonderful series!
sorry to be off topic but does someone know a trick to log back into an instagram account? I was stupid lost the login password. I appreciate any tips you can offer me!
@Aldo Philip thanks for your reply. I found the site through google and Im trying it out now. Seems to take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
Beauiful location, and fantastic shots. I haven’t shot 4x5 in many years, but still have all my equipment. I love the Rollei Ortho 25, it’s an amaing film. Used it in one of my Rollei TLRs, metered in my head, and everyone loves the results. I was shooting one of the famous sites in San Antonio Texas. Love your channel, have been a subscriber for at least 2 years now, and I constantly cme back and watch many of your videos again and again. Keep doing what you’re doing, it’s absolutely perfect.
Just a small addition, most large format shutters have a focus button on them that opens the shutter independent of the speed set, so you can set your shutter speed, and still open the shutter to focus the camera. On the Compur shutters like on your Linhof it's the small lever to the right of the window that shows the set speed (as you look at the shutter from the front of the camera), you just press it down to open the shutter, pull it back up to close the shutter. On copal shutters it's a larger lever that slides (depending on the age of the shutter). Of course your method of setting the shutter to T also works!
Michael Schiller Thanks for your comment. Yes, that is completely correct. Our lever on this lens is broken and we therefore used this workaround. I should have mentioned that specifically. Thanks for pointing it out. :)
yes, and on the linhof this lever is called an 'Interuptor' (for their own shutters),you cock the shutter(on B,T), press the lever, then 'fire', the lever stops the shutter lever 1/2 stroke, not enough to re-close the shutter, then you can focus & compose, release the interuptor, the shutter completes its stroke, re-cock, then fire for real. The Copal shutter lever is a 'press_to_focus' lever, this independently opens the shutter blades, but there is a THIRD shutter type, called a 'dial_set', if I am not mistaken; looks like a clock face on the shutter; this MUST be on B or the german equivalent (M/Z/T) Z in this case, the Z is like a B setting, a spring acting on the shutter cable (DON'T cock in this mode!!-you will break something!!), T is a toggle switch action, one press to open/close; M is the timed mechanical system, ie: 1/4, 1/25th of a second, etc.
Great video. To any people really new to 5x4 the darkslide has two sides on the pull out section. Silver and black. You will notice that he turned the darkslide around before it was put back in otherwise after you can forget that you exposed the film. One of my shots on ig monoart69 called accident was just that two exposures on one film!! I have the linhof technica iv and you can attach different lens to the camera and the bellows pulls out to metal stops screwed down on the bed so your lens is set the correct distance from the ground glass. Not sure if it's the same on the technica 3. They are beautiful cameras to use and very heavy. Make sure you use a cable release when firing the shutter. You probably noticed that the camera was moving when the dark slide was inserted. A very sturdy tripod is needed. Good luck I'm sure anyone using it will be blown away by the quality.
I'm probably way more experienced than you in film photography, but I'm still really loving this channel. Your English is perfect, and your delivery is very cool and precise. Then add the excellent images and editing and it's quite a compelling package.
Dj Toman Thanks so much! And yes, I agree. There are a lot of people who are more experienced than I am. Nevertheless, I believe I can make a contribution by sharing my learning curve transparently and thus maybe help others (potentially less experienced) avoid similar mistakes. :)
I definitely enjoy your presentations. I trained on a graflex in the National Guard. I have 135 for tha last 40 years. I miss the large format. I also used a c220 for weddings in the 60- 70's.
I love Rollei Ortho 25! First shot it in San Antonio in one of my Rollei TLRs. Came out great. I'm planning on shooting this same spot next year, and may bring my 4x5 as well. Thanks for doing this.
Another great video my friend! I just recently started shooting large format as well, and I have been loving it! In fact I think after watching this Im going to focus on taking the 4x5 out this weekend for shooting! I really enjoy the Analog Insights series you have going here. Cheers
Super video, both of you: Great videography, commentary, images, and very educational for me..And I'd just mentioned my large format interest to you on your last video, Max. :) I hope you don't mind that I've added it to a new playlist. Thanks muchly.
Thanks for putting out this video and considering this video series. As a fan of your channel and someone who’s always been curious about shooting 4x5 large format, but never having the opportunity, it’s really encouraging to see the process effectively broken down and well-explained. It’s one thing to be fumbling around by yourself of course and learning as you go (always essential), but there’s a lot to be said for getting to “tag along” with even very experienced film shooters such as yourselves to see the challenges and successes you have along the way. I’m now more excited than ever to go and try 4x5 large format photography! Thanks for your continuing efforts to promote all the fun, learning, challenges and general fantastic-ness of film photography. Your videos a really are amazing and I look forward to each one of them.
I've been a big Linhof fan since the 70's when my photo instructor, Arthur Tausig, brought his Master Technika into classes. The images he got were outstanding, partially because of the equipment, mostly because Arthur is a great photographer.
I enjoyed this a lot. I have the chance soon to use a Sinar 4x5 and while I knew some of the theory behind the construction of these cameras, the lens operation and such, I was confused about how the film holders worked with the ground glass in the way; I had no idea it went in between! I'm going to look around for any videos you have about tilt/swing/rise/fall adjustments. Love the technical talk videos!
Thanks for your comment, Trevor. Great to hear that you're also just starting with large format cameras and that you have a chance to use a Sinar 4x5. Enjoy it! Unfortunately, my channel does not feature any additional large format videos just yet. But there is definitely more coming soon. :)
Hey Max love the channel! Just stumbled upon it. You're an incredibly likable individual seemingly devoid of any repulsive egocentricity which so many TH-camrs unfortunately posses. Love the videos and keep going!
Davy Mike Thanks so much for your kind comment. I really appreciate it. Well, I’m actually an introvert and putting myself out there in these videos was quite a challenge initially (feels better by now). There aren’t many introverted TH-camrs obviously. Take a look at Sean Tucker’s channel if you’d like to see another one. :)
Hello Max et al, Interesting video on 4x5 and 'blad use. Cleanly done. However, you glossed over quite a bit of info. Are you going to make another video to go over the finer points of large and medium format usage? Hope so. Best wishes, NL.
In the third image, you probably didn't need to point the camera upward. This is one of the benefits of using large format. If that was the case, you could have keep the lines parallel by applying a front tilt and a back tilt to keep the film plane parallel.
It is interesting that people are still using film cameras, especially LF now that digital is so easy. The drawback is I'm seeing a lot of pictures of buildings in magazines that are distorted because the buildings lean into the center of the picture, where as with a LF that can be corrected. Also, you see shots where the objects up close are fuzzy while the distant objects are in focus. Another advantage of having a camera with a tiltible lens board.
Hi guys, I always enjoy your videos, great job. I noticed you use modern film holders on a Technika III. What kind of back did you adapt to this camera? Thank you
I realise I would need a different rear standard to use this Graflock. I’ll stick to the metal one-film Kassette and later buy a more modern 4x5”. Danke, MfG
Bro this is an outstanding presentation, and introduction to these older film cameras. believe me, I know the amount of time and effort. It takes to shoot edit and narrate something like this good job.
Thanks so much for your kind feedback. We really appreciate it! :) You should see us. We are both pretty calm and slowed down. ;) Beste Grüße aus München!
Loved the video, especially the perspectives between LF & MF...I've yet to try the Rollei films, although I suspect they yield results similar to the old "agfapan 25"...Keep up the great work :)
I really appreciated this video, it was very inspiring! I have a Wista 4x5, but I have never really learned all the moments, I find those very difficult, and I get frustrated and loose my creative moments, because of the difficulties using the camera. Do you have any tips for that? Or can you show that in another video? Many thanks 🙏
When using twin lens reflex cameras,the reversed image can be disorienting to some.By focusing crisply on the groundglass and then raising the camera to frame and shoot using the iron frame 'sports finder'remedies this.When using 4×5 cameras ,whose groundglass image is both reversed and upside-down carrying a piece of matt board with a 4×5 hole cut in it to peer through may help reorient both image and photographer.Hope this helps.Well done again Max.
Good point on a regular 4x5. Actually, the Linhof has an optical finder that can be attached on the top of the camera. It also has the option of putting on a wire frame finder that was often used on press cameras. Since I can't afford a Linhof, I have a Busch Pressman Model D (circa 1960) that has a ground glass, rangefinder, optical finder and a wire frame finder. I use all four at one point or another. Very convenient.
Hi, ich habe auch eine alte Linhof Technika (geerbt), weiss aber nicht genau, wie ich den Rollfilmhalter montieren soll? Hättest du dazu ieinen Tipp? Ich kann nämlich online nichts dazu finden! 😭
Very interesting video. The building is just incredible. Must be a replica of the Parthenon in Athens. If I ever get to Germany, I will want to visit it. I would like to make several points. It appears, that you did not use any of the tilts or movements on the Technika. I would have used the rangefinder. That is what makes a Technika so versitle. Last year I got into large format 4x5 and ended up with a Busch Pressman Model D. I am very happy with it. It is all metal like a Technika but much smaller and lighter and much less expensive - probably about a quarter of the price if that. Hey I am retired. It is often called "An American Technika." It has more movements than the average press camera of the era AND a rangefinder as most press cameras have. I thought I would be using the ground glass a lot but find that I actually mostly use the rangefinder. it is accurate enough unless you are focusing up close or are using one of the lens movements such as on a building. Thanks again, for an enjoyable video.
Hi Max, I recently bought a Linhof III Model 5 that ha S already the Linhof IV back and lid but has unfortunately the old Linhof III front with the little lens plate and front hole that is too small for some modern lenses like a Fuji 90mm 5,6 I bought. It seems that your camera is a Linhof III model 3 or 4 that doesn't have the modern back and lid but it seem also that the Technika III front has been modified to the Technika IV standard that accepts bigger fatter lenses on the most recent bigger plates ? Do you please have informations how to modify the front to the Technika IV standard ? This should be easy for you as you live in the Linhof town 😊 Thank you, regards JC
Thanks for this! (From Long Island, NY). I own a Linhof Super Technika IV (built in 1957) so I empathize. I DO recommend you use a cable release though! Subscribed!
Hello Max, Isn't 4 X 5 fun? I enjoyed your images. How about now going to the Minox ultra miniature camera and doing a shoot with these little jewels of precision?
Very nice to see this "slow cooking" process with the Linhof camera. I wonder why you didn't use a cable release? Seems like a good thing to do to ensure maximum quality.
Thanks for your kind comment, Patrick. I probably should have mentioned in the video that the thread to attach the cable release on this lens is a bit broken. This is why we could't use a regular cable release. But of course you are right. Usually one should use a cable release to ensure that the camera remains absolutely still while the shot is taken.
also, could you have used a 1 second exposure, compensating for light with aperture of coarse, giving an effect like old time L.F. photographers used (the long exp. time reduces any felt vibration, in fact, it peters out while the shutter is still open, giving a still image).
I love this video! thanks a lot for the information coz I've been thinking myself about shooting large format and this video makes it easier to get my head around it :p
Fantastic images (you must have the patience of a saint)... I'm a digital shooter but can really appreciate the film aspect of photography... I find your channel interesting also because I was born in Germany 🙂📷
great video! thank you for sharing. Also, instead of setting to 320 iso could you have just used a slower shutter speed? Another question, why would you pull the ISO to 320 and not push it to say 800? Thank you!!!
Thanks for your comment, Kevin, and please excuse my late response. Please note that there is a difference between "rating" your film at a certain ISO like we did with our ISO 320 instead of 400 in order to get some more light onto the film and actually "pushing/pulling" the film which happens during development. So for instance it is quite common to "rate" certain color negative films like Kodak Porta 400 or Fuji Pro 400H at ISO 200 or even ISO 100 and then developing them in the standard C-41 process, so just as if they were shot at ISO 400. This results in a particular look and (if the light is right) some nice color shifts. In contrast, with pushing/pulling film there is usually a connection of rating your film to a certain ISO (like a Kodak Tri-X to ISO 1600 for instance) and then actually developing it in accordance to that rating longer/differently. I hope this helps.
Nice vid! Great cameras. JMHO, but I always shoot ASA 100 & I usually take incident readings. I find 400 to be too fast unless night shooting. Also, that shutter should allow focusing with the aperture set and shutter speed dialed.
Thanks for your comment. Yes, the shutter allows to do that but the viewfinder naturally gets quite dark when you close the aperture. Furthermore, as this lens does have a dedicated function to keep the shutter open, we had to use the T mode on the lens for it. :)
as people have said, CABLE-RELEASE, you jar the camera if you touch the lever! ALSO IMPORTANT points: 1) film holder technique, press the ground-glass into the camera when you pull the slide out, it stops the whole holder from being moved off of the camera seals, and letting light into the holder, ruining your film :-) . 2)General tips, with all cameras of this format (L F in particular) LOCK all movements/ focus knobs!! or the perspective/focus/ image shape( back film plane[back standard]) will shift when you insert the film holder, or remove the dark-slide. 3) if you are unsure if anything will move on you during exposure, place a hand on the tripod spider, on TOP and press downwards! it puts added friction on the tripod legs, screws etc, giving a solid setup.
Alex Bujorianu No, the film was loaded correctly. I decided to cut the corners on my photos while you can still see them in Jules’s photos. By now, I’m also always leaving them in. To me, they make up a part of the beautiful 4x5 inch look.
Liked! Comments: 1. After you pull the bellows out, don't you have to lock the bellows to the focus rack? 2. I'd tell users to close the lens shutter before pulling the dark slide from the film holder. Also that the image on the ground glass will be reversed and upside down. 3. Also to point out that the 4x5 has back and front movements which will keep, for instance, the pillars of the building looking vertical and parallel. 4. Your video camera & shooter did a good job of handling the light and framing things nicely. What camera do you use? Kudos! You have a pleasant manner and voice. I'll look for more of your videos! Auf wiedersehen!
Thanks for your kind comment, Ken! I am carrying the messenger bag that my friend Jules owns since his Hasselblad fits perfectly in there. It is an Olympus OM-D messenger bag that you can find here: www.olympus-europa.com/site/en/c/cameras_accessories/pen_om_d_cameras_accessories/pen_om_d_cases_straps/om_d_messenger_leather_bag/index.html Inside of the bag is a Monochrom Anybag 50 that serves well to protect your gear. The Anybags come in all sorts of sizes and also let you easily turn a regular messenger bag into a camera bag. You only need to find one that fits both your camera(s) and your existing bag. Hope that helps!
Thanks for your kind feedback. We really appreciate it. If you're interested in the Ortho 25, you might want to take a look at our dedicated film review video on the channel here: th-cam.com/video/j1Gv2zGhKUM/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for your comment. Sorry, I am not really in a position to give "recommendations" yet. From what I understand, you cannot go wrong with a Linhof Technika or Sinar P or F but there are also some Chinese manufacturers who apparently offer high quality large format cameras that are a bit less expensive. As usual, the lens plays a crucial role. Thanks to the modularity of the large format camera system, you have plenty of choices and should put some thought into that. If you're interested in something "hand-held" (in the widest sense of the word), you might want to take a look at the Graflex Speed series. That is as "portable" as large format gets so far. But there is a Kickstarter campaign for a much smaller, portable 4x5 camera that you might want to take a look at: www.kickstarter.com/projects/wanderlust/travelwide-45-camera Hope this helps. :)
would u talk little about thr sharpness that benefits from the extra large 4x5 film when compare to those 120 film? i think it will be more convincing for us to invest on large format, thank you !
Why do people always worry about overexposing? Overexposing means when you forget your settings from having shot inside at 1/50th f/4 on 400 speed and you shoot outside, that's drastic, but shooting half a stop difference is absolutely nothing.
got a linhof (super) technika III just arrived in the mail I've also got ADOX and KODAK sheet film But can't really shoot them yet because... Nobody told me Linhof's tripod threads are larger than my other cameras... what a rookie's thing to say :)))))
I squirmed when I saw him push the shutter button with his finger. After all the work to focus and set up a shot, use a shutter cable!! Might as well. They aren't expensive, it's just more stability.
I did too, but because you did not shut the shutter from the focusing step, in 'T' the shutter REMAINS open UNTIL you hit the lever OR take the ring off the 't' setting, was worried you'd wasted your sheet of film!!
You can hang your camera bag on the tripod for even more stability, especially if there is wind. Some unfortunate photographers see their large format cameras fall over in a gust of wind if left unattended. Ouch! Other recommended items are lens hood and lens filters for black and white photography.
How to shoot a large format camera? Point aim and pull the guns trigger. That wasn’t so hard. Oh! You meant how do you shoot WITH a large format camera.
you try indeed but this is not what i call a how to video... first the filming camera is so far away from what youre pointing to and doing and second you make references to thing you need to do but you don't really show how it's done, particularly with so many variables in large format... you should watch it yourself and try to update... thanks
I am really sorry to hear that. Obviously we don’t intend to be associated with any political ads and US politics in general. Unfortunately, I cannot really fine-tune what the algorithm shows you and what not.
The title should be "How NOT to shoot a large format camera". Man, go learn something about technical cameras and you'll agree this is a waste of time, film and equipment. Post a new video when you have learned, at least, the basics of large format photography It's not about a larger negative (you won't print so big) or about slowing down the process (you could slow down your digital camera process by drinking a cup of coffee between setting up the camera and pressing the shutter. And yes, serious photographers use the meter in digital).
MrAntonioCastanheira Maybe you should take the time to watch some of my other videos before making such a comment. I’m actually still in the process of learning how to shoot large format and point that out explicitly in the beginning of the video (the video shows my second time ever). I’m not claiming to have any experience or teach how it is correct. Plus, I use my light meter all the time, regardless which format I shoot. 🙄
Thank you so much for sharing this incredible work of art…
Kudos to you. I have exposed tons of 4 X 5 sheet film in my youth - mostly for money. One's mind set is totally different with these cameras than with roll film cameras. Movements in the camera open a whole new world in photography.
Hey Max.Really enjoyed your presentation. Your obvious enthusiasm and friendly relaxed approach is the perfect way to encourage others to fearlessly experiment with large format photography. It's clear that you are a photographer who realises that it is the images that matter most.
In my opinion many experts focus on endless technical details rather than the essentials which get you started without risk of damaging equipment. I hope you will enjoy making superb LF portraits when you're ready.
Discovered your channel two days ago and could not be more pleased to find content I can relate to, learn from, and enjoy! Thank you for producing this wonderful series!
Thanks so much for your wonderful comment. Makes us very happy to read this. Glad you enjoy our channel! :)
What a beauty the Hasselblad 501C is!
Brilliant! Loved seeing the process along with the results.
Thanks a lot for your feedback. We (Jules and I) really appreciate it since we are still figuring out what works best. :)
Beautiful! Please do more of these vlog/tutorial/review videos!
Thanks so much for your kind feedback. Will do. :)
Fascinating!
Truly impressed by commitment and preview images, look forward to seeing the final ones
sorry to be off topic but does someone know a trick to log back into an instagram account?
I was stupid lost the login password. I appreciate any tips you can offer me!
@Gannon Grant Instablaster =)
@Aldo Philip thanks for your reply. I found the site through google and Im trying it out now.
Seems to take quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.
@Aldo Philip It did the trick and I actually got access to my account again. Im so happy:D
Thanks so much, you saved my account :D
@Gannon Grant Glad I could help xD
7:30 absolutely loved this shot... soft, nostalgic feeling, very pleasing shadows and a landscape piece, like a window to another realm
Agreed!
Great - I'm getting my MPP 4x5 out this weekend fir some much needed use. Lovely video.
Very interesting story and video !!
Can't wait to see more large format stuff !
Thanks a lot! Jules and I will try to provide some more large format videos in the future. :)
Beauiful location, and fantastic shots. I haven’t shot 4x5 in many years, but still have all my equipment. I love the Rollei Ortho 25, it’s an amaing film. Used it in one of my Rollei TLRs, metered in my head, and everyone loves the results. I was shooting one of the famous sites in San Antonio Texas.
Love your channel, have been a subscriber for at least 2 years now, and I constantly cme back and watch many of your videos again and again. Keep doing what you’re doing, it’s absolutely perfect.
Just a small addition, most large format shutters have a focus button on them that opens the shutter independent of the speed set, so you can set your shutter speed, and still open the shutter to focus the camera. On the Compur shutters like on your Linhof it's the small lever to the right of the window that shows the set speed (as you look at the shutter from the front of the camera), you just press it down to open the shutter, pull it back up to close the shutter. On copal shutters it's a larger lever that slides (depending on the age of the shutter). Of course your method of setting the shutter to T also works!
Michael Schiller Thanks for your comment. Yes, that is completely correct. Our lever on this lens is broken and we therefore used this workaround. I should have mentioned that specifically. Thanks for pointing it out. :)
yes, and on the linhof this lever is called an 'Interuptor' (for their own shutters),you cock the shutter(on B,T), press the lever, then 'fire', the lever stops the shutter lever 1/2 stroke, not enough to re-close the shutter, then you can focus & compose, release the interuptor, the shutter completes its stroke, re-cock, then fire for real.
The Copal shutter lever is a 'press_to_focus' lever, this independently opens the shutter blades, but there is a THIRD shutter type, called a 'dial_set', if I am not mistaken; looks like a clock face on the shutter; this MUST be on B or the german equivalent (M/Z/T) Z in this case, the Z is like a B setting, a spring acting on the shutter cable (DON'T cock in this mode!!-you will break something!!), T is a toggle switch action, one press to open/close; M is the timed mechanical system, ie: 1/4, 1/25th of a second, etc.
Great video! I like your style and I think a portrait series with large format will be very cool! Keep up the good work!
Thanks a lot for you kind comment, Christian. I intend to start this project soon and do it over the winter. Let's see. :)
Great video. To any people really new to 5x4 the darkslide has two sides on the pull out section. Silver and black. You will notice that he turned the darkslide around before it was put back in otherwise after you can forget that you exposed the film. One of my shots on ig monoart69 called accident was just that two exposures on one film!! I have the linhof technica iv and you can attach different lens to the camera and the bellows pulls out to metal stops screwed down on the bed so your lens is set the correct distance from the ground glass. Not sure if it's the same on the technica 3. They are beautiful cameras to use and very heavy. Make sure you use a cable release when firing the shutter. You probably noticed that the camera was moving when the dark slide was inserted. A very sturdy tripod is needed. Good luck I'm sure anyone using it will be blown away by the quality.
Oh man, this was terrific! It takes Photography to a new level.
Rick Mentore Thanks for your kind comment. I really appreciate it. This is photography in a very basic form. :)
10:15 is very, *very* good. You nailed those lines
Nice one! Yes, definitely more of this would be welcomed!
Very enjoyable to watch. Great images too.
Thanks so much. We really appreciate your kind comment. :)
I'm probably way more experienced than you in film photography, but I'm still really loving this channel. Your English is perfect, and your delivery is very cool and precise. Then add the excellent images and editing and it's quite a compelling package.
Dj Toman Thanks so much!
And yes, I agree. There are a lot of people who are more experienced than I am. Nevertheless, I believe I can make a contribution by sharing my learning curve transparently and thus maybe help others (potentially less experienced) avoid similar mistakes. :)
I definitely enjoy your presentations. I trained on a graflex in the National Guard. I have 135 for tha last 40 years. I miss the large format. I also used a c220 for weddings in the 60- 70's.
This video brings back memories
I love Rollei Ortho 25! First shot it in San Antonio in one of my Rollei TLRs. Came out great. I'm planning on shooting this same spot next year, and may bring my 4x5 as well. Thanks for doing this.
Thanks for your comment, Joe. Sounds like an amazing plan. Enjoy shooting 4x5. :)
Another great video my friend! I just recently started shooting large format as well, and I have been loving it! In fact I think after watching this Im going to focus on taking the 4x5 out this weekend for shooting! I really enjoy the Analog Insights series you have going here. Cheers
Super video, both of you: Great videography, commentary, images, and very educational for me..And I'd just mentioned my large format interest to you on your last video, Max. :) I hope you don't mind that I've added it to a new playlist. Thanks muchly.
Thanks a lot for your comment, Philip. As always, I really appreciate it.
I certainly don't mind if the video shows up in a playlist. ;)
Thanks for putting out this video and considering this video series. As a fan of your channel and someone who’s always been curious about shooting 4x5 large format, but never having the opportunity, it’s really encouraging to see the process effectively broken down and well-explained. It’s one thing to be fumbling around by yourself of course and learning as you go (always essential), but there’s a lot to be said for getting to “tag along” with even very experienced film shooters such as yourselves to see the challenges and successes you have along the way. I’m now more excited than ever to go and try 4x5 large format photography! Thanks for your continuing efforts to promote all the fun, learning, challenges and general fantastic-ness of film photography. Your videos a really are amazing and I look forward to each one of them.
Great photos!
Beautiful quality video, thanks for posting. I would like to see more LF photography.
Thanks for your feedback. Sure, will do. :)
I've been a big Linhof fan since the 70's when my photo instructor, Arthur Tausig, brought his Master Technika into classes. The images he got were outstanding, partially because of the equipment, mostly because Arthur is a great photographer.
I enjoyed this a lot. I have the chance soon to use a Sinar 4x5 and while I knew some of the theory behind the construction of these cameras, the lens operation and such, I was confused about how the film holders worked with the ground glass in the way; I had no idea it went in between! I'm going to look around for any videos you have about tilt/swing/rise/fall adjustments. Love the technical talk videos!
Thanks for your comment, Trevor. Great to hear that you're also just starting with large format cameras and that you have a chance to use a Sinar 4x5. Enjoy it! Unfortunately, my channel does not feature any additional large format videos just yet. But there is definitely more coming soon. :)
Hey Max love the channel! Just stumbled upon it. You're an incredibly likable individual seemingly devoid of any repulsive egocentricity which so many TH-camrs unfortunately posses. Love the videos and keep going!
Davy Mike Thanks so much for your kind comment. I really appreciate it. Well, I’m actually an introvert and putting myself out there in these videos was quite a challenge initially (feels better by now). There aren’t many introverted TH-camrs obviously. Take a look at Sean Tucker’s channel if you’d like to see another one. :)
Very informative video on the large format camera and film, not sure I have that much patience to use those ..... well maybe will try once, just once
Loved this video, wonderfully presented.
Thanks a lot for your comment, Mark. Really appreciate it. :)
Hello Max et al, Interesting video on 4x5 and 'blad use. Cleanly done. However, you glossed over quite a bit of info. Are you going to make another video to go over the finer points of large and medium format usage? Hope so. Best wishes, NL.
In the third image, you probably didn't need to point the camera upward. This is one of the benefits of using large format. If that was the case, you could have keep the lines parallel by applying a front tilt and a back tilt to keep the film plane parallel.
great video, brings back many good memories
It is interesting that people are still using film cameras, especially LF now that digital is so easy. The drawback is I'm seeing a lot of pictures of buildings in magazines that are distorted because the buildings lean into the center of the picture, where as with a LF that can be corrected. Also, you see shots where the objects up close are fuzzy while the distant objects are in focus. Another advantage of having a camera with a tiltible lens board.
Word. :)
Beautiful camera 😎 thanks for the video!
Great video and shots, well done.
Thanks a lot. :)
The Linhof is such a beautiful camera...
Hi guys, I always enjoy your videos, great job. I noticed you use modern film holders on a Technika III. What kind of back did you adapt to this camera?
Thank you
That is an international or Graflok back. I hope this helps. Thank you for your kind feedback.
I realise I would need a different rear standard to use this Graflock. I’ll stick to the metal one-film Kassette and later buy a more modern 4x5”. Danke, MfG
Bro this is an outstanding presentation, and introduction to these older film cameras. believe me, I know the amount of time and effort. It takes to shoot edit and narrate something like this good job.
Thanks a lot. :)
This video inspires me a lot, thank you!
Beautiful video.
I like the videos you guys are making. Such a calm slowed down and narrative as film photography itself. VG aus HH! ;)
Thanks so much for your kind feedback. We really appreciate it! :) You should see us. We are both pretty calm and slowed down. ;) Beste Grüße aus München!
Really nice works!
Loved the video, especially the perspectives between LF & MF...I've yet to try the Rollei films, although I suspect they yield results similar to the old "agfapan 25"...Keep up the great work :)
Thanks for your kind comment. :)
I really appreciated this video, it was very inspiring!
I have a Wista 4x5, but I have never really learned all the moments, I find those very difficult, and I get frustrated and loose my creative moments, because of the difficulties using the camera. Do you have any tips for that? Or can you show that in another video?
Many thanks 🙏
When using twin lens reflex cameras,the reversed image can be disorienting to some.By focusing crisply on the groundglass and then raising the camera to frame and shoot using the iron frame 'sports finder'remedies this.When using 4×5 cameras ,whose groundglass image is both reversed and upside-down carrying a piece of matt board with a 4×5 hole cut in it to peer through may help reorient both image and photographer.Hope this helps.Well done again Max.
Good point on a regular 4x5. Actually, the Linhof has an optical finder that can be attached on the top of the camera. It also has the option of putting on a wire frame finder that was often used on press cameras. Since I can't afford a Linhof, I have a Busch Pressman Model D (circa 1960) that has a ground glass, rangefinder, optical finder and a wire frame finder. I use all four at one point or another. Very convenient.
Hi, ich habe auch eine alte Linhof Technika (geerbt), weiss aber nicht genau, wie ich den Rollfilmhalter montieren soll? Hättest du dazu ieinen Tipp? Ich kann nämlich online nichts dazu finden! 😭
The acoustic song link is broken. I’d love to know what the song is because it’s so great! Please help!!
Very interesting video. The building is just incredible. Must be a replica of the Parthenon in Athens. If I ever get to Germany, I will want to visit it. I would like to make several points. It appears, that you did not use any of the tilts or movements on the Technika. I would have used the rangefinder. That is what makes a Technika so versitle. Last year I got into large format 4x5 and ended up with a Busch Pressman Model D. I am very happy with it. It is all metal like a Technika but much smaller and lighter and much less expensive - probably about a quarter of the price if that. Hey I am retired. It is often called "An American Technika." It has more movements than the average press camera of the era AND a rangefinder as most press cameras have. I thought I would be using the ground glass a lot but find that I actually mostly use the rangefinder. it is accurate enough unless you are focusing up close or are using one of the lens movements such as on a building. Thanks again, for an enjoyable video.
Hi Max, I recently bought a Linhof III Model 5 that ha S already the Linhof IV back and lid but has unfortunately the old Linhof III front with the little lens plate and front hole that is too small for some modern lenses like a Fuji 90mm 5,6 I bought.
It seems that your camera is a Linhof III model 3 or 4 that doesn't have the modern back and lid but it seem also that the Technika III front has been modified to the Technika IV standard that accepts bigger fatter lenses on the most recent bigger plates ?
Do you please have informations how to modify the front to the Technika IV standard ?
This should be easy for you as you live in the Linhof town 😊
Thank you, regards JC
You inspired me to take out my 4X5 and dust off the cobwebs and put it to good use. Nothing beats the image quality of large format.
Sidney Pratt why does it have cobwebs!!
Thanks for this! (From Long Island, NY). I own a Linhof Super Technika IV (built in 1957) so I empathize. I DO recommend you use a cable release though!
Subscribed!
You’re a great presenter. I have a linhof on order, so this was useful.
Hello Max, Isn't 4 X 5 fun? I enjoyed your images. How about now going to the Minox ultra miniature camera and doing a shoot with these little jewels of precision?
Very nice to see this "slow cooking" process with the Linhof camera. I wonder why you didn't use a cable release? Seems like a good thing to do to ensure maximum quality.
Thanks for your kind comment, Patrick. I probably should have mentioned in the video that the thread to attach the cable release on this lens is a bit broken. This is why we could't use a regular cable release. But of course you are right. Usually one should use a cable release to ensure that the camera remains absolutely still while the shot is taken.
also, could you have used a 1 second exposure, compensating for light with aperture of coarse, giving an effect like old time L.F. photographers used (the long exp. time reduces any felt vibration, in fact, it peters out while the shutter is still open, giving a still image).
Gut gemacht!
I love this video! thanks a lot for the information coz I've been thinking myself about shooting large format and this video makes it easier to get my head around it :p
The hasselblad photos are magnificent!
Thanks a lot! We really appreciate it. :)
Fantastic images (you must have the patience of a saint)... I'm a digital shooter but can really appreciate the film aspect of photography... I find your channel interesting also because I was born in Germany 🙂📷
Thanks so much for your kind words. Yes, it does require some patience. I always perceive it as a an exercise for character building. :)
MAX+ONE Portrait Photography maybe I'll get there one day lol
great video! thank you for sharing. Also, instead of setting to 320 iso could you have just used a slower shutter speed?
Another question, why would you pull the ISO to 320 and not push it to say 800?
Thank you!!!
Thanks for your comment, Kevin, and please excuse my late response. Please note that there is a difference between "rating" your film at a certain ISO like we did with our ISO 320 instead of 400 in order to get some more light onto the film and actually "pushing/pulling" the film which happens during development. So for instance it is quite common to "rate" certain color negative films like Kodak Porta 400 or Fuji Pro 400H at ISO 200 or even ISO 100 and then developing them in the standard C-41 process, so just as if they were shot at ISO 400. This results in a particular look and (if the light is right) some nice color shifts. In contrast, with pushing/pulling film there is usually a connection of rating your film to a certain ISO (like a Kodak Tri-X to ISO 1600 for instance) and then actually developing it in accordance to that rating longer/differently.
I hope this helps.
Hi guys. Did you do the Linhof portrait series in the end?
jodad Yes, of course. Check the „Story behind the Shoot“ episode on bedroom portraits for more. :)
Nice vid! Great cameras. JMHO, but I always shoot ASA 100 & I usually take incident readings. I find 400 to be too fast unless night shooting. Also, that shutter should allow focusing with the aperture set and shutter speed dialed.
Thanks for your comment. Yes, the shutter allows to do that but the viewfinder naturally gets quite dark when you close the aperture. Furthermore, as this lens does have a dedicated function to keep the shutter open, we had to use the T mode on the lens for it. :)
as people have said, CABLE-RELEASE, you jar the camera if you touch the lever!
ALSO IMPORTANT points:
1) film holder technique, press the ground-glass into the camera when you pull the slide out, it stops the whole holder from being moved off of the camera seals, and letting light into the holder, ruining your film :-) .
2)General tips, with all cameras of this format (L F in particular) LOCK all movements/ focus knobs!! or the perspective/focus/ image shape( back film plane[back standard]) will shift when you insert the film holder, or remove the dark-slide.
3) if you are unsure if anything will move on you during exposure, place a hand on the tripod spider, on TOP and press downwards! it puts added friction on the tripod legs, screws etc, giving a solid setup.
Great video! Please make more video with the LINHOF :)
The corners are cut off on the large format photos. Did you load the film correctly? Or was this a mishap in development?
Alex Bujorianu No, the film was loaded correctly. I decided to cut the corners on my photos while you can still see them in Jules’s photos. By now, I’m also always leaving them in. To me, they make up a part of the beautiful 4x5 inch look.
Nice project
Liked!
Comments: 1. After you pull the bellows out, don't you have to lock the bellows to the focus rack?
2. I'd tell users to close the lens shutter before pulling the dark slide from the film holder. Also that the image on the ground glass will be reversed and upside down.
3. Also to point out that the 4x5 has back and front movements which will keep, for instance, the pillars of the building looking vertical and parallel.
4. Your video camera & shooter did a good job of handling the light and framing things nicely. What camera do you use? Kudos!
You have a pleasant manner and voice. I'll look for more of your videos! Auf wiedersehen!
A cable release is probably a good idea.
beautiful video, well done! May I ask what brand is your messenger bag in beginning of the video? Looks very nice.
Thanks for your kind comment, Ken! I am carrying the messenger bag that my friend Jules owns since his Hasselblad fits perfectly in there. It is an Olympus OM-D messenger bag that you can find here:
www.olympus-europa.com/site/en/c/cameras_accessories/pen_om_d_cameras_accessories/pen_om_d_cases_straps/om_d_messenger_leather_bag/index.html
Inside of the bag is a Monochrom Anybag 50 that serves well to protect your gear. The Anybags come in all sorts of sizes and also let you easily turn a regular messenger bag into a camera bag. You only need to find one that fits both your camera(s) and your existing bag. Hope that helps!
Nice video, very informative on how the large format works, that ortho 25 looks interesting, how do you develop it - interesting place too :))
Thanks for your kind feedback. We really appreciate it. If you're interested in the Ortho 25, you might want to take a look at our dedicated film review video on the channel here: th-cam.com/video/j1Gv2zGhKUM/w-d-xo.html
Awesome Max. I want to try large format also. Any camera recommendations?
Thanks for your comment. Sorry, I am not really in a position to give "recommendations" yet. From what I understand, you cannot go wrong with a Linhof Technika or Sinar P or F but there are also some Chinese manufacturers who apparently offer high quality large format cameras that are a bit less expensive.
As usual, the lens plays a crucial role. Thanks to the modularity of the large format camera system, you have plenty of choices and should put some thought into that.
If you're interested in something "hand-held" (in the widest sense of the word), you might want to take a look at the Graflex Speed series. That is as "portable" as large format gets so far. But there is a Kickstarter campaign for a much smaller, portable 4x5 camera that you might want to take a look at:
www.kickstarter.com/projects/wanderlust/travelwide-45-camera
Hope this helps. :)
Thanks Max for taking the time to provide some advice and also thank you for your wonderful videos and photographs.
would u talk little about thr sharpness that benefits from the extra large 4x5 film when compare to those 120 film? i think it will be more convincing for us to invest on large format, thank you !
I am also a Linhof and Hasselblad user, and really enjoying your presentations. Thank you.
Why do people always worry about overexposing? Overexposing means when you forget your settings from having shot inside at 1/50th f/4 on 400 speed and you shoot outside, that's drastic, but shooting half a stop difference is absolutely nothing.
Thanks for your comment. I am certainly not worrying about overexposure, I often deliberately do it to be on the safe side. ;)
nice video
got a linhof (super) technika III
just arrived in the mail
I've also got ADOX and KODAK sheet film
But can't really shoot them yet because...
Nobody told me Linhof's tripod threads are larger than my other cameras...
what a rookie's thing to say :)))))
Ice Poseidon after a serious health regiment.
I was there three months ago near rengensburg？
Cool. Yes, the Walhalla is near Regensburg. :)
I squirmed when I saw him push the shutter button with his finger. After all the work to focus and set up a shot, use a shutter cable!! Might as well. They aren't expensive, it's just more stability.
Thanks for your comment. Sorry to hear that we made you squirm. I use a cable release by now... ;)
I did too, but because you did not shut the shutter from the focusing step, in 'T' the shutter REMAINS open UNTIL you hit the lever OR take the ring off the 't' setting, was worried you'd wasted your sheet of film!!
You can hang your camera bag on the tripod for even more stability, especially if there is wind. Some unfortunate photographers see their large format cameras fall over in a gust of wind if left unattended. Ouch! Other recommended items are lens hood and lens filters for black and white photography.
anyone wants to buy such linhof and ROLLEIFLEX sl66 cameras?
8:08 Get a cable release. Spend a few bucks.
5+
If I didn’t see the 4X5’s first, I would say “Oh Wow” to the Hassids. But the Linhofs win by a large margin. I bet 8X10 is even better.
How to shoot a large format camera? Point aim and pull the guns trigger. That wasn’t so hard. Oh! You meant how do you shoot WITH a large format camera.
Thanks for the hint. Changed the video title accordingly. As English is obviously not my native language, this can happen. ;)
A lot of effort for a mediocre photo of nothing intresting...
you try indeed but this is not what i call a how to video... first the filming camera is so far away from what youre pointing to and doing and second you make references to thing you need to do but you don't really show how it's done, particularly with so many variables in large format... you should watch it yourself and try to update... thanks
Trump ads. When I click the ? , it tells me I'm seeing this ad based on the video content. Sigh.
I am really sorry to hear that. Obviously we don’t intend to be associated with any political ads and US politics in general. Unfortunately, I cannot really fine-tune what the algorithm shows you and what not.
Sorry, I’m just so incredibly done with the idiot the minority elected, I overreacted.
Of course you don’t choose this kind of ad.
The title should be "How NOT to shoot a large format camera".
Man, go learn something about technical cameras and you'll agree this is a waste of time, film and equipment.
Post a new video when you have learned, at least, the basics of large format photography
It's not about a larger negative (you won't print so big) or about slowing down the process (you could slow down your digital camera process by drinking a cup of coffee between setting up the camera and pressing the shutter. And yes, serious photographers use the meter in digital).
MrAntonioCastanheira Maybe you should take the time to watch some of my other videos before making such a comment. I’m actually still in the process of learning how to shoot large format and point that out explicitly in the beginning of the video (the video shows my second time ever). I’m not claiming to have any experience or teach how it is correct.
Plus, I use my light meter all the time, regardless which format I shoot. 🙄