Module 1 (The Camera) Large Format Photography Video Workshop by Tim Layton

Through many conversations, emails asking for help, and talking to new and aspiring large format photographers, I have developed a comprehensive introduction to getting started with large format photography in video form because it is much easier to learn and understand the concepts visually for most people. 

I have broken the information into three modules that align to the classic trilogy by Ansel Adams (The Camera, The Negative, The Print), but I have completely modernized all of the information in addition to focusing in on the most relevant so that you can get up and running quickly.  

I walk you through everything you need to know in order to get started in large format photography in this three-module video workshop series.  My focus is on practical application and I purposely avoid discussion of engineering principles and advanced mathematics.   

MODULE 1 - THE VIEW CAMERA

FOREWORD 2

1 - INTRODUCTION 4

- Workshop Access 4

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6

2 - VISUAL TOUR OF THE 4X5 VIEW CAMERA 9

- Most Common Types of View Cameras 9

3 - LARGE FORMAT LENSES 10

- Common Focal Lengths & Equivalents 10

- Tips On Choosing a Lens For Your Scene/Subject 12

- Shutter Overview 13

- Image Circle 14

- How to Check for Lens Coverage 15

- Maintenance 16

- Storage Tips 16

- Tip For Testing Shutter Speed Accuracy 17

- Lens Boards 18

- Lens Buying Tips 18

4 - FILM HOLDERS 20

- How To Load Film Holders 20

- How to Clean & Lubricate Film Holders 21

- Tips on Buying Used Film Holders 22

- Film Changing Tents 22

- Storing Large Format Film 23

- General Tips 23

5 - LARGE FORMAT ACCESSORIES 25

6 - CLOSEUP & MACRO PHOTOGRAPHY WITH LARGE FORMAT 32

- Quick Start Info 33

- Magnification 34

- Near Focus Limit 35

- Exposure Compensation 37

7 - LARGE FORMAT MOVEMENTS 41

- Introduction 42

- Film to Lens Distance 44

- Rise and Fall 45

- Shift 46

- Tilt & Swing 47

- Rear Standard Swings & Tilts 47

- Front Standard Swings & Tilts 49

- Axis vs. Base Tilts 50

- Asymmetrical Tilts 51

8 - QUICK REFERENCE CARDS 53

9 - TWO METHODS FOR MAKING SHARP PHOTOS 54

- Method 1 - Determine Optimum Aperture & Use Camera Movements 58

- Focus On The Far, Tilt To The Near 59

- Method 2 - Use Hyperfocal Distance 61

- Calculating Hyperfocal For Your Lens & Aperture 63

10 - IN THE FIELD - CLOSEUP & MACRO 65

11 - LARGE FORMAT MOVEMENTS CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS 66

- Perspective Control & Managing Parallel Lines 66

12 - 14 STEP LARGE FORMAT CHECKLIST 69

- EXPOSURE INDEX CARDS 72

13 - CONCLUSION & NEXT STEPS 73