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| 4x5 single image HDR |
Claire, 2010 ©Michael Seamans
Thanks to ebay, digital photography and polaroid type 55 I found myself back using a 4x5 camera. Of course I remember running to the cage, for a field camera or signing my life away to use a Sinar P2 in the studio at RIT. Which is where I went to school, a lifetime ago, or was it just yesterday, both really apply. I remember doing zone system test in summer photo boot camp with grey cards, white cards and spot meters all around. I remember doing lighting assignments trying to figure out all the ways to light a wine glass, or using flats to get that even Avedon lighting for portraits. But when you turned on the lights to see those beautiful 4x5 negatives in the metal holders it was all worth it. Then you graduate and realize you no longer have the world of equipment at your fingertips, for only the cost of tuition, and you go back to the trusted 35mm. Then comes Digital photography and all these wonderful 4x5's and Hasselblads end up on ebay at just the fraction of the cost. I bought a 500c, 80mm f/2.8, 120 back, and a prism finder for a grand total of $400.. Then I find an old speed graphic and polaroid back, and polaroid type 55. Which means I can make 4x5 negs without a dark room, and instantly see what I have. I am back in the 4x5 game. Polaroid stops making film, no more type 55. I'm already hooked, so now its onto a light tight tank, tri-x and the Epson v700 scanner. And if you wonder why, check out these old 4x5 mug shots from the 20's: What is old is new to me again.... 4x5
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