Large Format Cameras

A large format camera uses a film or a digital sensor that is larger than or generally 4x5 inches. The 8x10 large format camera is also commonly used as well. Many close-up and architectural photographers prefer large format cameras because they are more able to control delivering perspective and field depth in images. There are many different types of large format cameras. Here are the following:
Calumet Cadet. The adjustable front and back of this monorail camera have all the basic movements needed for quality large format photography. The Calumet Cadet includes a 150mm Rodenstock lens, focusing cloth, two dark slides, Ilform film and magnifying lupes.

Cambo. The Cambo’s ‘Classic’ model offers simple and effective controls that allow certain lens and film standard functions. Try the ‘Legend 2’ if you want more control of your photography. It has a stronger framework, good focus controls and a depth of field scale. On the other hand, the “Master-Plus 2” comes with a good base tilt, 70mm lateral shift and a variable axis shift, although its 7kg weight may be a little too much for field use, in which case you may want to use the 4.1kg 45SF, instead.

Canham. Canham comes with a variety of lightweight folding cameras in 5x 4, 5x7, 10x8 inches as well as a 4x10 viewing screen panoramic camera. Made to order models include 7x17, 8x20 and 12x20 inches. All Canham cameras feature a broad range of movements and functions such as the front rise, fall, swing and tilt and swing and tilt along with the rear shift. Meanwhile, the DLC45 model is a lightweight large format camera with a dual rail base that allows fast bellows extension for lenses ranging from 47mm to 480mm.

Ebony. The Ebony comes in two 5x4 inch large format cameras namely the SV45TE and the SV45. The SV45TE allows the use of wide angles sans dropping the bed and is great for outdoor use while the SV45 has additional movements on the back of the film.

Gandolfi . Known as one of the best manufacturers of wooden cameras, Gandolfi comes in 5x4, 5x7, 10x8 and 11x14 inch models. The “Variant” model has a bigger lens panel
and extension chambers for greater choice of lens. The GV45, which is the 5x4 version is available in three levels namely the GY45I that has 313mm of extension bellows that lets you use the lenses for up to 210mm; the GV45II that has a body focus and 485mm extension for lenses up to 360mm and the GV45III that has a horizontal and vertical shift and a revolving back, making it a top pick for catalogue photography and pack shots. Moreover, panoramic conversion and upgrading are available in a Variant.

Horseman. The Horseman comes in a number of 5x4 inch precision field cameras, 5x4 inch and 10x8 inch monorails. The Horseman’s 1.7 kg 45HD is the lightest large format camera that can be stored inside a backpack but is also heavy on its performance. You can also try the 45FA for more movements. Studio photographers may want to check out the L-series as well. For telephoto work and extreme close-ups, the 45LS is your best bet. Other models also include the 45LX and 45LX-C

Linhof. Travel and field photographers will love the Master Technika or the Technikardan S45. The compact Technikardan has all features of a view camera but has many perks of a field camera as well. The Master Technika Classic 45 is a sophisticated field camera that has an optical rangefinder and handgrip for added ease when doing location work. Moreover, it can also be used in a studio as well. On the other hand, nothing beats quality studio photography with Kardan monorail cameras, in LT and GTL models. These models offer a broad range of movements and promote maximum format flexibility.

Other examples of large format film cameras include Lupa, Rayment, Silvestri, Sinar, Toyo, Walker, Wisner, Wista, Woodman and Zone VI.