Tutor: Joseph Wilson
5×4” cameras continue to play an important role in image production for many photographers. They offer wonderful depth of field, detail and tonality. Large format cameras alter our approach to photographing, their operation requires a level of attention which encourages a slower and more considered interface with our subject. This too has visual consequences on the resulting images.
During this course, you will develop an understanding of the technical operation of a 5×4” large format camera, from the loading of darkslides to the manipulation of camera movements. Through discussion, practical tasks, and the analysis of resulting images, the benefits of the slow and considered process necessitated by large format photography will be made clear.
We will photograph using black & white photographic paper, which we will reverse-process into positive prints so that we can reflect upon the results of our technical decisions throughout the course of the day. This photochemical process is a deeply satisfying one, which makes for beautiful one-of-a-kind prints.
We will discuss film types, loading film, and the development of film so that you will feel prepared when making the move to using 5×4 film in the future.
Course Outline
Morning
- Examples of and discussion of large format photography
- Technical overview and demonstration
- Loading darkslides
- Photographing a scene with the camera in neutral
- Processing our first 5×4 photographs for review
Afternoon
- Demonstration of camera movements and their effects
- Photographing architecture using movements
- Processing our second set of photographs for review
- Demonstration of 5×4 film preparation, use, development, and printing
- Review of session
Courses are subject to minimum enrolment. Please register early, within five days of the start date, to reduce the likelihood of course cancellation.
Please read our cancellation policy before booking.
Students, anyone over the age of 65, and those in receipt of any form of benefits can claim the concessionary price, offering a 10% discount on the full course price. Valid proof of eligibility must be produced on the first day of the course. Please use the code CONCESSION when prompted at checkout.
Stills uses ILFORD PHOTO chemicals on this course that can potentially pose a risk to pregnant and breast feeding women and asthmatics.
We take every care to ensure good working practices and adequate ventilation in our darkrooms. If you feel you may be adversely affected, please visit the Health and Safety section of Ilford’s website for further information.
General Guidance Notes for Pregnant and Breast Feeding Women and Asthmatics:
- ILFORD PHOTO products include no known human carcinogens, and no substances to which phrase R46 (May cause heritable genetic damage) or R64 (May cause harm to breastfed babies) applies.
- Most ILFORD PHOTO developers use hydroquinone, and their classification therefore includes R40 (Limited evidence of a carcinogenic effect) and R68 (Possible risk of irreversible effects).
- Some ILFORD PHOTO chemicals use boric acid or borates. These substances are classified as toxic for reproduction. As a result, the classification of some of the powder developers includes R60 (May impair fertility) and R61 (May cause harm to the unborn child).
