4×5 Preview

Over the last few weeks I have been working with my Speed Graphic Miniature. Instead of using normal 4×5 negatives, which are difficult to develop, easily scratched and must be processed in total darkness; I have opted to use regular photo paper as negatives and contact printing the resulting images. Photo paper is easy to handle, cheaper than negative film, and can be processed under normal dark-room conditions. The only draw back is that the paper has an ISO rating of about 3. This means that in full sun at f/32 (I always use the same aperture for consistency in timing my exposures) a normal exposure is about 2 sec…These are a few of my more successful attempts, however they have not been digitized very well (somewhat soft focus). These really need to be viewed in person to appreciate the detail, sharpness and tonal range produced by this camera/paper combo…