AJ Holmes, co-founder and co-owner of Negative Supply, is an avid large format film enthusiast, having worked with 4x5 and 8x10 formats for several years. While his full-time pursuit is with Negative Supply, he finds time regularly to return home to Tennessee and photograph his family, and he also regularly works with large format film here in California.
Many of you have asked questions about shooting large format, developing and scanning these larger films, and so-on. As such, we wanted to take this opportunity to share a few of AJ’s responses to questions surrounding large format usage in 2020! Be sure to read AJ’s list of gear suggestions if you’re beginning with 4x5, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions regarding large format camera gear, developing your sheet film, or scanning! We’re happy to help.
What’s the benefit of shooting 4x5, especially as film prices are rising?
“While there are many technical benefits to working with 4x5 large format film, for me it’s all about process. I love the slow, methodical, intentional movements behind working with large format, figuratively and literally. Every decision is discriminant, and every part of the process requires your undivided attention. Typically I leave my phone and other devices behind or in the car when making these photographs, as I want nothing competing for my attention. As for the raising costs of film, that’s something I take into consideration when working, and perhaps is an even more important reason to shoot large format. If there’s an inherent cost to each frame, this demands your attention and focus even more fiercely.”
How long have you been shooing 4x5?
“While attending Middle Tennessee State University, a professor insisted I work with 4x5. As such, I’ve now been working with 4x5 film since the fall of 2015, and continue to do so now. I owe a huge thank-you to Tom Jimison and my other professors from MTSU, as without their influence I wouldn’t be working this way today. I’ve also incorporated 8x10 film as recently as September, 2019, and hope to share more about that process at a later date.”
What’s your favorite film stock?
“Most people who know me know I L O V E color film! This is the truth, and Kodak Portra 400 is at the top of the list. I regularly use this stock with 4x5 and 8x10 as the higher film speed comes in handy. This is very relevant when you consider bellows draw compensation, smaller shooting f stops to obtain optimal sharpness and image circle/coverage, and more. Simply put, if I can shoot a faster film on large format, I do. For black and white I most prefer Kodak 320TXP, but do use Ilford HP5+ and FP4 as well.”
What gear do you use for your 4x5 photos?
“I use a variety of tools when working with 4x5, but most importantly is my camera of choice: My Chamonix H-1 4x5. This is an absolutely fantastic camera with a wide range of movements, and I hope to share a review for that specific tool at a later date. Below I’ve listed the majority of the 4x5 gear I use, and I typically try to use lenses that will also cover my 8x10 camera so I can share tools.”
Chamonix H-1 4x5
Schneider Symmar S 300mm f/5.6
Rodenstock Sironar S 210mm f/5.6
Nikkor 120mm f/8 SW
Nikkor 75mm f/4.5 SW
Toyo View 4x5 Cut Film Holders
Toyo View 3.6x Focusing Loupe
Gitzo Systematic 4 Tripod
Ries Double Tilt Head
Harrison Standard Film Changing Tent
Wanderer Dark Cloth
Negative Supply Pro Mount MK2 and 4x5 Film Holder
What’s some advice you’d give to someone starting out with large format?
“ Dive on in! It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the dos and don’ts to large format, but ultimately all it takes is finding a camera and a lens, loading your favorite film in a light tight bag, and making your exposures. What gear do you need to start? Consider the following items for 4x5:
You’ll need a 4x5 camera. Consider Intrepid or Chamonix if you’re buying new, or go the used route for limitless options
Start with a standard or slightly wide standard lens, either a 135mm or 150mm. Stick with a modern multi coated lens if you intend to utilize color film. Rodenstock, Fuji, Nikon, and Schneider are all great contenders.
4x5 film holders! I suggest Toyo View 4x5 Cut Film Holders, which can still be purchased new. Want a great price on these? Shoot us a message and I’ll put you in touch with a great resource.
A focusing cloth and loupe are essential. Check out Wanderer Dark Cloths out of Oregon for a fantastic and durable focusing cloth. As for loupes, I strongly recommend a used Toyo focusing loupe (around $80 USD)
Utilize a film changing bag or tent for loading and unloading your negatives. You can source a changing bag for as low as $20 USD.
Last but not least, grab a decent cable release (at least 1 foot long) and use a sturdy tripod. Now you’re ready to go!
The above list is a great starting point, and I’m always happy to answer additional questions as they come up!” -AJ
We would like to thank AJ for letting us feature his work and sharing his knowledge on shooting 4x5. Check out more of his work on his Instagram
AJ stays pretty busy with things here at Negative Supply, and as a result he sends his film to Mark Sperry at Northeast Photographic. Mark expertly develops and scans all formats of film from 35mm to 8x10 large format, and he scans with a range of tools. For 4x5 scanning Mark uses our Pro Mount MK2 and our 4x5 Film Holder. Thank you, Mark, for using Negative Supply tools, and thanks so much for running a truly top notch lab.
Check back for more features, interviews and more coming to our blog (and YouTube) coming soon, friends!