Crown Graphic 4x5

In opposition to modern society's drive for the latest smaller technology, large format photography is the medium of the masters. Most of the great photographers I admire photograph using the 4x5 or 8x10 medium. I own a Crown Graphic 4x5 as a means of understanding light and the methods of the past. Gone are the multiple shots per second, auto focus, speed. Dark clothes, changing bags, and film holders are the vocabulary.

The Crown Graphic is a 4x5 camera and often referred to as a press camera. Responsible for many of the great images of the 20th century, the Crown Graphic 4x5 is far from ideal for field work however it's inexpensive cost makes is an good platform for someone learning the skills of the large format photographer.

Designed early in the 20th century, the Crown Graphic camera is a stout camera. Since purchasing, I have discovered some drawbacks in the design of this camera. The camera does not easily offer from tilt in the standard. In order to obtain front tilt, the bed must be dropped, and some reverse front tilt applied, although not enough to bring the front lens in parallel with the film. Finally, the front standard must be raised in order to center the image. I have a new design for the front standard, and sill update more when I am done with my modifications.