5x4 Large Format Camera

During this project we are acquired to learn all about 5x4 large format cameras and how they operate. 
First of all the 5X4 can be classified into two types of camera for different purposes. A monorail 5x4 is specifically used in a studio shoot, where as a flat bed/technical is a more portable version and so is generally used on location. The name 5x4 literally refers to the size of film being 5X4 inches. The size is remarkably bigger than other models such as 35mm, meaning that its able to record more detail and offer better quality. Being the largest of all formats, the film comes in single sheets and only two sheets can be placed into the film holder at a time. The  body is comprised of two standards, a rear standard, which hold the film and a front standard which holds the lens. Bellows occupies the distance between both standards, which keeps any unwanted light from interrupting the exposure from the lens to film. 


The most dynamic thing about these camera's is the movements that can be applied. Unlike with other models, the 5X4 enables you to move both the front and rear standards which creates a series of different effects, not only changes the plane of focus but even the shape of the object itself. There are four distinct movements in total, these are commonly known as Rise & fall, Shift, Tilt, Swing.
Before any movements can be tested the camera has to be in its neutral position. Just like a regular camera the film plane has to be even with the lens plane.


Rise & Fall
This movements deals with the rise and fall of either one the the standards being raised higher or lowered down. This changes the juxtaposition of the film plane so the view will alter according to whether its moved up or down. Alternatively you can also apply what is called a Shift which involves moving the front standard from side to side. This technique is regularly used in architectural photography, where parallel lines of buildings appear at an angle, so this movement gives the photographer the option to correct this issue simply by sliding the standards up or down. By loosening the locking mechanisms, you can adjust the level of either ends until your satisfied with the overall view. This generates a effect, which makes the it look as if you are shooting from a much higher or lower distance/viewpoint than you actually are. One thing that must be considered with this movement, is making sure that the lens has as much coverage on the film plane. 




Tilt
Tilt is a forward or backward angled movement of either one of the standards, which changes both the shape and focus of the image on the screen. 


Tilting the rear standard changes the object shape. The light has to travel further from the lens to reach the the film plane. As the light rays travel, they spread apart and increase the size of the image. 


Tilting the lens towards the object does not affect the image size or shape but will dramatically change the focus as the lens relationship with the film plane is altered and relocated to the another area within the scene. 


Swing
A Swing is another angled movement that can be operated from left to right by adjusting either the front or rear standards. It has the ability to change the both the shape and focus in one go. 


In similar ways to a tilt, a rear standard swing reduces the size of the object on one side while enlarging it on the other. 


Once again by swinging the front standard the plane of focus is distorted. The general effect is to move the area of sharp focus that is normally parallel to the film plane into a new position where it spreads across the object at an angle.