Re: [Leica] Leica and LF

[Disfromage@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/08/2000 1:13:38 AM, michaeljohnston@ameritech.net 
writes:

<< Well, has anybody ever considered that maybe LF photography might be a 
great
_exercise_ to help make one a better _Leica_ photographer? >>

Mike,

That's just what has happened with me.  I have been shooting 4x5 pretty 
seriously for about a year or so concurrently with 35mm (Leica).  I enjoy the 
slowness of the view camera and the almost meditative qualities of setting it 
up and finding the image while using a small amount of film instead of 
jumping around shooting many 35mm frames.  I have never been happy doing 
landscapes or architecture with 35mm.  I think they require a larger negative 
and a camera with at least some perspective control.  I now do different 
kinds of photos with the kind of equipment that does them best.  I'm 
currently attempting to learn how to do environmental portraits with 4x5.  
It's a challenge, but when they work they're great. 

As a result of using LF, I my Leica photography has improved quite dram
atically.  My sense of composition, and general acuity of seeing have grown.  
I've learned a lot about exposing and developing film.  I have become a 
better and more sophisticated B&W printer.  All in all, it has been a 
wonderful experience that has taught me more than I imagined it would.

Richard Wasserman