Large format photography refers to film and camera types where a single frame is 4×5 inches or larger. This distinction is primarily based on the size of the film used.
Unlike the roll film commonly found in 35mm or medium format cameras, large format uses individual sheets of film, often loaded into specific holders. This is why it's also sometimes referred to as sheet film.
Common Large Format Film Sizes
While 4×5 inches is the foundational size for the large format classification, several other larger dimensions are also widely used. These larger sheet film sizes offer progressively greater detail and resolving power due to the significantly larger negative area.
Here are some common large format film sizes mentioned in the reference:
- 4×5 inches: The most common and entry-level size for large format.
- 5×7 inches: Offering a larger negative than 4x5, providing more detail.
- 8×10 inches: A very popular size for fine art and portraiture, known for exceptional detail.
- 11×14 inches: An even larger size, often used for contact printing or demanding work.
Other, less common, and even larger sizes exist, but these listed represent the standard range you are likely to encounter.
Understanding large format sizes is key because the larger the film sheet, the higher the potential resolution and quality of the final image, especially when printing large or making contact prints.
