Proceeding systematically and registering data is the starting point to
develop techniques and procedures. This book will help you to visualize,
calculate exposure in relation to bellows extensions, filter factor and
reciprocity and estimate depth of field. It wants to be a compact
companion, everywhere, in every occasion. Charts in chronological order
provide systematical guidelines. 140 printed forms are waiting for your
collected data to be filled in ( e.g. 140 single sheet film negatives or
140 medium format films with 12 exposures on each film). Mastery is not
achieved with buying expensive devices or comparing MTF charts. To have
routines, training and revision in everyday practise is far more
important. Photography is not rocket science. You control perspective,
image placement and depth of field on your ground glass. - You define
textured shadows and highlights in III and VII and adjust exposure and
development to get some contrast. - You know about bellows extension
factors and filter factors because making a portrait in 4x5 inch is
macro photography and you use an external light meter. Simply add the
exposure values in the charts, successively. Did you ever mention to do
macro photography with a DX / FX SLR and an incident light meter, e.g. a
Sekonic L28c2 or a Gossen Luna-Pro? Why not? It is possible and far more
satisfying than 3D matrix metering through the lens. - Large format
cameras do not have a depth of field scale. Just read the tables below
to make an estimated guess. - But be aware: these charts result from
personal experiences: of course there will be no warranty in case of
failure. If you want to learn more about theory and techniques of
photography there is an interesting bibliography. You will find some of
these items in your local library.
