MF for dummies.

[skipper53]

Greeting to those beyond the 35mm dimension,

Absolutly new to MF photography, was hoping for someone to direct me to a start point. The theory/science behind the art medium, the workings of MF film, what equipment to start off with, especially for Black and White photography, film and camera.

Please suggest books or websites a MF dummy like me can go to read up on the basics, better yet if someone would educate me here

Pointers of any sort much appreciated!

Thanks in advance. Cheers!

[sabahan]

Taking photo using MF is the same as 135,only if you like to process it yourself,loading the film is a bit different,all the other are the same.

[Terence]

I find Ken Rockwell's primer on MF rather illuminating. A great read for MF newbies.

[dreamseeker]

CHeck out the following site for some info to get you started.

http://www.fotografiewimvanvelzen.nl/webarticle14a.htm

[skipper53]

I've read Ken Rockwell's website b4, defintly a good read for those in the dark abt MF.

So lets talk equipment now...

How much would i have to set aside for a decent MF body, lens and film cartridge?

It is to my understanding that the chemicals i use to develop my 35mm are different from those necessary for the 120 film (do correct me if i am wrong), in that case what are the necessery bottles i should keep in my darkroom? the better value for $ brands, stuff like that..

Cheers!

[student]

Originally Posted by skipper53 How much would i have to set aside for a decent MF body, lens and film cartridge? It is to my understanding that the chemicals i use to develop my 35mm are different from those necessary for the 120 film (do correct me if i am wrong), in that case what are the necessery bottles i should keep in my darkroom? the better value for $ brands, stuff like that..

I assume you are talking B&W developing.

For a given type of film, there is no necessity for different kinds of chemicals (well there is, but the differences this change is insignificant).

For for practical purposes, stick to your "old and familiar combinations".

[skipper53]

Originally Posted by student "old and familiar combinations".

hah that sounds very reassuring sir. yes, i was as a matter of fact talking abt black and white film developing.

"Dummies," like myself may find these websites very imformative:

http://www.photoethnography.com/Clas...html~mainFrame

http://www.cameras.co.uk/html/medium-format-cameras.cfm

[Terence]

The Fuji GA645 series is an economical and convenient introduction to MF. Sharp built in lens, compact body and an onboard meter make MF real easy. Relatively inexpensive at approx $800 for one in decent condition.