With Highway One now heading noticeably inland from the coast,…
Gary Chapman and his 16×20 camera. Photo essay by Janet Naismith.
Gary Chapman is a photographer who likes to use ultra large format cameras.
Over a ten-year period I have been documenting Gary in various locations as he uses the 16 x 20 camera.
Gary purchased the camera: a 16 x 20 Wisner online with a 24-inch Georz Dagor and a 35-inch Georz red dot Atar lenses and two film holders that are unique to the camera. Both lenses comfortably cover movements with the 16 x 20 camera.
Gary soon discovered that a sturdy tripod was essential for the weight and stability of the camera. After an extensive search he found an Auricon tripod used in the movie industry for 35 mm cine cameras of the 1940’s in Hollywood.
Gary uses Ilford FP4+ film that is processed in D76 chemistry. Prints are made by contact process.
Gary loves his camera.
I have helped Gary carry the lens and film holders to various locations. While watching Gary set up his camera it became obvious to me to start recording a photo essay to share this unique camera with others.
Gary Chapman’s The Photograph Considered can be seen here.
Janet Naismith’s Folio can be seen here.
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What wonderful photos of Gary with his 16×20 camera!!!! They are very special photos to keep. Jan and Gary I miss you both!!!
Thanks Keiko
Jan and Gary
Having recently visited Ellinjaa Falls myself, hats off to your strength and tenacity getting that awesome camera there and back!
thanks Mat
Yes it was an effort tackled in the semi dark to take advantage of the dawn light, glad you appreciated the photo essay
Gary and Jan
Hi Jan,
Interesting essay. I remember the day Gary’s 16×20 Wisner arrived and we picked it up for him. This post brought back a few memories.
Andy.
Hi Jan
It’s wonderful to see Gary getting the attention he deserves. It’s a great compilation of images of Gary.
Kind regards
Mick
Admirer Gary’s work in all formats and mediums (I see he works in wet plate, as well), but esp. 16×20; would love to see more shots of his darkroom and/or of him at work in the darkroom (basically anything on his workflow would be of interest).
Thank you.
Thank you Carl for your kind words my work flow is traditional using large format cameras with vintage lens I am committed to analog photography and historical process. Shots of the darkroom coming up.