Today I had a new experience. I recently acquired a Crown Graphic 4x5 camera. It is an old press photographer’s camera that is designed to be handheld. Shooting with it is a totally different mindset. I only took 5 sheets of film loaded in holders and ruined one taking the first shot. It is a slow process to take photos with it but it makes you think more before you trip the shutter. I did not have 160 or so shots per sd card or the ability to delete mistakes. So I shot the remaining 4 exposures with more care so as not to waste another one. There is no lcd screen on the back to check that I got the shot or a histogram to check the exposures. I had to use a handheld meter for exposures and focusing well that is a whole journal in itself. I had a blast. I cannot wait to see the results this Friday when I will be at school and can process the film. To think that the photographers who used these cameras shot news with them is just and got great shots is just a testament to their skills. I learned today that it will take some practice to get the hang of it. More details to follow.

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