Jaspal was recently interviewed for a project relating to photographers and their art. In addition to other topics, there was a more technically orientated section on photographic equipment and technique which may prove useful to those who confess an interest…
What special considerations are required for panoramic prints?
Panoramas are normally scanned from side-to-side and, therefore, require a ‘start-middle-end’ narrative that suits that particular requirement. In technical terms, there is noticeable light fall-off towards the edges of the large-format image circle and, therefore, a centre filter is often required to correct for this (although recently I have been experimenting with the aesthetics of ‘pulling’ viewers into the scene via the deliberate removal of the filter). The only other note I would add here is that the panoramic format must be a totally immerse endeavour - you really have to live and breathe the aspect ratio in order to get the best results. I once had the dreadful experience of trying to use three formats - 35mm, 617 and 4x5 - on a trip. The fact that I did not manage to capture a single shot during the week long period speaks volumes for the focus required.
Are you still using film?
My primary camera is the Linhof 617 SIII. In terms of ruggedness, usability and sharpness, I have found nothing comes close to this camera - I often joke that if there’s ever a nuclear Armageddon the only survivors will be cockroaches and Linhof 617’s! Although I tend to favour the use of both the Super Angulon 90mm and 72mm lenses (equivalent to ~19mm and ~15mm respectively in 35mm terms), I am also mulling over the purchase of the 180mm lens for more telephoto / abstract work. Fuji Velvia 50 (both 120 and 220 formats) is the colour film of choice with Tmax 100 used for black and whites. I have tried the new Velvia 100 Professional and found it not to my liking (particularly its handling of the red spectrum) so I am very much looking forward to trying out the new Velvia 50 II. A Sekonic light meter, Lee filter set and Manfrotto tripod round off the main tools.
What about digital?
I also use a Canon 1Ds mkII and consider it one of the best digital cameras ever made. A variety of lenses accompany me including the 14mm, 17-40mm, 24-105mm and 100-400m. Having both the Linhof and the Canon is really a dream combination. Whilst the former handles epic landscapes in its stride, the latter comes into its own with fast moving and/or variable ISO scenes. I have recently returned from an around-the-world trip covering every known biome on earth (forest, aquatic, desert, grassland and tundra). The fact that the Canon made it through every step of the way speaks volumes for the camera and its manufacturer.
What are your thoughts on equipment?
Finally, let me say that in the same vein as Jimi Hendrix and his fabled Fender Stratocaster, a camera is just a tool which helps us to communicate our hopes, thoughts and desires to others. I truly believe that all the equipment in the world cannot bring emotion to a print!
Jaspal Jandu Photography © 2007
