[Leica] Technical image quality vs. Artistic value

["Dan S" <dstate1@hotmail.com>]

The idea that 35mm can equal med and large format in terms of TECHNICAL 
quality is a bit of a non-starter.  Just based on the math alone 35mm is way 
behind. Saddling yourself with 25 speed film to trying to equal the 
qualities of a larger format negates much of the purpose of 35mm. 
(portability, ease of use and spontaneity)

That said, the 35mm format makes avenues of photography possible that would 
be impossible with larger equipment.

Here are some facts:

1.  Large formats ARE capable of higher TECHNICAL image quality than 35mm 
when we are talking about equal print sizes...but...

2.  Few people want to carry a Mamiya 6x7 or Hassleblad around their neck 
for 8-12 hours a day.

3.  A camera that you have with you takes much better pictures than one you 
don't.

I encourage photographers to view photo's from med and large formats next to 
35mm work.  (A great example would be Stuart Franklins recent panaroma shots 
in National Geographic).  It would take a pretty poor set of eyes not to 
notice the TECHNICAL quality differences.  Remember, it is not just the LENS 
that creates the quality impression, but the degree of enlargement of the 
FILM.  Tonality and color saturation are some of the reasons why "Big film" 
can't be beat TECHNICALLY.

Any film format is a quality compromise.  Going from 8X10 to 4X5 is a 
compromise.  Going from 4X5 to 35mm is a compromise.  It is up to the 
photographer to determine when those compromises become unacceptable and to 
work within his or her own standards.

Best Wishes
Dan States



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