Roll- Film Backs
View cameras with roll film backs are an
alternative to medium format cameras. View cameras allow lens movements for total image
control. By tilting/swinging the lens, you can alter the angle of the plane of sharp focus
in your subject. With Rise/fall/shift movements you move the lens' image circle relative
to the picture frame to alter the subject area recorded. Rise for example, is used to take
in the top of a tree without having to point the camera upward. Some camera models such as
the Fuji GX680 offer lens movements but are much more limited compared to view cameras
with roll film backs. Horseman, Graflex, and Linhof are some of the manufacturers that
offer roll film backs and are very similar in their design. Available frame sizes include,
6X6, 6X7, 6X9, and 6X12. You must remove the ground glass before clipping the back on.
With the roll film attached and the lens diaphragm closed, the metal slide is removed and
you can take the picture. Take caution to avoid the following errors: Remember to close
the lens diaphragm before removing the metal slide; Wind on the film before taking the
next shot to avoid double exposures. A view camera with a roll film back can be a great
investment for photographers moving up to medium or large formats. You can always switch
between the two formats. Use your camera for large 4X5 shots with great details or switch
to the roll film and still have all the different movements offered by the larger view
camera without having to load a lot of sheet film holders which also cost more per shot
than roll films.