About two years ago, I invested in a 4x5 large format system. I have since grown that system with two lenses, a Nikon 150mm and a Rodenstock 90mm, new holders, a stock of film, including 11 boxes of Fuji Velvia 50 just prior to discontinuation, and the trusted light meter from Sekonic, the 758.

I recently also purchased a Fuji GX617 panoramic camera with the 90mm lens.

I took both of the cameras on my recent trip in October, from San Diego to Redwood State Park, and finally to Portland, OR. I didn't know what to expect from the Fuji, since I had never worked with medium format, let alone the beast of 6x17 camera.

I had an opportunity to shot the 6x17 at Half Moon Bay at the Moss beach, with the rows of Cypress trees. I shot some old Fuji Velvia 100F which came with the camera, and Ilford FP4 which is currently my favorite B+W film. I must say I am pretty impressed with the results. the photos are sharp and the metering is spot on.

I used the 4x5 camera at Half Moon Bay and at the Portland Japanese garden, shooting the famous Japanese Maple. Other than small amour of light leakage in one corner, I really like the result. For the maple tree, I shot with Portra 160, which is very forgiving film. It has a huge latitude, so if you mess up the metering, well, chances are you didn't! The color is very subtle. Its great for trees. I think Ill be using this film a lot more than Fuji Velvia.

Film Holders in Ziploc bag, stored in a small cooler

The special ziploc has a pocket which is used to place the identification note. It does not touch the film holder

Fallen Tree, Half Moon Bay, Moss Beach. Ilford FP4, Fuji gx617 90mm

Chamonix 45n-1, Rodenstock 90mm, Portra 150