I’ve actually gone out a couple of times with a *much* lighter Ansco Commercial 8×10 (maybe 6 pounds to the C-1′s 18) and that’s a fun experience. With the C-1 it’s so heavy as to make the process unenjoyable, which strikes me as being the wrong route to go. I think the area I am photographing in also hinders using the hefty C-1 as I have to park far away and hike to the location.

Plus, down the road of processing I can develop 10 4×5′s compared to 5 8×10′s at one time and scanning 4×5′s is a cinch while scanning 8×10′s is laborious. With what I’m shooting and the size I’m printing (4″x5″ and 8″x10″ using digital negatives) for this project the 8×10 just doesn’t make as much sense. The 8×10 is still the go-to for portraiture for me, though.

I go out with my 4×5, 8×10 and 11×14 at least 2-3 times a month in Phoenix and surrounding areas, even in summer. Granted my cameras are Arcas and are more compact and lightweight, but with all the lenses, holders, etc. It probably weighs close to half my (145) weight. You just have to pace yourself. I find that I am using my 4×5 less and less, except for color.

Nice work… keep it up.