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Alec Soth

 

Alec Soth, renowned for his evocative large-format photography, has employed a diverse range of camera equipment throughout his career, adapting his tools to suit the narrative and aesthetic demands of each project. 

Here's an overview of the gear he's used:

Primary Camera Gear

  • R.H. Phillips & Sons 8×10 Compact View Camera: Soth's signature camera, notably used in projects like Sleeping by the Mississippi and Niagara. He often pairs it with a 300mm Nikon lens, appreciating the unique rendering and depth it provides.

R.H. Phillip & Sons 8 x 10 Compact

  • K.B. Canham 8×10: Another large-format camera Soth has utilized, offering portability and precision.

K.B. Canham 8 x 10

  • Lenses:

    • Nikon 300mm: A standard lens for 8×10 format, providing a natural perspective.

    • Nikon 800mm (convertible to 1200mm): Used for capturing distant subjects with compression.

    • Schneider 210mm Super-Angulon: A wide-angle lens suitable for expansive scenes.

  • Mamiya 6: A medium-format rangefinder camera employed in projects like Dog Days, Bogotá, valued for its compactness and image quality.

Mamiya 6

  • Phase One LightPhase Digital Back: Utilized for editorial assignments requiring digital capture with medium-format quality.

Film and Shooting Approach

  • Film: Soth predominantly uses Kodak Portra NC 400 and 160 films, known for their natural color rendition and fine grain.

  • Shooting Style: His use of large-format cameras necessitates a deliberate and patient approach. Soth often sets up his camera only after establishing a connection with his subject, allowing for a more intimate and less intrusive photographic experience.

Digital and Alternative Formats

While Soth is celebrated for his large-format work, he has also explored other formats:

  • Digital Photography: In projects like Songbook, Soth transitioned to digital capture, embracing the flexibility and immediacy it offers.

  • 35mm and Medium Format: Depending on the project's requirements, Soth adapts his equipment choice to best convey the intended narrative.

Soth's adaptability in equipment choice underscores his commitment to storytelling, selecting tools that align with the emotional and aesthetic goals of his work.
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