Graflex Press 5×7 SLR Camera

Graflex Brief History

The Graflex story begins with William F. Folmer and William E. Schwing, who founded the Folmer and Schwing Manufacturing Company in New York City in 1887. Initially, the company manufactured gas light fixtures, chandeliers, and bicycles, eventually expanding into cameras.

In 1909, George Eastman acquired the company, relocating it to Rochester, New York, where it operated as the Folmer & Schwing Division of the Eastman Kodak Company. Due to anti-trust regulations, Kodak divested the division in 1926, forming the Folmer Graflex Corporation, which later became Graflex Inc. in 1946. The company changed hands several times, becoming part of the General Precision Equipment in 1956 and later the Singer Corporation in 1968.

Graflex became renowned for the Speed Graphic camera, a staple for photojournalists in the first half of the 20th century. William F. Folmer, co-founder and inventor, guided the company as it shifted focus from gas lamps to photography, releasing the first Graflex camera in 1899. By 1905, the company had fully transitioned to photographic equipment under Eastman Kodak’s ownership. Following a series of ownership changes and anti-trust divestitures, Graflex operated independently until its acquisition by General Precision Equipment and later the Singer Corporation, continuing operations until 1973.

From 1912 to 1973, Graflex produced a range of large and medium-format press cameras, including the Speed Graphic and Crown Graphic models. These cameras varied in film formats from 2¼ by 3¼ inches to 4 by 5 inches and included rangefinder, SLR, and TLR cameras in sizes from 35mm to 5 by 7 inches. The Rochester plant also manufactured the Century Studio Camera, marketed under both Kodak and Graflex brands.

The first Graflex-branded camera, released in 1898, was the Graflex Reflex, an early single lens reflex (SLR) camera. It featured a swinging-mirror, through-the-lens viewing mechanism, making it popular for sports and press photography due to its focal plane shutter that enabled fast shutter speeds. The Graflex Reflex was also favored by fine art photographers, leading to the development of specialized soft-focus lenses.

The Speed Graphic, produced from 1912 to 1973, was a folding camera with a focal plane shutter, popular among press photographers for its lightweight, rugged design and versatile lens compatibility. The Speed Graphic’s distinctive focal plane shutter movement, which caused wheels in photographs to appear oval-shaped, became a graphical symbol of speed. Crown Graphic models, similar to the Speed Graphic, lacked the focal plane shutter, allowing for the use of wider angle lenses due to their more compact design.

Graflex cameras, particularly the Speed Graphic and Crown Graphic, remain popular among fine art photographers for their unique image creation capabilities and straightforward mechanical design. These cameras continue to be used for their ability to accommodate specialized lenses and create distinctive photographic effects.

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Graflex Press 5×7 SLR Camera

The Graflex Press 5×7 SLR camera was made between 1907 and 1923 (wiki) and it is an SLR. It has a special focal plane shutter with speeds from 1/5 sec. up to 1/1500 sec. with narrow curtain slits or slower speeds with wider curtain slits.

This is faster and less complicated than the focal plane shutters of the regular Graflex reflex cameras, which have more slits. The camera can take lenses of focal lengths between 7 and 14 inches, which opens up a lot of possibilities for me in the 21st century!

I wanted the Graflex 5×7 camera for a couple of key reasons. First, I wanted the 5×7 format for my America’s Grist Mills project. The 5×7 format simply feels a lot bigger to me than 4×5.

Secondly, I wanted the ability to use my own lenses. I have many vintage lenses, and the optics are an important part of my narrative. This camera can mount many lenses ranging from 7 inches to 14 inches.

The lens board is approximately 100mm square, about 7mm thick, and interchangeable. This opens up a lot of possibilities for me.

Before Photos

Before Jerry Gordon started the refurb process on my camera, he snapped a few photos for me.

Graflex Resources

Graflex Garage (Jerry Gordon) in Spokane, Washington
Facebook Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/2688289148074171/
Facebook (Personal) – https://www.facebook.com/GraflexGarage/
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCw0LFPdv1VjCo7V5z61bdwg

Jerry Gordon
Graflex Garage
4317 N Addison St.
Spokane, WA 99207
509-638-8921

Flickr search for “Graflex 5×7”

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Graflex Press 5×7 SLR Camera

Production Years

• Introduction: Early 1900s
• Discontinuation: Mid-20th century

Notable 5×7 Models

Graflex 5×7 Home Portrait

• Production Years: 1907 – 1941
• Description: The Home Portrait model was designed for portrait photographers and featured a large viewing hood and a focal plane shutter, making it ideal for studio and outdoor portrait work.

Graflex 5×7 RB Series B

• Production Years: 1923 – 1941
• Description: This model included a revolving back (RB) for easier composition in both portrait and landscape orientations. It was popular among professional photographers who required versatility.

Graflex 5×7 RB Series D

• Production Years: 1928 – 1941
• Description: The Series D was an improvement over the Series B, offering a more robust shutter mechanism and enhanced focusing capabilities, making it a reliable choice for various types of photography.

Key Features

• Large Format: The 5×7 inch film size allows for high-resolution images with exceptional detail and clarity.
• SLR Design: The single-lens reflex mechanism enables photographers to compose and focus through the same lens that captures the image, providing an accurate view and precise control.
• Revolving Back (RB): Allows for easy switching between portrait and landscape orientations without moving the camera.
• Focal Plane Shutter: Offers a wide range of shutter speeds, crucial for capturing fast-moving subjects and achieving creative effects.
• Durability: Built with high-quality materials, these cameras were designed to withstand rigorous professional use.

Usage and Applications

The Graflex 5×7 cameras were favored by press, portrait, and landscape photographers for their image quality and versatility. The large format negatives produced by these cameras were perfect for creating detailed prints suitable for publication and exhibition.

Fortunately, I found a Graflex Press 5×7 SLR camera from Jerry Godon and he is refurbishing the camera for me. This camera was made between 1907 and 1923 (wiki).

The Press Graflex is a 5×7″ SLR. It has a special focal plane shutter with speeds from 1/5 sec. up to 1/1500 sec. with narrow curtain slits or slower speeds with wider curtain slits. This is faster and less complicated than the focal plane shutters of the regular Graflex reflex cameras, which have more slits. The camera can take lenses of focal lengths between 7 and 14 inches, which opens up a lot of possibilities for me in the 21st century!

Restored Graflex 5×7 Press SLR Camera

My Press 5×7 Camera

The Press 5×7 camera weighs about 11 lbs, and the body measures 11″ x 8 3/8″ x 9 3/4″ (LxWxH).

The lens board is approximately 100mm square, about 7mm thick, and interchangeable. This opens up a lot of possibilities for me. 3/8″ Birch plywood planed down to 7mm is a good approach for DIY lens boards or 1/4″ oak from Home Depot also works. There are no special routed joints on the back of these lens boards. Just a flat board is all you need, but some later models do have various recess cuts.

Before Jerry Gordon started the refurb process on my camera, he snapped a few photos for me.

Jerry is replacing the first surface mirror, performing a full CLA on the camera, adding a bright fresnel screen for me, and including 5 Graflex slotted 5×7 plate holders. I plan to use the plate holders for my collodion plates, both dry plate negatives and wet plates, for my “Preserving Missouri’s Grist Mills” project. As shown in the next section, I found a cut film magazine that allows me to load up 12 sheets of film or paper negatives as another option.

Graflex 5×7 “Bag Mag” Cut Film Magazine

I found a Graflex 5×7 cut film magazine in really nice condition for the new 5×7 Press camera. I can use this for sheet film or paper negatives.

Graflex Press 5×7 SLR Overview

The Graflex Press 5×7 large format SLR camera, an icon in the world of professional photography, is renowned for its exceptional image quality and historical significance. This camera, produced by the Graflex company in the early 20th century, remains a favorite among large format photography enthusiasts and collectors.

History and Development

Graflex, a company established in 1887, quickly became a leader in producing high-quality cameras. The Graflex Press 5×7, introduced in the early 1900s, was designed for press photographers who required a reliable, portable, and versatile camera. Its development was a response to the growing demand for high-resolution images, especially in the fields of journalism and documentary photography.

Key Features

Large Format Capabilities:

• The Graflex Press 5×7 uses 5×7 inch film sheets, providing exceptional detail and clarity. The large negative size allows for high-quality enlargements with minimal loss of detail.

Single-Lens Reflex (SLR) Design:

• The SLR mechanism allows photographers to compose and focus directly through the taking lens, offering a precise and accurate view of the final image. This feature was revolutionary at the time and contributed to the camera’s popularity among professional photographers.

Versatility:

• The camera is compatible with a range of lenses, allowing photographers to choose the optimal lens for their specific needs. This versatility makes the Graflex Press 5×7 suitable for various photographic genres, from portrait to landscape photography.

Build Quality:

• Constructed with robust materials, the Graflex Press 5×7 is known for its durability and longevity. Its solid build ensures that it can withstand the rigors of professional use, making it a reliable tool for photographers.

Shutter Mechanism:

• The camera features a focal plane shutter, capable of high-speed exposures, which is essential for capturing fast-moving subjects. This capability was particularly advantageous for press photographers who needed to capture decisive moments.

Usage and Applications

The Graflex Press 5×7 was primarily used by press photographers, but its versatility and image quality also made it popular among portrait and landscape photographers. Its ability to produce large, detailed negatives made it ideal for creating high-quality prints for publication and exhibition.

Legacy and Collectibility

Today, the Graflex Press 5×7 is highly sought after by collectors and large format photography enthusiasts. Its historical significance and superior image quality have cemented its status as a classic in the world of photography. Owning and using a Graflex Press 5×7 is considered a testament to a photographer’s appreciation for traditional photographic techniques and craftsmanship.

Conclusion

The Graflex Press 5×7 large format SLR camera is more than just a piece of photographic equipment; it is a symbol of a bygone era of photography. Its design, functionality, and image quality have left an indelible mark on the history of photography. For those who value precision, detail, and historical significance, the Graflex Press 5×7 remains an enduring icon.

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Graflex Press 5×7 Operating Instructions

USE CASE: LONG EXPOSURE FOCUSING ON REAR GROUND GLASS

STEP 1: Set Tension Knob to 7 (this ensures the curtain will have enough speed)

STEP 2: Cock Mirror Down by Pulling Lever Toward the Back of the Camera (use index finger)

STEP 3: Set I/T Setting on Mirror Cocking Lever to T (Time) 

STEP 4: Release the Shutter with the Pushbutton or Lever on the Left Side of the Camera 

STEP 5: Set Curtain Knob to “O” (Open)

STEP 6: a) Open Aperture on Lens Wide Open

                    b) Meter Scene based on EI Rating of Negative Medium

                    c) Focus on Rear Ground Glass

                    d) Stop Lens Down (if applicable) 

STEP 7: Set the Curtain Knob to “T” (Time) and Insert Holder 

STEP 8: Remove the Dark Slide 

STEP 9: Press the “M” Lever Forward (Below the Mirror Cocking Lever) Until the Curtain Opens and Stops.  (Exposure Begins Now)

STEP 10: When the Desired Exposure Time is Done, Press and Hold the M Lever Until the Curtain Closes.  

STEP 11: Replace The Dark Slide 

To Expose the Second Side of the Holder – Go to Step 5 and Repeat. 

USE CASE: LONG EXPOSURE VIA VIEWING HOOD

STEP 1: Set Tension Knob to 7 (this ensures the curtain will have enough speed)

STEP 2: Cock Mirror Down by Pulling Lever Toward the Back of the Camera (use index finger)

STEP 3: Set I/T Setting on Mirror Cocking Lever to T (Time) 

STEP 4: Release the Shutter with the Pushbutton or Lever on the Left Side of the Camera 

STEP 5: a) Open Aperture on Lens Wide Open

                    b) Meter Scene based on EI Rating of Negative Medium

                    c) Focus on Ground Glass via the Viewing Hood

                    d) Stop Lens Down (if applicable) 

STEP 6: Set the Curtain Knob to “T” (Time) and Insert Holder 

STEP 7: Remove the Dark Slide 

STEP 8: Press the “M” Lever Forward (Below the Mirror Cocking Lever) Until the Curtain Opens and Stops.  (Exposure Begins Now)

STEP 9: When the Desired Exposure Time is Done, Press and Hold the M Lever Until the Curtain Closes. 

STEP 10: Replace The Dark Slide 

To Expose the Second Side of the Holder – Go to Step 2 and Repeat.

USE CASE: SHUTTER EXPOSURE ON REAR GROUND GLASS

Example: 1/30^th exposure time. 

STEP 1: Set Tension Knob to 7 (this ensures the curtain will have enough speed)

STEP 2: Cock Mirror Down by Pulling Lever Toward the Back of the Camera (use index finger)

STEP 3: Set I/T Setting on Mirror Cocking Lever to T (Time) 

STEP 4: Release the Shutter with the Pushbutton or Lever on the Left Side of the Camera 

STEP 5: Set Curtain Knob to “O” (Open)

STEP 6: a) Open Aperture on Lens Wide Open

                    b) Meter Scene based on EI Rating of Negative Medium

                    c) Focus on Rear Ground Glass

                    d) Stop Lens Down (if applicable) 

STEP 7: Refer to the Shutter Chart for the Spring Tension & Aperture Curtain Settings.

NOTE: Depending on where your spring tension is currently set, if you need to release tension (go to a lower number), go past the target setting by one click and then rewind to the target setting. 

STEP 8: Insert Holder & Remove the Dark Slide 

STEP 9: Press the “M” Lever Forward (Below the Mirror Cocking Lever) Until the Curtain Opens and Stops.  (Exposure is tripped)

STEP 10: Replace the Dark Slide  

To Expose the Second Side of the Holder – Go to Step 7

USE CASE: INSTANTANEOUS SHUTTER EXPOSURE VIA VIEW HOOD (TYPICALLY HAND-HELD)

Example: 1/200^th exposure time. 

STEP 1: Insert Holder & Open Lens Wide Open for Brighter Viewing 

STEP 2: Meter Scene or Subject 

STEP 3: Set I/T Selector to I for “Instantaneous” Exposure

STEP 4: Cock Mirror Down by Pulling Lever Toward the Back of the Camera (use index finger)

STEP 5: Refer to the Shutter Chart for the Spring Tension & Aperture Curtain Settings.

STEP 6: Remove the Dark Slide

STEP 7: Focus Using View Hood

STEP 8: Stop Down Lens (if desired) 

STEP 9: Release the Shutter with the Pushbutton or Lever on the Left Side of the Camera 

STEP 10: Replace the Dark Slide

For the Next Exposure, Go to STEP 5