Graflex Resources
Graflex Features & Details Overview
Information from the 1939 Graflex Catalog, unless otherwise noted.
NATIONAL GRAFLEX
INSTANT ACTION: The top cover “pops” open, and the focusing hood springs into position instantly at the touch of a button. It’s ready for immediate action!
BUILT-IN EXPOSURE GUIDE: Accurately calibrated for all picture-taking hours of the day and all months of the year, this guide goes far in taking the guesswork out of picture-taking.
FILM MEASURING METER: A special meter and film lock, which automatically measures the film as you wind it after each exposure, gives ten 2 1/4 x 2 1/2 pictures from each No. 120, 8-exposure roll of either black and white or color film.
BUILT-IN MICRO-FOCUSER: Out-of-focus pictures are avoided by using the built-in micro-focuser, which magnifies the ground glass image, making it easy to see when your subject is accurately focused.
GRAFLEX FOCAL PLANE SHUTTER: The National Graflex is equipped with the dependable Graflex focal plane shutter, which transmits one-third more light than a between-the-lens shutter.
DETAILS: Picture size: 2 ¼ x 2 ½ Lens: 75 mm f/3.5 B & L Tessar; Focal plane shutter speeds: Eight from 1/30 to 1/500 second and “bulb;” Accessory self-timer provides eleven additional exposures from 1/2 second to 10 full seconds.
TELEPHOTO LENS: An accessory 140 mm. f/6.3 B & L telephoto lens practically doubles the image size.
R.B. SERIES B GRAFLEX
GRAFLEX FEATURES: Graflex full-vision ground glass focusing and the Graflex focal plane shutter prepare the Series B for truly superior results. It is also versatile, using cut film, film packs, and roll film or plates.
REVOLVING BACK: On all models except 5×7, the Graflex Back revolves to facilitate instant positioning of the film or plate for either horizontal or vertical subjects.
MODEL DETAILS:
2 ¼ x 3 ¼ Non-RB Bellows Capacity: 7 3/16, Lens: 5 ½, Closest Working Distance: 21 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
Revolving Back 3 ¼ x 4 ¼ Bellows Capacity: 8 7/16, Lens: 6 3/8, Closest Working Distance: 23 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
Revolving Back 4 x 5 Bellows Capacity: 10 1/8, Lens: 7 ½, Closest Working Distance: 27 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
Stationary Back 5 x 7 Bellows Capacity: 11 inches, Lens: 8 ½, Closest Working Distance: 29 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
R.B. SERIES D GRAFLEX
INTERCHANGABLE LENSBOARD: The ability to use a wide range of lenses, easily interchangeable, gives the Series D Graflex a broad range of utility.
REVOLVING BACK: The Graflex Back revolves to facilitate instant positioning of the film or plate for either horizontal or vertical subjects.
GRAFLEX FEATURES: Graflex full-vision ground glass focusing, where you see the image full size and right side up until the instant of exposure and the proven Graflex focal plane shutter, are important Series D features.
OTHER FEATURES: Generous bellows length, built-in lens shade and ability to use cut film, foll film, film packs, or plates for added versatility.
MODEL DETAILS:
Revolving Back 3 ¼ x 4 ¼ Bellows Capacity: 8 ¼ inches, Lensboard 3 ¼ square, Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 6 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
Revolving Back 4 x 5 Bellows Capacity: 12 inches, Lensboard 3 ¾ square, Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 7 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
R.B. AUTO GRAFLEX
LONG BELLOWS DRAW: Permits full-sized pictures of specimens or subjects to be obtained. Ideal for large close-ups in extreme sharp detail.
INTERCHANGABLE LENSBOARD: Easy interchangeability of regular, convertible, and special purpose lenses gives the Auto Graflex broad versatility.
REVOLVING BACK & RISING FRONT: The revolving back greatly facilitates the take of horizontal and vertical pictures, while the rising front controls the foreground. Graflex focusing panel at the rear enables images to be measured or examined under magnification.
GRAFLEX FEATURES: Graflex full-vision focusing, focal plane shutter, and ability to use cut film, roll film, film packs, or plates are important features.
MODEL DETAILS:
Revolving Back 3 ¼ x 4 ¼ Bellows Capacity: 15 ½ inches, Lensboard 3 ¼ square, Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 7 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
Revolving Back 4 x 5 Bellows Capacity: 18 ½ inches, Lensboard 3 ¾ square, Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 9 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (25) from 1/5 to 1/1000 and T (time).
AUTO GRAFLEX 5×7
LONG BELLOWS DRAW: Permits full-sized pictures of specimens or subjects to be obtained. Ideal for large close-ups in extreme sharp detail.
INTERCHANGABLE LENSBOARD: Easy interchangeability of regular, convertible, and special purpose lenses gives the Auto Graflex broad versatility.
MODEL DETAILS:
Non-Revolving Back 5×7 Bellows Capacity: 12 inches, Lensboard 4-inch square, Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 7 ¼ inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds up to 1/1000 and T (time), Dimensions when closed: 9 ¼ x 8 ¼ x 9 ½, Weight 8 lbs. ** 1907 Catalog
PRESS GRAFLEX 5×7
LONG BELLOWS DRAW: Permits full-sized pictures of specimens or subjects to be obtained. Ideal for large close-ups in extreme sharp detail.
INTERCHANGABLE LENSBOARD: Easy interchangeability of regular, convertible, and special purpose lenses gives the Auto Graflex broad versatility.
MODEL DETAILS:
Non-Revolving Back 5×7 Bellows Capacity: 14 inches, Lensboard 4-inch square (flat), Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 7-inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds up to 1/1000 and T (time), Dimensions when closed: 11 x 8 3/8 x 9 ¾, Weight 10.5 lbs. ** 1907 Catalog
R.B. HOME PORTRAIT GRAFLEX
LENS-FRONT VERSATILITY: A lens front that raises, lowers, and tilts, at the same time accepting a wide selection of lenses, permits unusual lens manipulation and control.
PORTABILITY: The operator can move about freely, watching his subject in the focusing hood, ready to shoot his picture instantly.
LARGE SIZE PORTRAITS: Large images may be obtained with a 5×7 film size without approaching the subject too closely – an important feature of home portrait work.
MODEL DETAILS:
Revolving Back 5×7 Bellows Capacity: 13 ¾ inches, Lensboard 5-inch square, Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 10 inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds (24) from 1 second to 1/500 and T (time).
NATURALIST GRAFLEX
VERSATILITY: The Naturalists’ Graflex Camera is designed especially for naturalists’ work photographing birds, wild animals, or similar subjects requiring long-focus or telephoto lenses.
In general design and construction, the camera is similar to the regular Auto Graflex, but the increased camera length accommodates much longer side arms. These arms are made of heavy brass, giving a liberal extension yet maintaining absolute rigidity. The focus is obtained by reflection on the upper mirror. It enables the operator to conceal himself behind a stone or log and focus from the rear of the camera without exposing too much of his person, as would be the case in using the ordinary type of Graflex Camera.
The Naturalists’ Graflex will accommodate lenses of from 12 ¾ inches to 26 inches equivalent focus and is fitted with the regular Graflex Focal Plane Shutter.
MODEL DETAILS:
Non-Revolving Back 5×7 Bellows Capacity: 26 inches, Lensboard 4-inch square, Minimum focus of lens accommodated is 12 ¾ inches, Focal Plane Shutter Speeds up to 1/1000 and T (time), Dimensions when closed: 11 x 8 3/8 x 9 ¾, Weight 7 lbs. ** 1907 Catalog
Series B Camera Overview
Series C Camera Overview
Series D Camera Overview
Auto 5×7 Camera Overview
Home Portrait 5×7 Overview
I own several different models of the Graflex 4×5 large format SLR cameras. I currently own a Graflex Series B 4×5 SLR, a Graflex Series D 4×5 RB SLR with Graflok Back, and I am having a Graflex Press 5×7 refurbished by Jerry Gordon (Graflex Garage).
If you enjoy slowing down with film, darkroom printing, and meaningful photography, consider subscribing to my YouTube Channel. I share new videos each week focused on simple tools, timeless techniques, and the quiet joy of analog.
Graflex 4×5 SLR Overview
The Graflex 4×5 cameras were produced by the Graflex company from the early 1900s through the mid-20th century. Here is a summary of the various models and their production years:
Production Years
- Early Production: Early 1900s to around the 1950s
Various Models
Graflex RB Series B
- Production Years: 1923 – 1941
- Description: The RB (Revolving Back) Series B was a popular model that allowed for easier composition in both portrait and landscape orientations without having to rotate the camera.
- RB (Revolving Back) Online Manual
Graflex RB Series D
- Production Years: 1928 – 1947
- Description: The Series D offered improvements in shutter design and lens compatibility, providing photographers with more versatility and better performance.
- Graflex.org Series D info.
- RB (Revolving Back) Online Manual
Graflex RB Super D
- Production Years: 1941 – 1954
- Description: The Super D introduced further enhancements, including a faster shutter speed and improved focusing mechanisms, making it a favorite among press photographers.
- Graflex.org Super D info.
- RB (Revolving Back) Online Manual
Graflex RB Tele
- Production Years: 1928 – 1946
- Description: Designed for telephoto work, the RB Tele model featured a longer bellows extension and was ideal for capturing distant subjects with great detail.
Notable Features Across Models
- Revolving Back (RB) on Some Models: Allowed photographers to switch between portrait and landscape orientation without rotating the entire camera.
- Focal Plane Shutter: Provided a wide range of shutter speeds, essential for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- Interchangeable Lenses: Offered flexibility in choosing the right lens for different types of photography.
- Robust Construction: Camera bodies are constructed using mahogany wood and covered with Moroccan leather to ensure durability and reliability for professional use.
My Graflex Series B 4×5 SLR
This version of the camera does not have a rotating back (RB) to allow for landscape and portrait compositions. I do own an RB model, that is shown below.
My Graflex RB Series B 4×5 SLR
This version of the camera has the rotating back (RB) allowing for both horizontal and portrait compositions.
My Tips For Shutter Use
EXPLORE & CONNECT
I encourage you to go beyond the surface and explore my artist statements for Pictorial Whispers and America’s Grist Mills. Every technical and creative choice I make aligns with my projects’ narrative.
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The Graflex Series B was an SLR produced by Folmer & Schwing from 1923–1951. Two different models were produced in a few different sizes: The fixed back Graflex Series B was available in 3¼x4¼, 4×5, and 5×7; the Revolving Back (R.B.) was offered in 2¼x3¼, 3¼x4¼, 4×5.
I have the 4×5 fixed-back model, which I prefer because it is smaller and lighter than the revolving-back version.
It used plates or film, in a cut film magazine, slotted film holder, or roll film holder. I have film and plate holders, and a film magazine that holds 12 sheets of film! The old timers had this stuff figured out.
It has a top shutter speed of 1/1000 sec. The Graflex Series B was the lower price offering for the graflex SLR lineup throughout the 20’s and 30’s, with the 2¼x3¼ size remaining in production into the 50’s. Series B cameras are distinguished by their lack of dedicated lensboard and front standard, instead having a metal bracket with threading to accept a barrel lens. Some models had several lenses available for them. The 2¼x3¼ size camera can make use of the Graflex 22 and 23 roll film holders produced later. (The graphic type will not fit without modification.) [Wiki.]
The Series B and D have the same kind of back. The Series B does not have interchangeable lens boards, which limits the lens you can put on it. It also doesn’t usually have flash sync. Otherwise, they are very similar, with the B just being older and if you want a different lens, it requires you to be a little creative.
Here is a nice article about the Series B on the Ilford Photo website.
I bought this camera from Jon Haverstick. Description of the camera by Jon:
- 1928 Graflex Series B SLR (4×5) with case.
- Everything runs smoothly.
- Shutter speeds appear accurate.
- Leather coverings in great condition.
- The lens is clear, with no evidence of haze or fungus. The lens is a No. 32 Kodak Anastigmat 6-3/8″ f/4.5.
- Includes the original purple velvet-lined case.
Manual – https://www.cameramanuals.org/pdf_files/graflex_series_b.pdf
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
I found a 12-sheet “Bag Mag” cut film magazine and ordered it. Here is a video by Jon sharing what he figured out about the ingenious Bag Mag.
I was patient, and I eventually found a new/old stock-cut film magazine in the original box that had the original instructions!
Jerry (Graflex Garage) shared this helpful video tutorial on replacing the bag with a worn-out holder.
I found Graflex 4×5 Plate Holders with Film Sheaths (very rare). I use these holders for collodion dry plates for my historic grist mill and covered bridges project. Since it has sheaths, I can photograph the wild horses of Shannon County, Missouri, handheld using a faster film like Ilford HP5 and make Kallitype or Platinum/Palladium contact prints.
My Graflex RB Series D 4×5 SLR with Graflok Back
I bought this camera from Andy Anderson. It was a rare find for me because it had been modified by Fred Lustig before he passed away, and it had the Graflok back installed. This modification allows for standard non-slotted 4×5 film holders to be used and the Grafmatic film pack which allows six sheets of film. My camera is the RB (revolving back) model. The Series D is a less expensive version of the Super D and the features on the Super D that make it a Super D don’t matter to me, so the Series D is a good choice for me. The two most important features for my style of photography is the ability to mount different lenses, and the revolving back.
As you can see from the Graflex Catalogue Supplement below, the Series D was a special large format SLR camera. It was made of solid Mahogany wood, covered with genuine Morocco Seal leather, and had solid brass metal parts.
The Series D has the following features:
- Focal plane shutter with speeds up to 1/1000
- Automatic lens shield
- Removable lens board (~95mm x ~95mm) or (3.75 in x 3.75 in)
- Supplemental focusing scale
- Minimum Focus 7 inches
- Maximum bellows capacity 12 inches
- Weight: 6 lbs. 12 oz.
- Closed dimensions: 8 3/8 in x 6 3/8 in x 7 7/8 in.
Cut film, roll film, plates, as well as film packs can be used on the Series D.
The original cost of the camera was $100 and for an additional $50 to $75, the following lenses could be included:
- Kodak Anastigmat f/4.5 (Kodak No. 32 6 3/8″ or Kodak No. 33 7 1/2″). I have the No. 32 on my Series B camera.
- Carl Zeiss Tessa f/4.5
- Schneider Xenar f/3.5
- Schneider Tele-Xenar f/5.5
LENS OPTIONS
Graflex Super D 4×5 SLR Dream Camera
The Super D (wiki) is my dream handheld 4×5 SLR camera, along with the “bag mag” cut film magazine with 12 sheets of film.
Don’t let the fact that a large format 4×5 camera is an SLR. This is a game changer because you can look down the chimney viewfinder while you have film or plates loaded and take the exposure. Now, this is innovation courtesy of folks over 100 years ago.
The Super D is the newest model of the Graflex SLR cameras, and it has a really neat feature that allows the lens to remain wide open for bright focusing and then stop down to your desired aperture for exposure. Very clever indeed. I am patiently waiting for the right one. I have found several but am looking for one in mint condition.
The Graflex Series D and later Graflex Super D were SLRs produced by Graflex from 1927–1948 and 1941-1963, respectively. I would love to find a Super D 4×5 made in the 1960s. They came in 3¼x4¼ or 4×5 models, using plates or film, in cut film magazines, slotted film holders, or roll film holders. The top shutter speed is 1/1000 sec, same as my Series B.
Since my film and plate holders also work on the Super D, all I have to do is find a camera body, and I am off and running.
Daniel Waters mounted a 7 1/2-inch Verito soft-focus lens on the Graflex Super D 4×5, which is my dream combo.
Link to the general Graflex Wiki.
Graflix Series D/Super D history link.
Super D 4×5 Video Overview
Graflex Super D Gear Talk
EXPLORE & CONNECT
I encourage you to go beyond the surface and explore my artist statements for Pictorial Whispers and America’s Grist Mills. Every technical and creative choice I make aligns with my projects’ narrative.
To receive updates about exhibitions, new articles, and the latest information about my 19th century analog photography projects, enter your email in the form below and join me in celebrating the beauty and power of visual art.
Graflex Press 5×7 SLR Camera
Here’s an accurate summary of the 5×7 models:
Graflex 5×7 SLR Cameras
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 in working condition. 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
Graflex Press 5×7 SLR Refurbished
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.
The camera is about 11 lbs, and the body measures 11″ x 8 3/8″ x 9 3/4″ (LxWxH).
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 lenses from 7 inches (180mm) to 14 inches (355mm).
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. There are no special routed joints on the back of these lens boards. Just a flatboard is all I need, but some later models do have various recess cuts.
My Press 5×7 Before Photos
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 don’t shoot sheet film too much any more, but it is nice to have this in case I do, and I can also use it for paper negatives.
If you enjoy slowing down with film, darkroom printing, and meaningful photography, consider subscribing to my YouTube Channel. I share new videos each week focused on simple tools, timeless techniques, and the quiet joy of analog.
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.