Intro to Large Format Photography with Sean Sirota: August 1 & 2
Intro to Large Format Photography with Sean Sirota: August 1 & 2
Intro to Large Format
Any changes to the program will be announced online.
All programs and events are held at Penumbra Foundation.
36 E. 30th St. New York, NY, 10016
(917) 288-0343 | info@penumbrafoundation.org | penumbrafoundation.org
Image © Sean Sirota
Saturday & Sunday
August 1 & 2
10 AM - 6 PM
Class Size Max: 4
This course offers a comprehensive introduction to photographing with a 4x5 view camera. Large-format photography offers unparalleled image quality and precision, inviting photographers into a slow, deliberate process that fosters a deeper connection with their subjects. In this hands-on weekend workshop, students will learn every aspect of operating a 4x5 camera, from loading film holders to composing and properly exposing images both in the studio and in the field, developing negatives, and making contact prints in the darkroom to take home. Perfect for those curious about large-format photography, this class provides the technical skills and hands-on experience to begin exploring this rewarding medium.
Students should have familiarity with the fundamentals of photography (exposure, aperture, shutter speed, ISO). Experience with manual or semi-manual cameras (film or digital) is helpful but not required. The workshop will cover all aspects of operating a 4x5 view camera, but students should be comfortable with adjusting basic camera settings.
Students are encouraged to bring their own 4x5 cameras, but it is not necessary as cameras will be provided for use during class time. Tuition includes 25 sheets of Ilford HP5 per student and RC paper for making contact prints.
Tuition includes a $90 materials fee
If your desired tuition option is unavailable, please email info@penumbrafoundation.org and we will do our best to accommodate you. If the entire class is sold out, we can add you to the waitlist.
Sean Sirota (b.1995, Brooklyn) is a photographer whose images reflect everyday life's lyrical and intimate moments. He has photographed for publications such as The New York Times, Time Magazine, The New Yorker, and Vogue Magazine and has been a high school photography teacher for nearly a decade.
Sirota is currently pursuing his MFA at the Yale School of Art and was a participant in Penumbra’s 2025 Long Term Program: The Photobook.
Images © Sean Sirota and previous Penumbra students


