Old 8×10

The term "Old 8×10" generally refers to an 8×10 inch photographic format used in large format photography. The "8×10" refers to the nominal dimensions of the film sheet used in cameras designed for this format: 8 inches by 10 inches.

The Old 8×10 format is considered a traditional and historically significant film format, predating smaller, more readily available formats like 35mm and medium format. Its widespread use dates back to the late 19th century and continued through much of the 20th century. While less common in contemporary photography due to the expense and logistical challenges, it retains popularity among fine art photographers, landscape photographers, and portrait photographers who value the exceptional image quality and detail it affords.

The large film size allows for significantly greater resolution and tonal range compared to smaller formats. This results in images that can be greatly enlarged without significant loss of detail, making them suitable for large prints and high-resolution scans. The shallow depth of field achievable with lenses used on 8×10 cameras also allows for selective focus and creative control over the image.

Using Old 8×10 equipment typically requires a significant investment in cameras, lenses, film holders, and developing equipment. The film itself is also more expensive than smaller formats. The process of taking a photograph with an 8×10 camera is generally slower and more deliberate, requiring careful composition and focusing. Sheet film must be loaded into individual film holders in complete darkness, and each exposure is a single sheet of film.