Plate cameras – large format photography with character

A plate camera is an early form of large-format camera that uses individual film plates or sheet film. The camera usually consists of a wooden or metal housing with an extendable bellows and is mounted on a tripod .

The lens projects the image via a ground glass screen onto the film plate in the back of the camera. Focus is adjusted by extending the bellows. Exposure is achieved by opening a central shutter or by using a lens shutter and manual plate insertion.

Large formats such as 9×12 cm, 13×18 cm, or even 18×24 cm are typical. Modern sheet film is sometimes still available or can be cut to size. Adapter solutions allow the use of roll film in some cases.

Sheet film is still available for many formats—especially in the 4×5 or 5×7 inch range. For rarer sizes, expired stocks or roll film adapters are usually used.

In some cases, yes – with appropriate film holders or backs, 120 roll film can be used. Whether this is possible depends on the camera model.

In addition to film holders, a stable tripod and often an external light meter are necessary. Lens hoods can also be useful for large lenses.

Focusing is done via a ground glass screen on the back. This often requires a magnifying glass and a cloth for darkening. After adjustment, the film holder is inserted and exposed.

Either via the built-in lens shutter or—in older models—by manually removing the lens cap. A cable release helps ensure vibration-free shutter release.

For photographers who want to work in a controlled and relaxed manner—for example, in landscape, architectural, or studio photography. They are also popular with collectors and large-format beginners.

Our used plate cameras are manually inspected before sale and classified into the following condition categories:

• Good: Fully functional with typical signs of wear. Bellows tight, shutter working, and focus working.
• Acceptable: Functional with limitations or heavy external wear.

We test these functions:

• ✅ Locking mechanism
• ✅ Bellows for light tightness
• ✅ Focusing screen

Please note: Each camera is unique. Signs of wear, logos, or minor design differences between series are possible. A complete large-format inspection is not performed.

Delivery within Germany is usually 1–3 business days . You will receive a shipment confirmation with tracking information.

Yes – you can cancel your order within 1 month . You can find the details in our cancellation policy .

Each camera is tested for mechanical functionality. Information about limitations is clearly stated in the item description.

If accessories (film holder, focusing screen, bag) are included, this will be explicitly mentioned in the product description. Otherwise, only the camera is included.