THE BIG PICTURE: The Ultra Large Format Contact Print – Mark Bingham
THE BIG PICTURE: The Ultra Large Format Contact Print – Mark Bingham
THE BIG PICTURE: The Ultra Large Format Contact Print – Mark Bingham
In the pre-digital age, Old Chief Mountain was a beloved subject of my early photographic efforts. It felt as if there was always something missing, some details lost or some feeling not completely captured with 35mm film. Later in life I discovered ultra large format photography (ULF). The leap from a 1.5 square inch negative to one of 160 or even 240 square Inches was life altering. The possibility of increased detail and emotional resonance was compelling.
Learning the process of shooting, developing, and printing ULF has been a long and challenging effort. ULF photography has a small but passionate community. It’s a tradition that is slowly fading and I hope to do my part to keep it alive by sharing its beauty and artistry, especially for those who are new to it.
In my own photography practice, I am drawn to the interplay of light and shadow, to contrast, texture and shape. I spend time scouting locations, waiting for just the right light, but ultimately, it is the serendipity of the moment that seems to produce the best shot. Developing the negative lets me know if the shot was successful enough to print. Then the big work of printing, reprinting and manipulating the exposure begins in the darkroom. When an image appears as I envision it, or possibly even better, it is magical.
I invite you to watch a short YouTube film by Austin Knibb and Kort Woycheschin titled “Everything You See”: https://youtu.be/dP6QbxX_nzw?si=2BoJADED4CKOJX5p
Mark Bingham has had a deep interest in analogue photography throughout his adult life. An elective class in university, multiple workshops in large format photography through the years, membership and participation in the Calgary Large Format Users Group helped to solidify his love for this work. Much of his training has come form years of self-directed study and life experience. Upon retiring from his working life, Mark has been free to pursue this most rewarding of hobbies. Since moving to Lethbridge, he has been fortunate to have an exhibit in the Joan Waterfield Gallery and to have been the subject of a brief YouTube video about his ultra large format photography.
Date:September 5th, 2026 - October 23rd, 2026
Location:Casa - Concourse Showcases
Casa Program Guide
The Casa Program Guide is produced three times a year; Winter, Spring/Summer and Fall. Inside the guide find listings for the upcoming class and workshop schedule, upcoming exhibitions at The Gallery, information about artists in residence and seasonal events in the building. Program guides are free. Pick-up guides at Casa or at facilities throughout the city.