i have a main folder view that has thumbnails visible - is it possible to have a view for specific folders that turns thumbnails off?
You can use Folder Formats to change view modes* in different folders.
(*And columns, if you mean the Thumbnails column while in Details mode rather than Thumbnails mode itself.)
Best places to start to learn how they work:
- Folder Formats: Quick Guide
- Folder Formats: Detailed Guide
- Folder Options and the sections below it in the manual.