changing bag vs. changing tent
I have a small changing bag for changing film in my 4x5 holders. It is a pain to use. I am using it either at home or in a small camper. The changing bag top is low and it seems very confining. Is there a difference between the changing bag and a tent? Is a changing tent a major improvement in functionality? If so, any recommendations on brands and/or models?
changing bag vs. changing tent
The 'tent' part of the name implies that the top of the 'bag' is supported above the frey. Tents tend to be larger as well.
changing bag vs. changing tent
Harley: I use a Harrison "Pup Tent". It rolls up for easy travel. While it works best on a table or desk, I have used mine in the car. I never travel without it.
changing bag vs. changing tent
Harley, I have the Photoflex tent. Come on by and take a look...
changing bag vs. changing tent
Hi Harley,
For handling 4X5 film holders, it would be very difficult to find a better changing tent than the Harrison Pup Tent. It's well worth the investment. If you are planning on moving up to a larger format in the future, invest a little more and get the larger sized Original Harrison Tent. You then have a piece of photo equipment that will last for a lifetime.
changing bag vs. changing tent
I have both a Harrison tent and a Photoflex tent. While the Harrison tent works fine, I much prefer the Photoflex - it "pops" up in an instant, is more spacious, has better arm positioning, more height and is just a better internal spac to stay organised. Another nice feature is a little "trash bag" which is attached internally via velcro. It's also far cheaper than the Harrison tent and can be bought as a Calumet labelled "Changing Room". Once you know how, you can fold it away in about 5 seconds...
changing bag vs. changing tent
I found a Photoflex used for a song - although I would guess the Harrison is of better quality. If I ever manage to wear out my Photoflex, I'll get one but in the meantime I love it and use it for all my "dark" requirements.
changing bag vs. changing tent
I have a changing bag; I have used a friend's changing tent. The tent wins, hands down (sorta, kinda a pun, I suppose!) Changing film is more accurate, faster, and cleaner in a tent than in a bag. The only down side is that changing tents are, in my humble opinion, too expensive. As it turns out, it is rather simple to come up with a pair of flexible poles which can turn a changing bag into a rudimentary (but still much improved) changing tent. And that's what I've done. :)
changing bag vs. changing tent
I have Calumet's "Changing Room." I'm pretty sure it's also sold by other vendors under other names. It is essentially a collapsible box with sleeves. My only gripe is that the sleeves are too high on the side of the bag to be comfortable working when seated at a normal table; I find it works well placed on another chair or something like a piano bench in front of where I'm seated.
changing bag vs. changing tent
You can also use a plastic show box and stuff it in the back of your changing bag...holds it up enough to let you change film and gives you one more storage box...