Originally Posted by
TroyG
For the Camera:
I have just a sheet of black duvetyn that I think will do a fine job of being a dark cloth
A. Probably. I usually use a black t-shirt
For a loupe I was considering the Carson LumiLoupe Plus 11.5x due to its focusing ability and its cheapness
A. I don't know this loupe, but I have a cheap one, and an expensive one, and use them interchangeably.
I just bought a Soligor Spot Meter on eBay
I plan on starting on Arista EDU Ultra 100 film, again because its the cheapest 4x5 film and I'm sure I'll blow through it quick while I'm learning!
A. Good choices!
I did a fair amount of research and for the price/portability (I plan to travel with this camera) and I found the Slik 504QF-II System to be what I liked, but the load capacity is only 11lbs. I haven't weighed my camera but sources around the interwebs say its anywhere from 8-9lbs. Is this cutting it too close? Are there better tripods for view cameras in this price range?
a. That will be fine. Weight loads for tripods are calculated assuming unbalanced SLRs with long, heavy lenses. View cameras typically have similar loads in front and behind the tripod, making them more balanced, and enabling heavier loads on lighter tripods than would be advisable for an SLR.
Short of getting a carry-on sized bag and modifying it, the best option I can find is the (pricy) Think Tank Airport Security. Has anyone else found a better option? I wouldn't want to check the camera. Also, any thoughts on lead lined bags to protect film? I've traveled with ASA400 35mm film a lot and have never had adverse effects but is sheet film any more sensitive to the low level x-rays carry on bags see in the US?
A. I would check the camera, if you are checking bags. I check everything but film, unless I only have carry-on. I have used lead lined bags, but sometimes they ask to see inside. Just carry on your film and you should be fine.
For the developing:
I was thinking about the Ilford chemistry set (Ilfosol, Stop Bath, Rapid Fixer)
A. Should be fine.
Considering Kodak Photo-Flo but I hear mixed reviews on whether it is really necessary? The same thing with Hypo-Clearing agent, is it something I should use as well?
a. Some do, some don't.
I was considering getting a paterson two reel tank and using the rubber band "taco" method, any thoughts on that? Course I did just happen upon the SP-445 that looks like a much better option, thoughts there?
A. Both work (I just used my SP-445 for the first time tonight). I would prefer the SP, but if you have a tank, that will work.
I was looking at the Paterson changing bag, anybody use that kind? Any better options (short of lightproofing my bathroom)?
A. Changing bag works. I used one for several years, but now I usually change in a bathroom with no window, sealing the bottom of the door with a towel. This sometimes works best at night when lights in the hallway are turned off.
Also, I was thinking about how best to identify film holders in the dark and I thought if I made small engraved notches in the top of the film holder I can use a system to identify the holder number, and which side of the holder I'm "looking" at. Has anyone used any other sort of system? Is it safe to cut into the wood on the front of the holder so as to not poke a hole light can get through?
A. google around and you will eventually find a guide to marking holders. I did it, but seldom use them.
Sorry if I got way off track there, I just am trying to put this all together and I figure with the massive wealth of knowledge here even if only a small fraction of you weigh in, it will mean so much and I'm sure I will learn a lot! Also, if anyone has any recommendations for further reading outside the Ansel Adam's Series, I do love my research!
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