Moving to L.A -Advice-

[Wayne Campbell]

Don't.

If you do, prepare to spend half your life stopped in traffic.

[Per Volquartz]

Wayne's got a point!!!

[John Kasaian]

...And bring plenty of money to pay your electric bills, especially if you're running 220, our Governor decided we should pay more than anybody else for electricity.

[QT Luong]

I wouldn't worry too much about local resources. In the US, it is a common practice to use mail-order if you can find cheaper sources elsewhere. Personally I hardly use local camera stores and labs, although there are good ones in my area. Although they are a bit difficult to find, there are high powered 110 to 220 V converters. I use one for a Rollei Twin projector. Beware of the frequency difference that has been mentioned.

[Erik The Viking]

Guillaume

Look for a Sola Hevi Duty step-up transformer of the appropriate VA. Brand-new, they are expensive but you can often find them at much reduced prices at surplus electronics stores. Do a search on Google.

[David Karp]

I second Mel Pierce for LF repairs. I wanted to have two Rodenstock lenses switched from Sinar DB mounts to Copal shutters. It seemed like I called every repair shop in LA, and Ray at Mel Pierce repair was the only person who understood what I was talking about. He made the switch and calibrated the apertures. He did a great job.

For sales, try Mario Jennings at Mel Pierce. He will take good care of you. Also, talk to John Richardson at Calumet. He is an excellent large format photographer who works in platinum. He will also take very good care of you. Calumet also has a brand new store. It is very nice. In addition to A&I for E-6, if you are in the San Fernando Valley, try Advanced Photo Lab. Talk to Jacob. For rentals, try Calumet, Samy's, and PRS.

[Bob Salomon]

"Ray at Mel Pierce repair"

Except Ray is no longer at Mel Pierce

[David Karp]

Bob:

"Except Ray is no longer at Mel Pierce"

Oh no! Is he still in the repair business? Very helpful, does great work.

[Bob Salomon]

Still in the Repair business just not at the old place. Mario should be able to tell you where to reach him now.

[David Karp]

Thanks Bob.