Film changing tents

Comments on film changing tents please, they sound like the complete answer out in the field, any downside? Thanks.

i dont know

I recently purchased the Photoflex Changing Room. Retail is about $70, or half the price of Harrison tents. Plenty of room inside for 4x5 work, and should be fine for 8x10.

I'm very pleased with the Photoflex. Only downside is the somewhat large size when collapsed. Its about an 18" oval, but it lays flat in the carry bag. The one I have is the new "Platinum Series" model.

Ian, I use the Calumet - I'm very pleased with it, BUT it is a bit on the large side to take out in the field, but great for changing holders at the end of the day when away from the darkroom (hotels etc!).

They're awkward to carry around when collapsed and it's one more place to clean dust out of. On the other hand, they're cheaper than readyloads...

Dean

I have used a Harrison Film Pup Tent for years for 4x5 on extended photo trips, and I love it. Plenty of room to work inside. I usually load film in it at home rather than in the darkroom, it is that convenient. It is quick to set up and break dow n. I have made light tests with HP5 film in full sun, so I am confident in the unit. It comes in a tote bag 15 inches long, 5 inches in diameter, 1-1/2 pounds.

All positive.

Ian,

I also have the Calumet. It was pretty cheap, and functions just fine. It is a t ad bit cramped for 5x7, but should work great for 4x5. It often travels with me, although when folded down, it is a bit too wide to fit into many of my bags. One does have to be careful to keep it clean inside. I wipe mine down now and then. Someone somewhere complained about the tight 'arms' scrapeing his/ her arms, and scattering skin bits on the inside of the tent--this could be a problem! Overall, it does what I need it to do, and would buy it again.

Harrison! Harrison! Harrison! They are worth the money. Light, durable, and somehow never seem to be dust magnets no matter where they are used.

dgh

I have used the Calumet and the Photoflex. The design is virtually identical except the arm holes are in different places. I prefer the Photoflex arrangement. I bought a Calumet because it was on sale and I am cheap.

If I were to do it again, I'd get a Photoflex. Given more cash, I'd look into the Harrison.

I have had the Photoflex for about 7 years and it works nicely.

Very useful in the field. That way you don't have to find a motel bathroom to turn into a darkroom.

I just bought the Harrison 4 x 5. I am new to large format and it seemed to me to be a no brainer.

Greetings,

You didn't mention what formats you're shooting, but I've owend both Photoflex and Harrison. The Photoflex works very well, but a bit small IMHO for 8x10 and it doesn't pack very well. The Harrison (not the pup tent) is better for 8x10 and packs up in a roll, which packs easier. I only use the Harrison tent now.

Regards,

Out of curiosity, has anyone tried the Red Wing changing tent? They make a lot of cine stuff, so I gather this is mainly marketed to that crowd, but it looks pretty large, and I know one needs a large tent for those big 35mm mags. I came across it in the B&H Lighting Sourcebook while looking for something else. The folded size is around 16x20". I'd be interested in something big enough for 11x14", so I'll probably eventually end up with the Jumbo Harrison, but thought this might be worth looking into at $54 B&H price.