For the week prior to and of Thanksgiving I had the opportunity to travel to Washington DC on business, so I decided to take the plunge and travel with my LF gear. So, I thought I might share some thoughts about the experience. Before hand I checked with the carrier (United) and TSA about their most recent standards as well as reading what everyone here had to say. After doing so I packed my 4x5, 3 lenses (90mm Angulon, 135mm Sironar S, and 240mm Fujinon), Quickload holder and film, Polaroid holder and film, and vest with lightmeter and other essentials into a large Timbuk2 messenger bag. I carried my tripod in its padded bag. My suitcase with clothing a toiletries was packed as usual. I chose to check my suitcase, which was easily done, and attemt to carry-on my equipment. Going through security at Dallas/Ft. Worth airport was very simple with no problems at all with questions or extra searches. The TSA employee manning the machine was being supervised at the time and she didn't know what she was looking at, but to my amazement her supervisor immediately began pointing things out on the screen, i.e. that's a camera, there's the film, those are lenses, etc. My next worry was would they say anything at security or at boarding with regard to the tripod, and again I had no difficulties what so ever.
For my return flight from Reagan International security was just as easy with no difficulties. The TSA employee there asked me, "That's camera gear, right?" So, my experience thus far, though limited to only two attempts through security, was exceptional with no problems.
On another note my film (Fuji Provia and Polaroids) was not fogged in the process. I was able to come home with some pleasing images considering this was my first real foray into LF in over 15-years. I chose to have film processed at Chrome in Georgetown and am very pleased with the results. Great customer service, quick, and they did a nice job. A little more expensive than here in Texas, but so is the beef.
---Ed
Bookmarks