blue_sun408 Posted February 27, 2007 Share Posted February 27, 2007 Hello everyone. I have been using MF for many years now and I am seriously considering adding LF to the lineup. I realize that the selection for LF gear in Toronto is almost non existent (with the exception of Harry's Pro Shop), so I have been looking at distributors such as Midwest Photo Exchange, and Badger Graphic Sales as these two seem to be the most popular choices with people here at photo.net. So I guess my question is, has anyone in Toronto had first hand experience purchasing LF gear from either Badger or Midwest, any problems with customs, etc.? Just trying to get some feedback. Thanks, Steve. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
leica ron Posted February 27, 2007 Share Posted February 27, 2007 I've bought lots of gear from the US, there has never been any problems with customs as long as the items are labelled 'photographic equipment'. You'll always pay taxes though (GST + PST). The best sipping method is USPS Global Express. Absolutley avoid UPS Ground. At Midwest always ask for Jim, some of the others I've dealt with were a little slimy. Geoff at Badger is a top guy. No complaints what so ever. I've been lucky with Ebay. I've also bought a lot of stuff from Brian at Harry's Pro Shop, a very good source. Also look up www.bigcameraworkshops.com, run by Rob Skeoch in Burlington. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bohdan_pryszlak Posted February 28, 2007 Share Posted February 28, 2007 Have you visited International Camera on Queensway Ave? Stan has a case full of LF lenses and usually a couple of bodies. Also, check out the used equipment shows held throughout the year - I bought my Tech III at one and I have been very happy with it. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Ian Taylor Posted February 28, 2007 Share Posted February 28, 2007 Brian didn't have a lot of stuff when I was last over there recently. You can check it all on his site. I reckon the best thing is to watch E-buy, there's lots for sale in Canada. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
capocheny Posted February 28, 2007 Share Posted February 28, 2007 Steven, Depending on what sort of LF gear you're looking for... you might contact Rob Skeoch at: www.bigcameraworkshops.com Great guy to deal with and is a regular contributor on a number of LF forums! Cheers Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
aplumpton Posted February 28, 2007 Share Posted February 28, 2007 Did you try Eight Elm Photo in Toronto? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
timbowles Posted February 28, 2007 Share Posted February 28, 2007 Rob at Big Camera workshops gets another vote from me. I recently got into LF through him, and he was awesome. I will continue to buy film through him (I'm in Winnipeg). Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
capocheny Posted March 1, 2007 Share Posted March 1, 2007 Tim, I'm in Vancouver and STILL buy my films from Rob! :) He carries Ebony, Wehman, Shen-Hao and other gear... what did you pick up from him? Cheers Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
blue_sun408 Posted March 1, 2007 Author Share Posted March 1, 2007 Thanks to everyone for your help and suggestions. I have a few more avenues to explore regarding LF equipment purchases. H.C., I think I will get in touch with Rob Skeoch. I checked out his website...looks interesting, thanks. Great suggestions and tips as well from Ron, Bohdan, Ian, Arthur, and Tim. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
timbowles Posted March 3, 2007 Share Posted March 3, 2007 H.C.: I picked up a Shen Hao 5x7 (HZX57-IIAT)and an Apo-Sironar-N 180/5.6 It's a thing of beauty. Tim Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
michael_taylor9 Posted March 9, 2007 Share Posted March 9, 2007 Nice people at Eight Elm and a huge selection at Vistek (Queen St.East) You can also rent at Film Plus on Symington at Dupont and Vistek has a vast rental dept. The rental program at Film Plus is my choice. I go there from Peterborough. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
blue_sun408 Posted March 9, 2007 Author Share Posted March 9, 2007 Thanks Michael, I'll check them out as well. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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