Large Format - In the Rain

[matt_kime]

I was wondering if anyone out there had experience using a 4 x 5

camera in the rain. A brief photo.net search turned up lots of

questions and solutions for using a 35mm camera. Some kind

of rain hood could really be useful for me, but I don't see any out

there for large format cameras.

[wayne_crider4]

I wonder if it has to do with all the accessory equipment that goes along with the format; Meters, always 2 for me, film holders, got to keep em dry, darkcloth, maybe it would be dark enough anyways, add a raincoat restricting movement for yourself, tripod etc etc and it all adds up. Still, I've thought of taking my Super Graphic and sticking an umbrella in the custom extending flash bracket that I made out of an old aluminum tripod, for cover. The thought of any wind, and a vivid imagination, gives me chuckles. I bet some do it tho, and I hope they share their experiences.

[matt_kime]

The only problem I really have is leaving the camera exposed in

the rain. Its easy enough to keep things reasonably dry in a bag

or in my coat. My coat also works as a dark cloth. Perhaps

standing and holding an umbrella is the best idea - attaching it

to the tripod or camera...well, that is funny.

[brian yarvin]

Hi:

 

I use a rig made from a Bogen Magic Arm and two Superclamps to attach

a large umbrella to my tripod. I have heard of people using patio

umbrellas to get even more coverage. (say on a commercial shoot...)

[david_goldfarb]

I like that umbrella trick, but doesn't that increase wind problems if you attach it to the tripod. I've seen a photograph of Paul Strand working in Italy with an assistant holding an umbrella, but I think that was for the sun.

[lee_shively]

I hate rain. In the past, I've used a 4x5 in conditions from a mist to a drizzle. I had no problems keeping things dry under these conditions. Anything wetter than that meant it was time to go in and have a cold one.

[scott bacon]

I've used a (cheap) rain poncho with the lens and bellows situated where your head would normally be. This worked in a pinch, but I wouldn't want to make a habit out of it.

 

I like the idea of clamping an umbrella to the tripod (Jack Dykinga mentions this in his latest book). But, as previously stated, beware of the wind. I can picture the horror that a 35 mph wind gust could cause.

[kevinoneil]

I use a backpack cover. It is large enough to go over the camera and act as a dark cloth. One end has a draw string so I can make that end small and attach it to the front standard, but still leave room to set the shutter and f/stop.

[andrew_ito]

I don't have any personal experience with this, but Ebony

Camera in Japan makes a combination raincover / focusing

cloth / lens shade. You can check it out at ebonycamera.com.

They also make an incredible view camera. I've got one of their

23s models and it is impeccably made and is perfect for my kind

of shooting. Good luck!<div></div>

[qtluong]

Actually, the camera does not need any protection. You just have to

try to avoid getting the lens too wet. The shutter can rust.

I have found that the compendium shade usually shelters enough

the front element, and I put something (like a hat)

on the top of the camera

to cover the gap between the compendium shade and the camera.

If I am close to the car, I'll have my home-made umbrella and clamp system.