[LargeFormat] Bellows in cold weather

[Bob Younger]

John,

I've had my Linhof STV (4x5) as well as my Deardorff (8x10) out in cold
weather and have never had any problems with the bellows. (My fingers, nose
and toes were falling off, but the cameras worked fine.) The Linhof has
leather bellows, and the Deardorff something else. Your more likely problem
will be your shutters if the lenses get too cold and your last CLA was done
with too much lube, or the wrong lubricant. Whatever you do, don't try to
blow that small piece of dust off after the lenses have dropped to ambient
frigid. It's amazing how much moisture is in your breath; and how long it
takes to clear, ESPECIALLY JUST AS THE SUN IS CRESTING THE HORIZON.

I have carried my 4x5 lenses in pockets on the inside of my coat; but the
Deardorff lens and board combination is just too big. So far though, not a
problem.

Have a great time. Get yourself some gloves with the fingers cut out.

Bob Younger
San Diego, California, USA

----- Original Message -----
From: "John Harmon" <john@johnharmon.com>
To: <largeformat@f32.net>
Sent: Friday, December 21, 2001 6:06 AM
Subject: [LargeFormat] Bellows in cold weather


> Hi folks,
> I recently purchased a 8x10 Century Universal camera that has a leather
> bellows. I'm planning on do some shooting in the cold and snow. What
> precautions should i use in these conditions.
> Should I extend my bellows before it gets cold?
> What treatments do people use on leather bellows?
> Also looking to purchase 5x7 & 8x10 filmholders and a 8x10 enlarger if
> anyone one is selling.
> I would like to thank Clive and every one else for the time they take in
> replying to this list. I would not be doing largeformat without it!
> Have a safe and
> Merry Christmas!
> John
> John Harmon Images, Inc.
> www.JohnHarmon.com
> Berea, Ohio
>
>
>
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