Soft Case for Super Speed Graphic ?

So I plan on taking my recently-restored super speed graphic on a photographic tour, mostly shooting city scenes and landscapes, mostly using it handheld (if I can get the knack) and mostly using grafmatic holders instead of the regular Riteway/Fidelity 2 fers. I carry the camera using a strap that I hang around my neck, which works for short distances but I need an actual case to put the camera into -- something that can be shock-absorbing, water-resistant, not too bulky, easy to open up, and doesn't scream "Hi! I am a camera! Come steal me!"

I was thinking of sewing something myself using sheets of neoprene rubber. I could also sew a pocket as a film/grafmatic holder. Any problems with outgassing by the neoprene? Any experience sewing neoprene?

What are your choices/ideas on the matter?

aslanivo said:

I need an actual case to put the camera into -- something that can be shock-absorbing, water-resistant, not too bulky, easy to open up, and doesn't scream "Hi! I am a camera! Come steal me!"

What are your choices/ideas on the matter?

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For my 8x10 I purchased one of those soft ice chests. They are inexpensive, waterproof and the insulating material provides a decent amount padding.

It doesn't scream steal me unless the thief is very hungry or thirsty!

-Bob

For carrying my Tech V around the city, I usually just carry it over my shoulder, or switch to around the neck when I'm shooting more actively. I highly recommend the medium sized Calumet strap (the largest one short of a luggage strap) with the air pockets.

I had some belt packs made that hold 3 Grafmatics with a small pocket for small accessories or a pencil and pad by a guy who goes by "ted.b" on eBay. You can see if he has some up for auction or just e-mail him directly, and he'll make them to order. The price is very reasonable, and I think he's made some improvements to them since he made mine. Other options--the Ex Officio safari-style shirts have pockets that are large enough for a Grafmatic, and many coat pockets are large enough for Grafmatics.

A Gossen Digisix or Digiflash is a very compact meter for the field with this setup.

If you want a bag, I recommend the Crumpler Fux Deluxe with the photo insert, which is a messenger-style bag and has room for a full 4x5" kit. You could probably go with a smaller one than the Fux Deluxe, if you're not carrying too much. There's a Crumpler store in Soho (NYC, not London--are you in NYC like it says in your profile or the UK like your website?), if you want to try them out.

I have an old laptop backpack. It works well for my B&J press camera. It has a padded insert that fits in side the backpack. My wife made a quilted bag with velcro to hold some film holders.

Matt

I carry the Crown Graphic in one of those soft sided coolers made to hold a six pack. It's not completely water proof but it is pretty water resistant and, stealthy to boot!

I agree on the soft cooler. There are some that are better consturcted than others. Check the places that focus on hunting and camping for better ones.

And in addition to the padding, and the "stealth", it helps keep your film cool in the summer.

Soft-sided cooler are a great idea -- I use one right now for my digital.
Problem is that the season for beverage coolers is over . . .

Check out this one: http://www.mountainsmith.com/store/...&category_id=419d0f5354fdb0389b989eac50f849d3

It's what I have for my 8x10. It's not as cheap as one of those ones available everywhere in the summer, but, I think it's a Bargain for what it is (and it come with a can opener; we know how handy those are while out shooting!)

I just wanna buy a Fux Deluxe b/c I am childish and like the name

I use a square Quantaray bag I bought years ago, holds the Crown, 6 holders, darkcloth and changing bag nicely... can squeeze a few more holders and 50-pack of film when needed. Look at some of the video camera bags, usually low-profile, double-pull opening and often cheaper.

thedarkroomstudios said:

I just wanna buy a Fux Deluxe b/c I am childish and like the name

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Ain't no better reason to buy anything!