What are these containers for?

AgX · Nov 21, 2019

https://bid.revereauctions.com/lots/view/1-2GR8UG/set-of-2-large-format-camera-film-containers

My first thought was "aerial photography", but there I have never seen film being handled other than still in the manufacturer's packaging or already on the spool within the camera film-magazine.

Though for intermediate storage such containers might make sense by saving on the bulky and costly magazines.

Their bayonet lock does not seem trustworthy though...

MattKing · Nov 21, 2019

Cirkut camera film?

AgX · Nov 21, 2019

Yes, but then why not use the original Kodak push-cap containers?

AgX · Jun 4, 2020

No more ideas?

Kino · Jun 4, 2020

They are obviously film magazines with velvet light traps and internal spools, but beyond that it could be for any number of types of cameras.

Custom, one-off designs are common in the Military and Scientific community. I used to run across many unidentifiable film magazines and cameras at defense surplus auctions. Usually, unless the item had a ID badge on the part, it was unidentifiable other than for implied function.

Vaughn · Jun 4, 2020

For 5" aerial film.

AgX · Jun 4, 2020

I was assuming all large format aerial cameras had the film on open reels in their magazines, but there are indeed models that take proprietary cassettes.

Vaughn · Jun 4, 2020

Perhaps for re-loading in-flight?

AgX · Jun 4, 2020

I know set-ups in big planes with complete magazines in racks. But yes, the use of cassettes might yield a volume and weight benefit, especially if feed and take-up cassettes would be interchangable.

Vaughn · Jun 4, 2020

The 5" rolls might have been for aerial cameras not permanently mounted...just a guess due to the smaller film size. If light tight = water tight, one might be able to drum process (rather awkwardly) a sheet of 4x5 film in one.

What are these containers for?

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