Dealing with exposed sheet film

[Zou]

I got my Zero 45 today along with a box of film. Quick novice question - once a sheet of film has been exposed, what's the best way of keeping it away from the light until it is developed? Do you drop it into a spare box, or can you get lightproof dark envelope type things to re-use?

[huwevans]

I just use a spare old film box and inserts, if I have to store it before processing. Of course, the easiest and safest thing to do is just to dev it when you unload the DDSs.

[zx9]

I thought that they used a normal 'Double Dark Slide', you go out with 5 DDS and return with 10 exposed sheets of film.
Film used to be supplied in boxes with two lids, sort of like a box of paper but turned upside dome with another lid places on top. These boxes make an effective light seal to keep exposed film in, but to be extra sure you could keep the box in a changing bag.
I have not used 5X4 for almost 20years but I doubt the packaging has changed that much.
Hope you enjoy the 54 zero, looks like it could get expensive

[LargeFormat]

If you are developing yourself I'd leave the exposed film in the dark slide. Develop a protocol for turning round the slide to identify whether the film is exposed.

If you are sending it away for processing and cannot be sure of having the dark slides returned use the old film box. Give clear instructions how it is packed. I suggest the envelope then two inverted boxes although you will quickly run short of boxes.

Years ago I remember hunting around for some sort of light tight container without success. Perhaps someone knows better.

[Zou]

Thanks for the ideas. I only have two DDSs, so 4 pics. I have a changing bag, so was hoping to be able to (when necessary) reload in the field, so to speak, hence the desire to safely store the negs before developing a batch later.

[huwevans]

Have you considered Readyloads/Quickloads? I'm not all that fond of them myself, but they would certainly be an easier option than reloading DDSs in the field, and lighter weight than carrying more DDSs.

[Zou]

I would if I could afford them Huw. Not just that the holder is expensive, but the film cost is prohibitive.

[huwevans]

Well, yes, it's certainly a more expensive option - that's why I dislike them myself. But there's no doubt it's a very convenient way of carrying and shooting larger amounts of film.

[DaveS]

I remember reloading in the field with a changing bag, it was such a pain that I stumped up for more DDSs, so I've got 12 of the so-and-sos now. Funny, I haven't shot LF for too long since going digital, I think I need to rediscover the discipline, too much "chimping"
Dave

[pilliwinks]

When I first started I did at least have a daylight developing tank, and used that to store exposed film in until I had emptied my first box. Just make sure you mark the boxes as "exposed"!

[Rhys]

I used to put my exposed sheets in a spare box. If you send them away then I would wrap some insulation tape round it so it can't be accidentally opened and write EXPOSED on it.

I haven't used LF in donkies years but still have some DDS's knocking around and even some film hangers for drying film when devved (the ones with the little crock clips on the corners) The things you pick up..

One day I might try film again for the novelty value
Might get an MPP when funds permit, quite liked using one of those - other fave was a Sinar Wolf but that's no good for outdoors stuff.