Infrared film with uncoated lenses

[moonwrack]

I want to try Kodak HIE (I have a few rolls left) with uncoated lenses. I think it might be impossible to load the film in complete darkness - a requirement - into a screw mount or M-mount Leica. The alternative would seem to be some sort of adapter to allow Leica lenses to be fitted to a SLR but I understand that these only exist in association with the Visoflex and so one is limited to close-focusing and/or longer focal length lenses.

- any ideas?

[zapp]

Originally Posted by moonwrack

I want to try Kodak HIE (I have a few rolls left) with uncoated lenses. I think it might be impossible to load the film in complete darkness - a requirement - into a screw mount or M-mount Leica. The alternative would seem to be some sort of adapter to allow Leica lenses to be fitted to a SLR but I understand that these only exist in association with the Visoflex and so one is limited to close-focusing and/or longer focal length lenses.

- any ideas?

Learn how to load the camera in complete darkness.

[moonwrack]

Thank you Zapp. Prior to processing, HIE can only be handled in total darkness. It is, indeed, possible to load any type of Leica in complete darkness. I was really thinking more in terms of the requirement to trim the leader when using Barnack models. All of which suggests using M-type bodies with a screw-mount adapter.

[tgray]

Yeah, and M (at least an M6) is doable because I've done it. I've never played with another type though, so can only assume its possible.

[brianv]

You could also pick up a Canon rangefinder, a Canon P would be a good example of an LTM camera that has convenient loading. Probably cheaper and more convenient than using an uncoated lens on an SLR.

[giordano]

Originally Posted by moonwrack

I want to try Kodak HIE (I have a few rolls left) with uncoated lenses. I think it might be impossible to load the film in complete darkness - a requirement - into a screw mount or M-mount Leica. The alternative would seem to be some sort of adapter to allow Leica lenses to be fitted to a SLR but I understand that these only exist in association with the Visoflex and so one is limited to close-focusing and/or longer focal length lenses.

- any ideas?

Loading a Leica in the dark is no worse than loading a developing tank. It just takes a bit of practice with a sacrificial roll of (non-IR) film.

Trimming the leader for a screw-mount camera in total darkness is a bit more difficult unless you have the template (ABLON?) that Leitz sold for just that purpose.

Again, practice makes perfect. If the film is in a Kodak cassette I expect it would be possible to trim the leader safely in a very dim green light - e.g. a Kodak #3, intended for developing panchromatic film by inspection. Better yet, get hold of a Leica reloadable cassette and (in total darkness) open the Kodak cassette and transfer the film and spool into the Leica one. Being all-metal the latter should block IR light and make it possible to trim the leader safely in subdued room lighting.

Good luck!

[moonwrack]

Thanks, John. Actually, I've just hit on the idea of using a second-hand Bessa L (or is that blasphemy in the context of this site?) now all I need is some means of fitting a red filter to 50mm and 90mm Elmars and a 35mm Summaron......