Gday readers, since I started this project I’ve had a rather unlucky run of health problems which has slowed progress unfortunately. I am due for brain surgery by the end of the year, the good news it is in an easy spot and there should be minimal complications with relatively fast recovery! Following this I have returned to Sydney to continue studies while I still can before the operation. In the mean time, whilst away from the container I have started looking for equipment for the lab. I am hoping being closer to metropolitan areas will allow be greater accessibility to larger equipment although I am still unable to drive for another 12 months.
That said, designing within the ~12sqm space limitations of a shipping container is challenging but enjoyable as a ID student. The way I have approached it is through careful equipment selection and placement - acquiring items first then building the rest of the container around it to ensure most effective use of space. I have already secured some big ticket items that have defined the sizing of the wet and dry benches and the general layout so far.
Both of these items came all the was from Brisbane! My budget is limited so no fancy custom made stainless fittings here (no need really for such a simple setup). If you check my first blog post you can see the basic layout of where these fit, I am still working on finalising a detailed drawing now that I have a better idea what what equipment will go in there. The next major items on the list to source is the enlargers of course! I am searching for a LPL 4x5 (7452/4550XLG or older variants) preferably with a VCCE or Dichroic head and a De Vere 8x10 (5108). I have chosen these based on their relatively compact sizes and flexibility. For the LPL I really only require the head/neg stage (will be building integrated motorised columns) and for the De Vere wall-mount version is preferable. I plan to have these alongside my medium format and 35mm enlargers and have posted WTB across forums I frequent.
Photrio Forum Want To Buy Thread
I understand these are quite rare and large items, but if you know of anything available please get in contact with me or comment below. I am also interested in a range of other darkroom equipment that I will list below:
Additional 4x5 and 8x10 Photographic Enlargers
Film Drying Cabinets / RC Paper processors or dryers
Film processing equipment both manual or automatic
Range of large format enlarging lenses from 80-300mm
16x20, 20x24 or 30x40 inch easels and corresponding stainless developing trays
F/stop Enlarging Timers or other electronic timers
Alignment tools and/or spare parts for all of above
Any other relevant darkroom equipment
Any assistance is greatly appreciated! Speaking of equipment some time ago a obtained a great little upgraded Phototherm processor with a few tanks. It was in need of some minor repair work but luckily I am quite handy when it comes to that so if you have any ‘broken’ gear please let me know! Here is a short video of it all fixed up and running with 8-roll tank doing a water test, cycling pumps and heating solution all OK! (looking for a 4-roll tank to complete the set)
Hope you enjoyed the read and happy printing!