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Forums · NPN Discussion

Rain cover/dark cloth

Discussion

7 replies
Posted by Bret Edge on August 7, 2007 at 2:32 PM
I'm not sure why I never thought of this before but on a recent trip I needed to review some images on the LCD in bright sunlight. The glare was horrendous so I started digging through my pack for something to shade the screen when I came across the rain cover for my backpack. I found that it worked perfectly as an impromptu dark cloth. I've been using it for that purpose since and thought I'd share the tip with my fellow NPN'ers. I even use it when I'm setting up a composition as it helps me focus on only what I'm seeing through the viewfinder.

Hope you find it helpful!
Posted by William Vrolyk on August 8, 2007 at 10:18 AM
A great tip, Bret. Thanks. I just so happen to have a dark cloth. :cool:

We should start a collection of tips to share.

Will
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada

Posted by Curtis Knight on August 8, 2007 at 10:28 AM
I've used those $3 dosposable ponchos for the same purpose. They work great except they're a little bulky. Maybe I could cut one down and rig up some velcro to anchor the hood portion around my 70-200. hmmm...
Posted by Mark Windom on August 8, 2007 at 11:16 AM
The only thing I did keep when unloading my LF stuff was the dark cloth...works great for this purpose.
Posted by Bret Edge on August 8, 2007 at 1:06 PM
I considered buying a dark cloth for this purpose and never got around to it. I'm glad I didn't as I always carry the rain cover, thus lightening my load by a few ounces by not having to carry it AND a dark cloth. I know, what's a few ounces in the pack. They add up to pounds when you keep shaving them!
Posted by Pete D on August 8, 2007 at 8:47 PM
I have a dark cloth and a pack cover. Because I never got into large format the pack cover has been much more used. The one I have is waterproofed, so I have to think one wouldn't want to spend a lot of time under it. Pete D.
Posted by Bill Chambers on August 11, 2007 at 9:41 AM
Thanks Bret. I will often use my windbreaker in the winter for the same purpose, pulling it over my head for a moment and wrapping it around the camera. This past year I purchased the Hoodman Loupe for that purpose and have been pleased with that as well. It has a 2x magnification which helps with my old eyes. plus I can use it in warm weather when I'm not wearing my windbreaker. Link for the Hoodman is HERE.
Posted by Bret Edge on August 12, 2007 at 8:07 PM
Good to hear that about the Hoodman, Bill. I've seen it advertised but haven't known anyone who has used it. Thanks for the tip!