Mark Kapono

[larsco2002]

Has anyone had contact within the last 30 days with Mark Kapono (bellows maker in Hawaii). I will respond to contacts through the forum contact method or from my email .... larsco2002@yahoo.com. Thanks

Kuzano

[Jim Fitzgerald]

My personal opinion is that the guy is a flake. I almost had him make an 8x20 bellows for me. I was about to send the money when left the planet. My opinion is that he delivers a couple of bellows, gets a good review and than leaves the guys who have expensive bellows in the works holding the bag. Again, no personal experience, just my opinion. I don't like to bash anyone but I would never do business with him. Check some of the old post on this guy and contact the guys who are still waiting for their bellows and see what they have to say.

Jim

[PHOTOTONE]

It could be that he just doesn't have good "time management" skills, and gets overwhelmed with his "day" job sometimes. I think the bellows-making (for him) is a sideline. Of course, he is at fault for not having good communication when he gets bogged down and can't fulfill his orders in a timely manner.

[Don12x20]

As an alternative, consider tracking down the U.K. firm that builds the bellows for K B Canham.
His son Mark uses them for his shade business
http://www.canhamcameras.com/Bellows.html

(I have no financial or business relationship with either of the Canhams. I've just known Keith since his first efforts to build a view camera; He built my 12x20, 7x17 back in 1994.)

[Jim Fitzgerald]

It seems to me that Mr. Kapono should warn his potential clients of his poor time management skills! If you are starting a business then make it clear to your customers. If you are good at what you do and keep in touch and DELIVER you will have a loyal following. Read some of the old posts on this guy and make your own decision. Personally I would never send any money to him.

Jim

[Don Dudenbostel]

I emailed him about a month ago and he responded twice.

[Ian Leake]

Save yourself the hassle and try these guys: http://www.camerabellows.com/Replacement.html