step-by-step guide to loading 120 film in medium format

Step-by-Step Guide to Loading 120 Film in Medium Format

Understanding 120 Film

Before diving into the loading process, it’s essential to understand what 120 film is. It’s a medium format film, which provides a larger negative size compared to 35mm film, allowing for more significant image detail and better quality prints. The film is 6 cm wide and comes in various frame sizes like 6×4.5, 6×6, 6×7, and so on, depending on your camera.

Gathering Your Materials

To load 120 film into your medium format camera, you’ll need:

1. Medium Format Camera – Ensure it’s compatible with 120 film.
2. 120 Film Roll – Choose your desired film stock based on sensitivity (ISO) and color preference (color negative, black and white, slide).
3. Changing Bag (Optional) – If you’re loading in bright light, a changing bag protects the film from exposure.
4. Scissors – For cutting leader if needed.
5. Marker – To label and keep track of your shots.

Step 1: Prepare Your Environment

If you’re outside in bright light, use a changing bag to maintain the film’s integrity. Open the changing bag, and ensure you have all materials at hand. If loading in a dark room is an option, you can skip this step, but ensure no light can compromise your film.

Step 2: Open the Film Box

Carefully open the box of your 120 film. Remove any packaging but keep the film canister intact. The film should be in a sealed black foil pouch until you’re ready to load.

Step 3: Identify the Film Orientation

120 film has a specific winding direction and must be loaded correctly to ensure the film moves through the camera properly:

• Film Emulsion: The side with a dull surface (emulsion side) faces the lens. Confirm by feeling the texture; the glossy side is the backing.

Step 4: Prepare the Camera

1. Remove the Camera Back: Depending on your camera model, find the release mechanism and take off the back.
2. Locate the Film Compartment: Generally, there are two rolling spools – a supply side for the new film and a take-up side for the exposed film.

Step 5: Attach the Film to the Camera

1. Insert the Supply Spool: Align the empty spool on the designated holder (usually on the left).
2. Insert the Film Roll: Position the roll onto the supply side, ensuring the film unwinds in a counterclockwise direction.

Step 6: Thread the Film

1. Pull the Film: Gently pull the film across the film gate, ensuring it rests evenly without twists or tension.
2. Secure the Film on Take-Up Spool: Wrap the film’s end around the take-up spool. Many cameras have a notch or slot to hold the film securely; engage it to prevent slippage.

Step 7: Advance the Film to the First Frame

1. Check Alignment: Review the film position to ensure it’s aligned properly on the spools and film path.
2. Advance the Film: While holding the camera back, advance the film using the camera’s winding mechanism. This action will create tension, ensuring the film is snugly fit.

Step 8: Close the Camera Back

1. Secure the Camera Back: Once everything is loaded, carefully reattach the camera back, making sure not to pinch the film.
2. Check the Film Counter: If your camera features a film counter, reset it to zero or position it to the first frame.

Step 9: Final Review

1. Visual Inspection: Double-check that the film is threaded correctly and that there are no kinks or creases.
2. Feel the Tension: You should feel adequate tension in the film; it should not be too loose or too tight.

Step 10: Start Shooting

1. Select Your Settings: Choose your aperture and shutter speed according to your scene and lighting conditions.
2. Shoot your Frames: Advancing the film after each shot by using the winding mechanism will prepare the camera for the next exposure.

Tips for Successful Loading

• Practice: If you’re new to loading film, practice with a dummy roll to gain confidence before using your final roll.
• Keep it Clean: Avoid any dust or dirt on the film to keep exposure clean and even. Be mindful of your hands as you handle the film.
• Stay Calm: Working quickly can lead to mistakes. Take your time to ensure everything is done accurately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect Film Orientation: Always ensure the film emulsion side is facing the lens.
• Overtightened Film: Too much tension can damage your film or camera.
• Forgetting to Advance the Film: Be consistent with advancing after each frame to avoid blank shots.

Conclusion

Loading 120 film into a medium format camera can initially seem daunting, but following these detailed steps ensures a smooth process. So, whether you are capturing stunning landscapes, portraits, or street photography, mastering this technique enhances your film photography experience.