How to Properly Handle and Load 120 Film

Understanding 120 Film

120 film is a roll film format widely used in medium format cameras. Unlike 35mm film, it doesn’t come in a cassette. Instead, it’s wound on a spool with a paper backing that protects the film from light exposure before and after the shot. The film is typically available in various lengths, offering different numbers of exposures depending on the camera’s format (e.g., 6×6, 6×7, 6×4.5).

Before handling 120 film, it’s vital to be aware of its sensitivity to light. Even with the paper backing, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fog the edges of the film, leading to undesirable results. Therefore, always load and unload your camera in subdued light or shade.

Familiarize yourself with the different types of 120 film available. These include color negative, black and white, and slide film, each offering a unique look and requiring different processing techniques. Choose the film that best suits your creative vision and the capabilities of your camera.

Preparing Your Camera

Before even touching the film, ensure your camera is ready to receive it. This involves several key steps:

• Check the camera’s compatibility: Confirm that your camera is indeed designed to use 120 film.
• Clean the film compartment: Use a soft brush or cloth to remove any dust or debris from the film chamber and rollers. This prevents scratches and artifacts on your images.
• Locate the take-up spool: Identify the take-up spool, which is where the exposed film will be wound. Ensure it’s properly seated in its designated slot.
• Understand the film path: Study your camera’s manual to understand the correct path the film should follow from the supply spool to the take-up spool.

A clean and well-maintained camera is essential for reliable film transport and optimal image quality. Taking the time to prepare your camera properly will minimize the risk of mechanical issues and ensure a smooth shooting experience.

Loading 120 Film: Step-by-Step Guide

Loading 120 film can seem daunting at first, but with practice, it becomes a straightforward process. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Find a shaded area: Avoid direct sunlight. Load the film in a shaded area or indoors with subdued lighting.
2. Open the camera back: Refer to your camera’s manual for instructions on how to open the film compartment.
3. Insert the supply spool: Place the new roll of 120 film into the supply spool chamber. Ensure the film is oriented correctly, usually with the paper backing facing outwards.
4. Thread the film: Gently pull the paper backing across the film path and thread it onto the take-up spool. Some cameras have markings to indicate the correct threading position.
5. Advance the film: Use the film advance knob or lever to wind the film onto the take-up spool. Continue winding until the start mark on the paper backing aligns with the indicator in the camera window.
6. Close the camera back: Carefully close the camera back, ensuring it’s securely latched.
7. Advance the film again: Advance the film until the frame counter displays “1” or the appropriate starting number for your camera. This step ensures that the first frame is positioned correctly for exposure.

Pay close attention to the alignment of the start mark and the secure closure of the camera back. These are critical steps to prevent light leaks and ensure accurate frame spacing.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced photographers can sometimes encounter issues when loading 120 film. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

• Light leaks: Ensure the camera back is securely closed and that the light seals are in good condition. Replace damaged light seals to prevent unwanted light from entering the camera.
• Incorrect threading: Double-check that the film is threaded correctly onto the take-up spool and that the start mark is properly aligned. Refer to your camera’s manual for guidance.
• Film not advancing: Make sure the take-up spool is properly seated and that the film is not snagged or jammed. If the film is not advancing, gently try to re-thread it.
• Forgetting to remove the dark slide (if applicable): Some cameras have a dark slide that protects the film before the first exposure. Remember to remove it before taking your first shot!

By being aware of these potential pitfalls and taking preventative measures, you can minimize the risk of errors and ensure a successful shooting session.

Unloading 120 Film

Once you’ve finished shooting a roll of 120 film, it’s equally important to unload it correctly to protect your exposed images. Here’s how:

1. Wind the film completely: Continue winding the film onto the take-up spool until the entire roll is transferred and the paper backing is securely wrapped around it.
2. Open the camera back: Open the camera back in a shaded area or indoors with subdued lighting.
3. Remove the take-up spool: Carefully remove the take-up spool containing the exposed film.
4. Seal the film: Secure the loose end of the paper backing with the provided adhesive strip to prevent the film from unwinding and being exposed to light.
5. Store the film properly: Store the exposed film in a cool, dry, and dark place until you’re ready to develop it. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity.

Proper unloading and storage are crucial for preserving the quality of your exposed film. Handle the film with care and protect it from environmental factors that could damage the images.

Troubleshooting

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you might encounter unexpected problems when handling 120 film. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Film is stuck: If the film is stuck and won’t advance or rewind, don’t force it. Open the camera in a darkroom or changing bag and carefully try to identify the cause of the jam.
• Uneven frame spacing: Uneven frame spacing can be caused by a faulty film transport mechanism. Consult your camera’s manual or a repair technician for assistance.
• Blank frames: Blank frames can indicate that the film was not properly loaded or that there was a problem with the shutter. Check your loading procedure and the camera’s functionality.
• Fogged film: Fogged film can be caused by light leaks, improper storage, or expired film. Ensure your camera is light-tight and store your film correctly.

If you’re unable to resolve the issue yourself, it’s best to seek professional help from a camera repair technician. They can diagnose and fix more complex problems.

Tips for Success

Here are some additional tips to help you master the art of handling and loading 120 film:

• Practice makes perfect: Practice loading and unloading film with an old roll until you feel comfortable with the process.
• Read your camera’s manual: Your camera’s manual is your best resource for specific instructions and troubleshooting tips.
• Keep your equipment clean: Regularly clean your camera and lenses to prevent dust and debris from affecting your images.
• Store your film properly: Store both unexposed and exposed film in a cool, dry, and dark place.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment: Try different types of 120 film and explore different shooting techniques to discover your own unique style.

With patience, practice, and attention to detail, you’ll soon become proficient in handling and loading 120 film, unlocking the creative potential of medium format photography.

Conclusion

Properly handling and loading 120 film is a fundamental skill for any medium format photographer. By understanding the characteristics of 120 film, preparing your camera carefully, and following the correct loading and unloading procedures, you can minimize the risk of errors and ensure a smooth and rewarding shooting experience. Embrace the unique qualities of medium format photography and enjoy the journey of creating stunning images with 120 film.

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