Loading 35mm Film in a SLR Camera
Watch this video showing how to load a camera:
The most common question we get asked at PhotoLounge is how to load a film camera. There are a few types of 35mm film cameras, but the differences between them are subtle, so once you know how to use a film camera and how to load 35mm film into one camera, it is pretty straightforward to load many other models as well.
The thorough instructions below show how to load a manual single lens reflex (SLR) film camera. If you’ve ever asked “what is an SLR camera?” — SLR stands for single-lens reflex, a type of camera that uses a mirror and viewfinder system to help you compose your shot. Many popular 35mm cameras, including models from Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Kodak, follow a similar loading process. It is important to follow these steps in order to avoid any damage to the film as you are photographing. Follow the instructions below, but if you want to come into PhotoLounge and have us take a look at your camera or go over how to load your camera, we are happy to help you. No appointment is necessary.
If you’re brand new to shooting film, this guide focuses specifically on how to load a 35mm SLR camera.
If your main concern is making sure the film actually catches and advances correctly, see our related guide: How to Load 35mm Film Correctly and Save Your Shots for extra troubleshooting tips.
Steps to Load Film in a 35mm SLR Camera
Open the SLR Camera
#1. On the top left hand side of the camera lift up on the rewind knob. There may be a little bit of resistance.
Note: There also might be a small safety lock that you will need to pull towards you as you lift up on the rewind knob
#2. The back of the camera should pop open and look similar to the image below:
#3. Be careful not to touch anywhere on the rectangular panel between the film chamber and the take up spool as well as the one on the inside of the door to the back of the camera (areas highlighted in photo above).
These areas are sensitive parts of the camera and should stay clean to avoid affecting your images.
Position the Film in the Camera
#4. Place the film cartridge with the film leader facing towards you into the film chamber located on the left hand side
#5. Depress the rewind knob so it locks your film in place
#6. Pull the film leader across to the take up spool located on the right hand side
#7. Take the end of the film leader and feed it into a slot in the take up spool
#8. Make sure the holes on the edges of the film align with the notches on the top and bottom of the film sprocket roller
Check the Position of the Film
#9. Check that your film is loaded properly by depressing the shutter release button
#10. Crank the film advance lever slowly. The film leader should wrap around the take up spool smoothly
#11. Double check the film is a lined with the film sprocket rollers
#12. Close the back of the camera until you hear a snap
Advance the Film
Remember, film is light sensitive. When loading your film into the camera you exposed your film to direct light which means that it cannot be used to take a photograph. You need to advance the film a few exposures so you can be sure that your photographs will be captured.
#13. Depress the shutter release button then crank the film advance lever a couple times
#14. As you do this look at the top of the rewind knob on the left hand side of the camera to see if it turns. This is a second way to check if your film is loaded properly.
If the rewind knob turns as you advance the film, that is one of the easiest ways to check if film is loaded properly. If it does not move, open the camera and reload the roll before shooting more frames.
Common Questions About Loading a Film Camera
Do you need to load film in the dark?
No — in most cases, you do not need to load film in the dark. You can load 35mm film in normal daylight. The small section of film exposed during loading will be sacrificed once you advance to your first usable frame.
Can you load film in daylight?
Yes. You can usually load film in daylight, indoor light or shaded outdoor light.
How do you open a film camera?
On many 35mm SLR cameras, opening the camera starts by lifting the rewind knob on the top left side of the body. Some cameras may also have a safety latch or lock.
How do you unload film from a 35mm camera?
Once you've finished your roll, press the rewind release button (typically located on the bottom of the camera) and manually rewind the film back into the canister before opening the camera. Never open the back of the camera until the film has been completely rewound.
What if my film won't rewind?
If you feel resistance and the film won't rewind, first make sure you've pressed the rewind release button (or the equivalent mechanism on your camera). If it still won't budge, don't force it, as the film could tear. Instead, the film will need to be hand-rolled back onto the spool. You can do this yourself in a completely dark room, or bring the camera to PhotoLounge and we'll be happy to help!
How do you take film out of a camera safely?
To take film out of a camera safely, rewind the film completely into the cartridge first. Once the rewind tension releases, open the camera back and remove the canister.
Need Help With Your Camera or Film?
If you are still unsure how to load a film camera, how to load 35mm film, or whether your roll advanced correctly, stop by PhotoLounge in Philadelphia. We are always happy to help you troubleshoot your camera, develop your film, and make sure your shots are ready for scanning or printing. No appointment is necessary.