The Kodak Duaflex III, a beloved twin-lens reflex (TLR) camera, offers a unique window into mid-20th century photography. Successfully loading film into this classic camera requires a delicate touch and understanding of its mechanics, ensuring each frame captures a piece of photographic history. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough to confidently load 620 film into your Duaflex III.
Understanding the Kodak Duaflex III Film Loading Process
The Duaflex III, while robust, has a distinct film loading procedure that differs from modern cameras. Unlike cameras that accept 35mm film cartridges, the Duaflex III uses 620 film spools. It’s crucial to understand this difference, as attempting to force 35mm film will damage the camera. The process involves transferring film from a 120 spool onto a 620 spool in a darkroom or changing bag, or purchasing pre-spooled 620 film.
Preparing Your 620 Film
Before beginning, you’ll need a roll of 620 film. Since 620 film is no longer widely manufactured, you have a few options:
- Re-spooling 120 Film: This involves transferring 120 film onto a 620 spool in complete darkness. This requires practice and a darkroom or changing bag to prevent exposing the film.
- Purchasing Pre-spooled 620 Film: Several specialty shops and online retailers offer pre-spooled 620 film, saving you the hassle of re-spooling.
- Modifying a 120 Spool (Risky): Some users carefully shave down the edges of a 120 spool to fit into the 620 camera. This method is risky and could damage the camera if not done precisely. We do not recommend this method without significant experience and caution.
Step-by-Step Film Loading Guide
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Open the Camera Back: Located on the side of the Duaflex III, you’ll find a latch. Gently slide it to the “open” position. The camera back should hinge open.
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Insert the Take-Up Spool: The take-up spool is the empty 620 spool onto which the exposed film will be wound. Place this spool into the top compartment of the camera, ensuring it seats securely.
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Insert the Film Spool (Supply Spool): Place the loaded 620 film spool into the bottom compartment. Orient the spool so that the film leader points upwards and across the film path towards the take-up spool.
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Thread the Film: Gently pull the film leader across the film path and insert it into the slot on the take-up spool. Ensure the film is securely engaged with the take-up spool.
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Close the Camera Back: Carefully close the camera back until it clicks securely shut.
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Advance the Film: Use the film advance knob (typically located on the side or top of the camera) to wind the film. You’ll need to advance the film multiple times until the number “1” appears in the red window on the camera back. This window allows you to see the frame numbers printed on the film backing paper. This process takes some time and feeling for the film as you advance.
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Ready to Shoot: Once the number “1” is visible, your Duaflex III is loaded and ready to capture your first image.
Unloading the Film
Once you’ve shot all 12 frames on the roll, continue winding the film until the backing paper is completely wound onto the take-up spool. Open the camera back in a darkened room or changing bag, remove the take-up spool (now containing the exposed film), and immediately secure the film to prevent light leaks. You can then send your film to a lab for processing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding loading film into the Kodak Duaflex III, offering deeper insight and practical advice.
1. What is 620 film, and why is it different from 35mm film?
620 film is a medium format film, wider than 35mm, and comes on a different spool. The 620 spool has a thinner flange than the 120 spool, making it fit into the Duaflex III’s film chamber. 35mm film is much smaller and comes in a light-tight cassette, making it incompatible with the Duaflex III.
2. Can I use 120 film in a Duaflex III?
Technically, yes, with modification or re-spooling. Directly inserting a 120 spool without modification is not possible and could damage your camera. Re-spooling 120 film onto a 620 spool is the safest and most recommended method.
3. Where can I buy 620 film?
While not as readily available as 35mm, you can find pre-spooled 620 film at specialty camera stores, online retailers specializing in vintage photographic equipment, and sometimes on auction sites. Search terms like “620 film for sale” should yield results.
4. How do I know if I’ve reached the first frame when loading?
You advance the film until the number “1” appears in the red window on the camera back. This window shows the frame numbers printed on the film’s backing paper. If you overshoot, simply wind back slightly.
5. What happens if I open the camera back accidentally?
If you open the camera back with unexposed film still on the supply spool, the film will be exposed to light. This will ruin the exposed frames on the roll. To minimize damage, close the camera back immediately in a dark or dimly lit area.
6. My film advance knob feels stuck. What should I do?
Do not force it. Check that the camera back is fully closed and latched. If it still feels stuck, the film may not be properly engaged with the take-up spool. Open the camera back (in a dark bag or room), and re-seat the film leader in the take-up spool slot.
7. How many shots can I get on a roll of 620 film in a Duaflex III?
Typically, you get 12 exposures per roll of 620 film. Each frame is a square format, roughly 6cm x 6cm.
8. What kind of batteries does the Duaflex III use?
The Duaflex III is a completely mechanical camera and does not require any batteries. Everything is powered by the user advancing and firing the camera.
9. What is a “darkroom” or “changing bag” and why do I need one?
A darkroom is a completely light-tight room, and a changing bag is a portable, light-tight bag. You need one for re-spooling 120 film onto 620 spools to prevent unwanted light exposure.
10. Can I develop 620 film myself?
Yes, you can develop 620 film yourself if you have the necessary equipment and knowledge of film development processes. However, it’s often easier and more convenient to send the film to a professional lab specializing in medium format film.
11. What if the red window on the camera back is broken or missing?
If the red window is broken, you’ll need to rely on counting the number of turns of the film advance knob. This is less precise, but with practice, you can get a good feel for how many turns are needed to advance to the next frame. Without a window, you’ll need to develop a precise feel for the advance, or consider replacing the camera back.
12. Where can I find more information about using and repairing my Kodak Duaflex III?
Online forums dedicated to vintage cameras, camera repair guides, and books on classic photography are excellent resources. Searching for “Kodak Duaflex III repair” or “using a Kodak Duaflex III” will often provide valuable information. Don’t hesitate to ask questions in these online communities!
By following these steps and understanding the nuances of the Kodak Duaflex III, you can confidently load film and unlock the creative potential of this iconic camera. Enjoy the journey into vintage photography!