The Kodak Brownie Turret camera, a mid-century marvel, requires 620 format film, though finding original 620 film can be challenging. Re-spooling 120 film onto a 620 spool is the most common and effective solution for bringing this vintage camera back to life.
Understanding the Kodak Brownie Turret and Film Compatibility
The Kodak Brownie Turret camera, released in the 1950s, stands out for its three-lens turret offering wide-angle, normal, and telephoto perspectives. This made it relatively versatile for its time, appealing to amateur photographers who wanted a simple point-and-shoot experience with a bit more creative control. However, its reliance on 620 film presents a hurdle for modern photographers.
The 620 Film Format: A Brief History
620 film is essentially a version of 120 film wound onto a smaller, all-plastic spool. Kodak introduced it as a cost-saving measure, requiring consumers to return the empty 620 spools to be refilled. While the film width itself is identical to 120, the spool’s dimensions differ significantly, making direct use of 120 film in a 620 camera impossible without modification.
Why Re-spooling is Necessary
Because 620 film is no longer manufactured, the only practical option for shooting with a Kodak Brownie Turret is to re-spool 120 film onto a 620 spool. This involves transferring the 120 film from its original spool onto an empty 620 spool in complete darkness or a changing bag. While seemingly daunting, the process is relatively straightforward with practice.
Re-spooling 120 Film for Your Brownie Turret
Re-spooling can be done using a darkroom bag or complete darkness. You’ll need a roll of 120 film, an empty 620 spool, and some patience. There are also commercial re-spooling tools available to simplify the process.
Step-by-Step Re-spooling Guide
- Prepare your workspace: Ensure you have a completely dark environment or a light-tight changing bag.
- Gather your materials: Have your 120 film roll, empty 620 spool, and scissors ready.
- Open the 120 film: Carefully open the 120 film packaging in complete darkness.
- Attach the film to the 620 spool: Carefully thread the film leader onto the empty 620 spool and secure it.
- Wind the film: Slowly and evenly wind the 120 film onto the 620 spool, ensuring a tight and even wind.
- Secure the end: Once all the film is transferred, secure the end of the film to the 620 spool.
- Store the re-spooled film: Place the re-spooled film in a light-tight container until you’re ready to load it into your Brownie Turret.
Tips for Successful Re-spooling
- Practice in daylight with old film: Before committing to a fresh roll, practice with a roll of exposed or outdated 120 film.
- Maintain even tension: Uneven tension can lead to film jams or light leaks.
- Use a dedicated re-spooling tool: Tools designed for re-spooling can significantly simplify and speed up the process.
- Work in a clean environment: Dust and debris can scratch the film.
Choosing the Right 120 Film for Your Brownie Turret
While any 120 film can technically be re-spooled, some films are better suited for the Brownie Turret than others. Factors to consider include film speed (ISO), tonal range, and color versus black and white.
Black and White Film Recommendations
Black and white films are often a popular choice for vintage cameras, offering a classic aesthetic. Recommended options include:
- Ilford HP5 Plus: A versatile and forgiving film with a wide tonal range and excellent push-processing capabilities.
- Kodak Tri-X 400: A classic high-speed film known for its distinctive grain and sharpness.
- Kentmere Pan 400: A more budget-friendly option that still delivers excellent results.
Color Film Recommendations
Color film can add a vibrant touch to your Brownie Turret photographs. Consider these options:
- Kodak Portra 400: A professional-grade film known for its natural skin tones and fine grain.
- Kodak Ektar 100: A high-saturation film ideal for landscapes and vibrant colors.
- Fujifilm Pro 400H (if available): Though discontinued, if you can find it, this film offers beautiful pastel colors and fine grain.
Understanding Film Speed (ISO)
The film speed (ISO) determines the film’s sensitivity to light. The Brownie Turret, with its fixed aperture settings, works best with films around ISO 100-400. Higher ISO films may be too sensitive for bright daylight conditions, leading to overexposure.
FAQs About Using Film with the Kodak Brownie Turret
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process and address common concerns:
FAQ 1: Can I use 35mm film in my Kodak Brownie Turret?
No. The Kodak Brownie Turret uses 620 film, which is a medium format film, significantly larger than 35mm. Adapting it to use 35mm would require extensive and impractical modifications.
FAQ 2: Where can I find empty 620 spools?
Empty 620 spools can be found on online auction sites like eBay or through vintage camera shops and suppliers. Sometimes, developing labs will return your 620 spools. Save them if they do!
FAQ 3: Is re-spooling difficult?
Re-spooling requires practice and patience, but it’s not inherently difficult. Starting with an expendable roll of 120 film to practice in daylight will increase your comfort level.
FAQ 4: What happens if I can’t re-spool perfectly in the dark?
Light leaks are possible if the film isn’t wound tightly or if there’s any light exposure during the re-spooling process. This can result in streaks or fogging on your images.
FAQ 5: Can I modify a 120 spool to fit in the Brownie Turret?
Modifying a 120 spool is an alternative but requires careful sanding or trimming of the spool’s edges to reduce its diameter. It’s generally riskier than re-spooling, as it can damage the film transport mechanism in the camera if not done precisely.
FAQ 6: What happens if the film gets stuck while winding it in the camera?
Stop winding immediately. Forcibly winding a stuck film can damage the camera’s internal gears. Gently try to unwind the film a little and then try winding again. If it continues to stick, take the camera to a repair shop.
FAQ 7: Are there any modern cameras that use 620 film?
No, 620 film is obsolete, and no modern cameras are designed to use it.
FAQ 8: Does the Brownie Turret have any light meter?
No, the Brownie Turret does not have a built-in light meter. You’ll need to use a handheld light meter or a light meter app on your smartphone to determine proper exposure settings. Use the sunny 16 rule as a guide.
FAQ 9: What are the aperture settings on the Brownie Turret?
The Brownie Turret typically has fixed aperture settings, often around f/11 or f/16. This further emphasizes the need to choose an appropriate film speed for the lighting conditions.
FAQ 10: Can I use expired 120 film for re-spooling?
Yes, you can use expired film, but expect potential color shifts or increased grain, especially if the film was not stored properly. Expired black and white film often holds up better than color film.
FAQ 11: How do I develop the re-spooled film?
Develop the re-spooled film as you would any 120 film. Inform your developing lab that it’s re-spooled film to avoid any confusion.
FAQ 12: What should I do with the empty 620 spool after development?
Keep the empty 620 spool! It’s essential for re-spooling your next roll of 120 film. Developing labs sometimes forget to return the spools, so be sure to ask for it back.
By understanding the nuances of the 620 film format and mastering the art of re-spooling, you can unlock the creative potential of your Kodak Brownie Turret camera and capture timeless images with a unique vintage charm.