When purchasing a used film camera, it’s important to know what to look for to ensure you’re making a wise investment. While shooting a roll of film through the camera is the best way to thoroughly test it, it may not always be feasible when making a quick purchasing decision. In such cases, there are other methods to check for potential issues.
At Enhanced View Services, we understand the importance of a reliable film camera, and that’s why we have compiled a blog post outlining 11 ways to check a film camera for problems. We provide detailed information on various aspects to inspect, including the camera body, lens, shutter, viewfinder, film winding mechanism, and more. By following these guidelines, you can make a more informed decision when purchasing a used film camera.
For further assistance or to access our information hub, please visit our website. We are dedicated to helping photography enthusiasts make the right choices when it comes to their equipment.
1. Check the Shutter Mechanism
Open the back of the camera and examine the shutter blades, which are fine overlapping metal blades. Ensure there are no bulges, bends, or scratch marks on the blades. They should overlap and touch each other smoothly.
2. Inspect the Camera Body for Visible Defects
Thoroughly examine both the interior and exterior of the camera body for any defects. Look for signs of rust formation or bubbling, indicating excessive moisture exposure that may have affected the camera’s internal components. Additionally, check for any damp smell, which could indicate improper storage conditions such as the attic or basement. If detected, it’s advisable to consider other available cameras.
3. Examine the Light Traps
Direct your attention to the condition of the light traps inside the camera. These felt-like materials are crucial for sealing the film and preventing light leaks. The location of the light traps may vary depending on the camera model.
If the camera is quite old, the light traps may have deteriorated, appearing as small black crumbs. This indicates that the material is disintegrating. Replacing these light traps can be expensive, so factor this into your decision-making process.
4. Check the Shutter
Test the shutter by firing it off to ensure smooth and proper functioning. Wind the camera and ensure there are no sticking or jamming issues. Verify that the shutter blades are fully uncovering the picture area.
5. Inspect the Camera’s Exterior
After examining the interior, thoroughly inspect the exterior for signs of damage such as cracks, dents, or any indications of bumps or drops. Pay particular attention to any significant dents that may suggest the camera has been dropped.
6. Listen to the Shutter Speeds
While it’s not possible to accurately measure shutter speeds, you can gauge their relative timing by listening. For instance, if the camera is set to a one-second shutter speed, fire the shutter and estimate the timing based on the sound it produces.
If the camera has a mechanical shutter, listen for a consistent and even clockwork sound. The sound should not be accelerated, slowed down, or give the impression of imminent jamming.
7. Test the Shutter Using Bulb Mode
Activate the B or Bulb mode on the camera, which keeps the shutter open as long as the button is held down. This mode allows you to check for any issues with the shutter. Observe if the shutter releases smoothly without any delays. If the mechanism is worn, you may notice timing issues and noticeable delays.
8. Check the Viewfinder
Look through the viewfinder and carefully inspect it for any marks, scratches, or other damages. Pay attention to the focusing screen and ensure it is free from scratches or other defects.
9. Inspect the Light Meter
If the film camera has a built-in light meter, test it by pointing the camera at different surfaces and observing if the light meter readings change according to the brightness of the surroundings.
Note that assessing the accuracy of the light meter without an external meter can be challenging. When testing indoors with artificial or natural light from a window, the recommended exposure settings are around 400 ISO, 1/60th of a second, at f/2.8.
10. Inspect the Battery Compartment
If the film camera requires a battery, carefully examine the battery compartment for any signs of rust or corrosion, as well as any furry residue caused by leaking batteries. The compartment should appear clean and free from any damage.
11. Check the Camera Lens
When examining the camera lens, follow these steps:
Inspect the aperture mechanism
Most film camera lenses feature a mechanical aperture system that can be operated using a ring or lever. Check the mechanism for any potential damage or issues.
Look for marks or signs of grease
Check the aperture blades for any marks or spots that resemble grease. Such marks could indicate that the lubricant has leaked onto the blades. If the lubricant has leaked, the aperture may not open and close smoothly.
Check for damage to the glass
Inspect both the front and back lenses of the camera and carefully examine the glass for any physical damage, such as chips, cracks, or scratches. Additionally, be on the lookout for the presence of fungus, particularly in lenses that have been stored in high-moisture environments. The lenses should be in good condition without any noticeable damage.
Check the focus and zoom mechanisms
Test the functionality of the focus and zoom features on the camera. Ensure that the focus and zoom controls are easy to use and operate smoothly without any stiffness or resistance. Pay attention to any squeaking or crunching sounds, as these may indicate the presence of dust or debris within the mechanisms.
Choose a Reputable Used Camera Equipment Establishment Like Enhanced View Services
By following the steps mentioned above, you can ensure that the used film camera you are purchasing is in good working condition. If you’re in need of used camera gear, feel free to reach out to Enhanced View Services for further assistance.
Are you in search of a reputable shop offering film cameras in Miami, Florida? Look no further than Enhanced View Services. We specialize in providing both new and used professional audio and video gear.
If you’d like to learn more about our products, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can reach us at 305.971.2916 or send an email to [email protected]. Choose Enhanced View Services for all your film camera needs. Don’t delay, get in touch with us today!