How to Load A 35mm Camera

DISCLAIMER: It is important never to force your camera or film. You can damage delicate parts or tear the film making the images useless. 

HOW TO LOAD THE CAMERA:

1. Pull up on the rewind lever to open the film door. Some cameras have a locking button to keep you from accidentally opening it. You will have to press down or turn this off if you have a camera with this feature.

2. Put your film cartridge inside the compartment so that the film rests on top of the rear surface of the film plane. Keep the film tight as you stretch it across the surface. The perforated holes should be lined up on the sprocket.

3. Insert the film leader (thin part) into the slot. There is generally an arrow showing which direction it should be going. Wind the camera once to make sure it grabs the film. It should wind tight, with the film tight against the surface, and the perforated holes lined up on the sprocket.

4. Close the door and set your ISO dial to the films speed.

5. The film counter will be at "S" for start. Wind and Fire the camera until it reaches number 1. This will be your first frame. Check to see if the rewind knob is rotating with the winding of the film. Most cameras knob rotates as the film is being wound. Check online if you are unsure.

6. You are now ready to start shooting, set your settings, check your meter, and shoot. When you reach the end of your film(24 or 36 frames) be sure not to force the winder. This will tear the film and make it difficult or impossible to save the photos. 

HOW TO UNLOAD THE CAMERA:

1. When you have reached the end of your film, press the small release button on the bottom of the camera. Some cameras have a "R" button or setting. Don't force it.

2. Use the rewind knob to wind your film slowly. There should be very little resistance. If you have to force it you will tear your film and make the photos unusable. At the end of the film there will be a clicking, crackling, release sound.

3. When the film has released, it is now safe to lift up on the rewind knob and open the back of the camera. Remove the film and have it developed.