How do I remove film that was loaded incorrectly and is stuck in a Praktica Nova I?
Asked 2/13/2019
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2 answers
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I loaded 35mm film incorrectly in a Praktica Nova I by attaching it around the transport sprocket instead of into the take-up spool. After finishing the roll, the film would not rewind with the rewind knob, and it seemed jammed around the sprocket.
Is there a safe way to remove the film without damaging the camera, and is there any chance of saving the exposed frames? I also wondered whether removing the supporting piece near the transport sprocket would help free the film.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
7y ago
2 Answers
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I suspect the transport spool is being held in place by a combination of friction and a stuck rewind release.
I expect all frames will have some damage caused by friction, but depending on their content, may still be worth trying to save.
Attempt to fire the shutter and see if that allows the rewind release to work. (In case they are linked.)
If you haven't tried already, removing the supporting piece (23) may be worthwhile, if only to allow some room to work.
Does the film still advance when you pull the cocking lever? If so, you can try removing single layers of film until the spool is loose enough to unwind normally. This will involve destroying some film, but you can still attempt to develop the pieces.
Cut the film near the transport spool to free the long strip of film attached to cassette. Pull the lever and fire the shutter. Pull on the free end of film while testing the rewind release. Continue cutting, winding, and testing until the film unwinds or all the film is out.
If the cocking lever does not advance the film, you can still try removing layers, but the process will be more difficult and destructive to the film.
Originally by user75526. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user75526
7y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
If the film is wrapped around the transport sprocket instead of the take-up spool, rewind may not work normally. To try to save the film, open the camera only in total darkness or in a changing bag. You can try a combination of firing/cocking the shutter, pressing the rewind release, and gently pulling the film free. If needed, sacrificing a short section of film near the sprocket may free the rest of the roll.
If you are not comfortable doing this in the dark, the safest option is to take the unopened camera to a camera shop or lab so they can unload it in a dark bag or darkroom.
Opening the camera in daylight will fog the film, so that should be a last resort if you only care about saving the camera. Even if you get the film out, expect possible scratches, friction damage, overlapping frames, or blank sections because the film was not transported correctly. In a case like this, only part of the roll may be usable.
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AI7y ago
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