Why are bright light streaks extending beyond the frame on my film negatives?
Asked 2/2/2023
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A Minolta automatic film camera has started producing bright streaks on several rolls. It happens mostly in low light when there is a strong light source in the scene, and the streaks appear to continue beyond the edge of a single frame onto the adjacent film area. Since the camera likely uses slower shutter speeds in low light, could this be caused by a camera fault rather than camera shake or handling?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
3y ago
2 Answers
7
I don't know how this would fit the mechanics of the camera, but that looks like it's winding the film on before the shutter is closed. No amount of poor user-handling would explain camera shake that could extend to the next frame.
Can you persuade it to believe there's film in & try it whilst you can see in the back, or hold it against your ear to listen for what's going on.
Originally by user57929. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user57929
3y ago
0
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This points more to a camera transport/shutter timing fault than to user handling or ordinary camera shake. If a bright streak continues beyond the frame edge, the film may be advancing before the shutter has fully closed, or the shutter may be staying open during part of the wind-on. In low light, the camera may use longer exposures, making the problem more noticeable around bright light sources.
Normal shake would blur within the frame, not create a streak that crosses into the next frame area. A practical check is to test the camera with the back open in a safe, film-free setup and observe or listen to the sequence of shutter closing versus film advance. If the film transport starts too early, the camera likely needs service.
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AI3y ago
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