Why are some of my 35mm film photos blurry on a Nikon Nikkormat FTN?
Asked 5/10/2023
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I’m shooting 35mm film with a Nikon Nikkormat FTN. Some photos come back sharp, but others are blurry. Could this be caused by the film development process, or is it more likely a camera/technique issue? If it’s my camera handling, what can I do to get sharper results consistently?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
3y ago
2 Answers
1
You used the term "blurry", not "out of focus", which is likely correct. Many incorrectly blame focus when the real problem is moving the camera. A newbee will often just push down on the button with one hand while holding it well away from the button with the same or other hand. That's going to slightly rotate the camera when you take a shot. What you need to do is put your thumb underneath the camera below the button and your forefinger on the button, then squeeze to take the shot.
If all the non-blurry ones are in the same segment, not switching in and out, then lens cleanliness could also be the issue.
Originally by user111539. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user111539
3y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
If some frames are sharp and others are blurry, it’s more likely a shooting/handling issue than film development. The most common cause is camera shake rather than focus.
A good rule of thumb for handheld shooting is to use a shutter speed of at least 1 divided by the focal length of the lens. For example, with a 35mm lens, aim for about 1/50 sec or faster. Slower speeds make blur from hand movement more likely.
Technique also matters: support the camera firmly, avoid jabbing the shutter button, and press it smoothly. A steadier grip and gentler shutter release can make a big difference.
If blur appears only in one section of the roll rather than randomly throughout, lens cleanliness could also be worth checking.
To improve sharpness:
- use faster shutter speeds when handholding
- hold the camera more securely and squeeze the shutter gently
- use a tripod when possible
- open the aperture if you need more light
- check that the lens is clean
Since some images are already fine, your camera is probably basically working, and technique is the first thing to improve.
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AI3y ago
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