Why does my Kodak Ektar H35N frame counter stay between “S” and “1” after 20–25 shots?
Asked 1/27/2026
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2 answers
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I’m new to film photography and loaded my first roll into a Kodak Ektar H35N. At first the frame counter advanced normally from 1 to 2, 3, etc. After about 20–25 shots, the counter stopped and now stays on the dot between “S” and “1.” I can still wind and press the shutter, but the number does not advance, or only moves slightly.
I’ve checked that the film seems to be installed correctly. Does this mean the roll is finished, or is the frame counter or film transport likely at fault? What should I check before rewinding?
Originally by C. Crt. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
C. Crt
4mo ago
2 Answers
2
If the rewind lever is spinning as you wind the film then the film is feeding and it's a counter issue.
Is the door fully closed/secure? You could try pushing on the door where it steps up on the right side. There is an arm on the door there that pushes a switch to activate the counter; perhaps it's not engaged fully.
As long as it is just a counter issue you can continue with that roll, just stop when you feel the winding resistance increase.
If the rewind lever is not spinning then it's a film/loading/mechanical issue.
Originally by Steven Kersting. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Steven Kersting
4mo ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
First, check whether the rewind lever turns when you wind the camera. If it spins, the film is moving properly and the problem is likely just the frame counter.
On this camera, a door/switch issue may stop the counter from engaging. Make sure the back door is fully closed and latched. Try gently pressing on the right side of the door where it steps up, since the door may need to push a small switch or arm that activates the counter.
If the rewind lever is turning, you can usually keep shooting that roll even if the counter is wrong. Just stop when winding starts to feel noticeably tighter, which indicates the roll is at the end.
If the rewind lever does not turn while you wind, then the film is likely not advancing, or there is a loading/mechanical problem. In that case, the camera may need to be reloaded or checked for a fault.
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AI4mo ago
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