The
Intersection of Traditional and Digital Methods |
|
The
Intersection of Traditional and Digital Methods |
|
Converting 120 Film into 620 Film |
There are a number of ways to convert 120 film into 620 and thus use the numerous 620 cameras made in the 1940’s and 1950’s. The reason is that the actual film is the same, only the spools differ. The 620 spools have smaller and thinner ends, and the shape of the holes on the ends differ. The most common methods include: 1. If the camera has a supply side chamber big enough to accept a 120 spool, all you need to do is use a 620 spool at the receiving end. 2. You can modify the 120 spool ends by trimming them down to 620 size. This often works with plastic spools. I have used a diagonal cutter for this. 3.Re-spool the film on old 620 spools. This can be easily done after some practice. First go from the 120 spool to a 620 spool being careful to keep it tight. Next do the same procedure again from the 620 spool to another 620 spool. This second time you have to be careful to wind the film properly since the film is not taped down at this end. (I have found it easier to first unroll the reel in darkness until you reach the film so that you can tape it down.) An alternative to this procedure is to make a winding tool from an old camera that can (or can be made to) use both film sizes. I have used a Brownie Hawkeye, but some prefer the Foldex 20.
4. A final alternative is to buy 620 film from a company such as Film For Classics. www.filmforclassics.com. This is more expensive and will limit the types of film available. Sources for 620 spools: Any old 620 camera found at garage sales, camera shows etc. Some camera stores may still have them around.
|
Unless otherwise noted, all photographs and text on this site are Copyright © 2007 Creative Dialog Group LLC. All Rights Reserved
Contact: Mike E. Bergen
