Film Photography Fundamentals: Pre-Shutter or Post-Shutter Frame Advance

Film photography, a beloved and increasingly nostalgic practice, presents unique challenges and techniques that digital photography often overlooks. One such technique revolves around when to advance the film to the next framebefore or after taking a picture. This article aims to clarify the practice and provide a deeper understanding of the consequences of either choice.

Historical Context of Film Photography

In traditional film cameras, the process of taking a photograph involves a series of mechanical actions. Once the shutter button is pressed, the camera's mechanism records the image on a film frame. Following this, the film must be advanced to the next frame, using either a manual or automatic mechanism, to prepare for the next shot. The specifics of when to perform this action can vary based on the type of camera and the photographer's technique.

Common Practice: Winding After Exposure

Many film photographers, including myself, adopt a common practice: advancing the film to the next frame after taking a photograph, but before taking the next. This practice is supported by the need to avoid leaving the shutter under tension for extended periods, which could strain the shutter spring and affect the consistency of the shutter speed.

Shutter Tension and Spring Consistency

Leaving the shutter cocked for long periods can lead to several issues. The primary concern is the potential for accidental triggering of the shutter if the camera is not handled carefully. Over time, this can cause the shutter spring to weaken, leading to inconsistent shutter speeds. Additionally, constantly cocking the shutter without taking a picture can also wear out the spring, necessitating replacement or repair.

Shutter Release Lock

For photographers who utilize cameras with a shutter release lock on the shutter button, this practice is particularly important. A shutter release lock disables the shutter until the photographer is ready to take a picture, providing an additional layer of security. In these cases, it is advisable to advance the film only after intending to take a shot, as leaving the shutter locked reduces the risk of accidental exposure.

Professional Practices and Considerations

While most film photographers follow this general rule, professional settings and specific shooting scenarios may dictate different approaches. For instance, in fashion or model shoots where a series of rapid exposures are required, pre-winding the film is often necessary to keep up with the pace of the session. The most notable example of this practice is the cinematographic film ldquo;Blowuprdquo; (1966), directed by Michelangelo Antonioni, which showcases a variety of professional photography techniques, including the use of film cameras.

Wildlife Photography and Rapid Fire Technique

One exception to the general rule pertains to wildlife photography. In situations where the subject is likely to move or disappear quickly, having a new frame already prepared can be advantageous. The time taken to manually advance the film to a new frame could inadvertently miss the opportune moment to capture the scene. However, this practice is less common for most film photographers, who prioritize the well-being of the camera and the consistency of their shots.

Spring-Operated vs. Electrically Operated Cameras

The mechanics of film cameras have evolved over the years. Spring-operated focal plane shutters, which were common in traditional cameras, tend to operate better when the film is kept unwound during storage to minimize the strain on the shutter springs. During a photo shoot, it was standard practice to advance the film immediately after taking a shot to be prepared for the next one. However, with the advent of electrically operated cameras, these considerations became less relevant, as the film could be wound on at all times without affecting the shutter's lifespan.

Shutter Diaphragm Shutter

For diaphragm shutters, the state of the film has no bearing on the life of the shutter. In such cases, it is generally prudent to keep the film wound on to be ready for the next shot. This approach ensures that the photographer is always prepared, minimizing the risk of missing a shot due to film preparation delays.

Conclusion

The choice between pre-shutter or post-shutter frame advance in film photography is a personal one, influenced by the photographer's technique, the specific requirements of the photo shoot, and the model of the camera being used. Understanding the mechanics and potential consequences of each approach can help photographers make informed decisions and improve their overall shooting experience.

If you have any specific questions or need further clarification on film photography techniques, feel free to reach out. Your questions and insights are valuable assets in our shared passion for this timeless art form.