Question on Film Holders

[kjsphoto]

I just picked up some used film holders 4x5 and 5x7. How do you know if the tape is bad? I really hat eto waste 60 sheets of film to test each one.

The reaon I ask is that the flaps are very flimsy like they are way broken in and if I hold it up to a light I can see small holes in the tape.

I have bought used before but the flaps were pretty stiff.

Thanks,

Kev

[Nick Zentena]

Use paper for testing. Cheaper then film.

[kjsphoto]

And just flood them with like with the paper in them? Where would you point the light?

Also is that normal? Flimsy and the little pin holes? I held them up to a light to see them.

Thanks,

Kev

[Nick Zentena]

I'd take them outside and leave them in full sun. After about 30 minutes turn them over. If the paper doesn't get fogged film should be fine.

I don't have any new holders so I don't know how stiff they might be. My holders are all different. Some are stiffer some are not. They are all light tight.

[Timothy]

Hey Kev,
Why take chances ? Just change the tape, it is real easy to do. The trick is to use the right stuff - Scotch 235 photographic, made by 3m. It is stupidly overpriced of course, but still one roll will last a VERY long time. You can get it from Myrick photo in Monterey but I am sure there are other places you can get it to.

Tim R

[smieglitz]

The tape does not form the light seal, it only holds the baffle in place. If the tape is loose and does not fulfil this function, replace it. If the holder is too worn it will leak light whether you have new tape on it or not. Especially with older wooden holders there may also be some warpage which causes a light leak and tape can't help that.

Joe

[David A. Goldfarb]

The tape doesn't necessarily have to be absolutely light tight. Pinhole leaks in the tape are normal. The light trap is formed when the flap is closed and held in place either by the darkslide or by the spring pressure from the camera back when the darkslide is removed.

[gma]

I agree with the Scotch 3M black photo tape advice. It costs about $ 8 a roll, but it is lot cheaper than wasting film and losing an important photo. You can replace quickly and easily when you think it might be getting brittle. You will find many other uses for the tape.

[John Kasaian]

I agree, if it bothers you just put on new tape hinges. FWIW book binder's tape is supposed to be the best for the purpose. I use gaffer's tape because thats what I have.

Cheers!