Minimizing Grit in a
Minox
An oft asked question about self loading relates to scratches on
the film. I have not established a cause for said scratches, indeed
there are probably a variety of causes. Although many come and go
along the length of the film, the scratches I most frequently see run
almost the entire length of the film. My current theory is that most
scratches are caused by debris OUTSIDE the
cassette which becomes lodged in the opening of the takeup side.
Support for this theory comes from scratches on "factory loaded"
film, coupled with the observation of no increase in scratching with
my self loaded film. Although careless loading of cassettes will
introduce debris into the supply side of the cassette, I suspect that
a majority of scratches are NOT the result of
the film slitting and loading process. I am now exceedingly careful
when loading the camera, and avoid loading in the field whenever
possible. I feel strongly that Joel's suggestion below has, for me,
reduced the problem significantly.
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Minimizing Dust by
Joel Moskowitz
Joel suggests a technique he
adapted to the Minox from a cinematography class. "Using an
ear syringe, I hold the camera upside down (gate open) and
blow out the film compartment thoroughly. Upside down
because the syringe only has to dislodge the dust and
gravity removes it from the camera. Any stronger gust of air
might drive the dust further in. After blowing out the
camera, I immediately (still with the camera upside down)
insert the new cassette, keeping it clear of any dust from
the camera."
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I surely do not wish to minimize the necessity of rigor in the
darkroom, and run a small negative ion generator and "drugstore" air
purifier in the darkroom for a couple of hours before slitting and
loading. I also pull the film through an anti-static film brush or a
"Dust Magnet" antistatic dust cloth while rolling it on the dowel for
insertion into the supply chamber. I did, for years, use phonograph
record "velour" cleaning pads, so there are a variety of methods for
trapping the potentially damaging grit.
I will be happy top post here (with proper credit) any other
suggestions which might help fellow Minox aficionados to minimize the
impact of debris on their precious images. Just send a note.
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