Before You Begin: Preparing Your Camera and Film

Loading film for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but once you understand how it works, it becomes a simple and satisfying part of shooting. The key is to go slowly, check everything twice, and stay calm. Every photographer had a first roll once.

Choose the Right Film for Your Camera

Most beginner cameras use 35mm film, which comes in small metal canisters. Choose a film that suits your lighting situation. ISO 200 or 400 is great for sunny days or general use, while ISO 800 is better for darker settings.

Make sure your camera  is designed for 35mm film. If you are not sure, check the markings near the film door or inside the film chamber. Always handle film gently, holding only the edges so you do not leave fingerprints on the surface.

Check Batteries and Settings

If your camera has a built-in light meter or electronic shutter, make sure it has a working battery. Fire the shutter a few times to confirm it sounds consistent and that the advance lever works smoothly. A weak or dead battery can lead to incorrect exposure or even stop the shutter from firing.

Find a Clean, Shaded Place to Load

Film is sensitive to light, so it is best to load your camera in a shaded area or indoors. Avoid loading directly under bright sunlight, especially outdoors. This simple step helps prevent light leaks and protects the film from overexposure before you even begin shooting.

How to Load 35mm Film Step by Step

Step 1: Open the Film Door

Locate the latch or knob that opens the back of your camera. Most cameras open by gently lifting the rewind knob on the top left side. Once it clicks open, lift the back door slowly and make sure the inside is clean and free of dust.

Step 2: Insert the Film Roll

Place the film canister into the chamber on the left. The flat end with the spool should fit securely into place. Push the rewind knob back down so it locks the canister into position.

Step 3: Pull the Film Leader to the Take-Up Spool

Gently pull the narrow tongue of film across to the right side of the camera. Insert the tip into one of the small slots or clips on the take-up spool. The perforated edges of the film should line up with the small sprockets inside the camera. This ensures the film will move properly as you shoot.

Keep the film flat and slightly taut, but do not pull it too hard. If the film is loose or twisted, it can cause overlapping frames or uneven spacing later.

Step 4: Wind and Test the Advance

Turn the advance lever and press the shutter once or twice while keeping the back open. Watch to see if the film moves smoothly across the sprockets. If it slips or fails to catch, reinsert the leader until it stays in place.

Step 5: Close the Back and Advance to Frame One

Close the camera back and make sure it clicks shut. Wind and shoot until the frame counter shows number one. As you advance, look at the rewind knob on top. It should turn slightly each time you wind. This movement tells you the film is advancing correctly.

Shooting Your First Roll of Film

Set Your ISO and Exposure

Look for the ISO setting on your camera, often marked ASA on older models. Match it to the number printed on your film box. If you are using ISO 400 film, set your camera to 400. This ensures the light meter reads exposure correctly.

Follow your camera’s meter guide for proper aperture and shutter speed. In bright daylight, settings like f/8 and 1/250 second often work well for most films.

Advance the Film After Each Shot

After you take a picture, always advance the film before shooting again. This moves a new, unexposed section of film into position. You will feel slight resistance when winding, which means the film is engaged correctly. If you feel no tension at all, stop and check that it has not come loose.

Watch Your Frame Counter

Most 35mm film rolls contain either 24 or 36 exposures. Keep an eye on your frame counter so you know how many shots are left. If you reach the end and the lever will not move, do not force it. That means the roll is finished and ready to rewind.

How to Rewind 35mm Film

When to Rewind

You should rewind the film as soon as you finish shooting the roll. Never open the back of the camera until it has been fully rewound into the canister, or you will expose your photos to light.

How to Rewind Without Breaking the Film

Press the rewind release button on the bottom of the camera. This unlocks the take-up mechanism so the film can move backward freely. Turn the rewind knob slowly in the direction of the arrow. You will feel resistance at first, then a light drop when the film leader detaches from the spool. Once it spins freely, the film is fully rewound.

Removing the Roll Safely

Open the film door gently and lift out the canister. Store it in its plastic case or a dark pouch until you are ready to take it for development. Keep it out of heat and sunlight. Label your roll with details like the film type or date if you plan to shoot often.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced photographers make small mistakes, but being aware of them helps you prevent most problems with your first roll.

Film Did Not Advance

If the rewind knob never moved while shooting, the film was not loaded correctly. The film probably stayed in the canister the entire time. Always watch the rewind knob for movement after the first few frames.

Opened the Back Too Early

If you open the camera before rewinding, close it right away. You will lose only the exposed section of film that was in direct light, but the rest may still be fine. Tell your lab what happened so they can develop it carefully.

Overlapping Frames

When images overlap, it usually means the film slipped on the spool during loading. Make sure the sprockets grab the film evenly and that it stays flat before closing the back.

Light Leaks

Old light seals around the door can deteriorate and let light streaks appear on your film. Replacing them is inexpensive and easy to do. If you see sticky or crumbly foam, consider replacing the seals before your next roll.

FAQs About Loading and Shooting Film

What should I do if the film will not advance?
Stop shooting immediately and reload the film carefully. Forcing the lever can tear the film.

Can I load film outside?
Yes, but find some shade or cover to avoid exposing the film to direct sunlight.

What if the film tears during rewind?
If that happens, open the camera in complete darkness or inside a dark bag and remove the roll by hand.

Why did my photos come out blank?
Blank negatives usually mean the film was never engaged with the take-up spool or the shutter did not open during shooting.

How can I prevent light leaks?
Keep the back closed until the roll is rewound and replace old light seals if they look worn or sticky.

Should I label my rolls after shooting?
Yes. Write down the date and film type so you can track what you shot and how each roll performed.

Conclusion: Shooting Film Is Easier Than You Think

Loading and shooting film may seem old-fashioned, but it teaches patience, attention, and care in every frame. Once you know the basic steps, it becomes second nature.

Remember to check your film type, load it carefully, watch your frame counter, and rewind it gently when finished. If something goes wrong, do not worry. Every photographer makes small mistakes at the beginning.

The joy of film photography comes from slowing down and learning as you go. Each roll is a lesson, and with practice, you will soon load your camera with confidence and excitement every time.