Camera/Photography

[scottyguitar]

Most film cameras that are over 20 years old will need servicing before use. Canon A1s and AE1s tend to need lubrication as well. They develop a squeak when the shutter is tripped (it is actually in the mechanism that raises the mirror). If not lubed the mechanism will eventually lock up. This applies to most Canon SLRs made between 1970 and 1980.

ALL film cameras over 20 years old need the light seals around the film door replaced. The Japanese manufacturers used high-density foam in their cameras that tends to liquefy over time. The stuff is messy and gets smeared all over the camera through handling. It causes big problems if it gets into the film advance or shutter mechanisms.

Another problem is batteries. Many cameras with CDS light meters used mercury batteries. If left in the camera for long periods they leak and cause corrosion inside the camera. The first thing I look at in a camera is the battery compartment. Also, 1.3 volt Mercury cells are no longer made- you have to use either zinc/air cells or buy an adapter/voltage dropper that uses a modern 1.5 volt cell.

Additionally, it is very difficult to find anyone nowadays who will work on consumer-grade camera equipment. Most of the high-end repair people won't touch them. I wound up teaching myself how to work on mechanical cameras in order to keep my stuff in working order. There are some good books on camera repair but most are out of print. I recommend Camera Maintenance and Repair by Thomas Tomosy. It's a 2-volume soft back set that covers many different cameras and addresses their repair and especially their quirks.

Other than that, I applaud you for wanting to shoot film. I have a medium-format twin lens reflex that shoots higher resolution photos than even the most expensive pro digital camera.

My advice to those wanting to get into film photography is to start with the aforementioned Pentax K1000. I have one that I bought new in 1983 and, with the exception of replaced foam, it's still kicking today. Plus, it uses a battery for the meter that is still made today. They are literally bulletproof and were made to last. Stay away from anything electronic/automatic. That includes the Canon AE1. An A1 is good but an F1 is the best. I got an F1 in a kit with lenses and a flash for 15 bucks at Goodwill a couple of years ago. The F1 was Canon's top of the line pro camera and it's a heavy beast but it takes amazing photos.

Scott

[ktone]

What is a good forum for 35mm film cameras.?

A quick search revealed The Darkroom, Rangefinderforum.com and Film and Darkroom User Forum

[C Moore]

Thanks for the above info on books, maintenance and cameras.
The links to the forums is great.
Thanks Again