self-developing part three: loading the reels

Okay, self-developers, now it's time for the tricky part!  (don't worry, we'll get to the fun part next!)

If you've been following along, we've already gotten our supplies and mixed our chemicals.  Now it's time to practice, practice, practice loading the film onto your reels.  The practice part is essential because you'll be doing this inside the changing bag where you won't be able to see what you're doing (and once your hands are in there, you can't really take a break). 

Here's what you'll need if you're using 35mm film:

1.The developing tank

2. A bottle opener (the rounded one)

3. A pair of scissors

4. The changing bag

5. Your film

If you are using 120 film, you'll only need the tank, the changing bag and the film.

You are going to have to sacrifice a roll of film to practice with.  And I recommend that you do the process at least three times successfully outside the bag, then once with your eyes closed, and a bunch of times in the bag before you actually get started with your 'real' film.  It might be monotonous but, trust me, it's worth the practice.  Once you get the feel for it, it is very easy but it takes many times before you get in your groove. 

I've been struggling with how on earth to properly show you how this process goes and was stressing over the fact that I do not own a video camera, but then I remembered the wonderfulness of YouTube and found a really great video that shows the process with both 35mm and 120mm film.

This guy does a great job of showing you all the steps.  The only thing that I do differently is when I use 120 film I actually take the film off the paper first before spooling.  Then I hold it on my left pinky whilst cranking with my right hand.  Also, I don't bother rounding the corners when I cut off the lead of 35mm film either.

After lots of practicing, load the bag with all of the essentials listed above and get to work!  You'll probably want to wait to do this with your real film until you're just ready to develop it.

Once you've got your film loaded up, we're ready to begin the developing process... I'll be back soon with the final steps. Exciting!

Updated: if you're ready, here is the final step: developing the film!

-cmv

Comments

[melissa]

very cool.
hooray for youtube! (who ever thought i'd be typing *that* sentence!?!)

[josiekitten]

Look forward to seeing some of your own photos once you've developed them.

[Lindsey]

very exciting! I am so eager to see the next steps of the magic.

[Rebekah]

I'm still in awe that you can develop your photos at home...thanks for posting these thorough directions.