|
|
|
| |
A film counter is one of the few features that every 35mm camera seems to have. However, film counters work in different ways depending upon the camera model. Here are three main types:
1. Counter moves slightly every time film is advanced... The majority of 35mm cameras use this method. The analog counter moves just enough to count one exposure when the film is advanced.
A couple examples of cameras which use this method include the Lavec TC-305 and the Olympus Shoot 'n Go "R".
2. Entire counter wheel spins... This method turns the counter wheel all the way around and just enough more so that the pointer indicates one exposure higher each time the film is advanced.
Fewer cameras use this technique; a couple examples are the Windsor WX-3 and the Ansco 1065.
3. Digital counter... Some (usually high-end) film cameras use a digital counter that appears on an LCD screen. Such cameras are typically motorized and require batteries.
A few cameras like the Weston WX-7 and Bell & Howell 35J have a counter which can be manually adjusted - usually to reset it after a roll of film is removed. Most automatically reset the film counter when the back door is opened.
Film counters usually have a maximum number of exposures around 36, occasionally 37 or 38. Depending upon the individual counter, it may stop advancing when it reaches the limit, or it might start again at the beginning (on zero or "S").
These counters usually function reliably and there's rarely any problems with them. However, if you think a counter is wrong there's a chance it is. A few counters have been known to reset in the middle of a roll of film or double the number of exposures.
(C) 2010 LessWaiting.com. Best Viewed at 640x480 or 800x600 Resolution