Sounds like he is in pre-release mood. By pressing the button just below the film advance crank, the mirror goes up and the rear curtains open.......the next step is to take the exposure. Press the shutter release button and after the exposure the camera should be ready for the next shot as the mirror returns and the film advance will engage. This pre-release mood is useful for long exposures on a tripod to prevent camera due to mirror functions during the exposure. Hope this helps.
Ron