Light leak

DrPablo

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Joined
Aug 16, 2006
Messages
814
Location
North Caroli
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Multi Format
I'm worried that my 8x10 view camera has light leak, most likely around the rear standard.

How might I be able to test this?

The best idea I have is to put in a sheet of film, remove the darkslide, leave it there for a minute without triggering the shutter, then develop it side by side with a negative that hasn't been exposed at all.

The next question would be what I can do about it if it's there.
 

Kino

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Jan 20, 2006
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Orange, Virginia
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Why not use photographic paper? It's a lot cheaper, but you might have to leave the slide out longer...

As for what to do, that depends upon where it is leaking...
 

Murray@uptowngallery

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Joined
Sep 24, 2003
Messages
1,041
Location
Holland, MI
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Pinhole
bad leaks will be visible with a bright light inside in a darkroom.

I use a 7-led flashlight.

When I get it to the point I can't see leaks with flashlight, then I put a flash inside and set it off. Another level of finer leaks becomes visible.

I find it easier to start out with the flashlight because it's on continuously and can be aimed a little too.

Works with wind instrument pads too (except a flash won't fit).
 

Harrigan

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Joined
May 25, 2006
Messages
343
Location
Shenadoah Va
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Large Format
You can test it by going into a dark room and inserting a FH into the camera. No film or paper required. Take a light with a 60 watt or 100 watt bulb and insert it into the camera front. Move this around inside the camera and try to see if any light leaks out the back anywhere. If you find any light leaking out the back you know you have a problem.
 

Changeling1

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Joined
Mar 19, 2005
Messages
655
Location
Southern Cal
Format
4x5 Format

After you check the camera you need to check your film-holders also. Don't buy used film holders without the option of returning them if they leak. Install printing paper instead of film of course, to check.
 
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