My SX-70 won't open!!

RattyMouse · Jun 3, 2016

Just got it and the second stage of the camera, the body, won't open. The small viewfinder section opens but that is it.

How can I get this camera open? Any ideas?

Thanks,

Truzi · Jun 3, 2016

Be careful, but on mine, if I continue pulling gently on the "viewfinder" section the rest will follow. I don't have it handy, but if I recall, grab the part closest to the rear of the camera and pull at a slight angle. Just do it gently but firmly so you know when to stop if it refuses to open.

On second thought - check youtube:

Assuming the camera is functioning correctly, you will worry that you'll break it the first few times. It feels a bit "odd" and fragile until you get used to opening it.

RattyMouse · Jun 3, 2016

Thanks! Got it open. I was just scared that if I pulled too hard I'd break it. Now I know how hard to pull.

Truzi · Jun 3, 2016

Glad I could halp.

I've had mine for years (it was my Grandfather's), but don't use it often - so I still worry about breaking it every time i pull it out to shoot a few packs.

Be sure to let us know how it's working for you.

RattyMouse · Jun 3, 2016

Truzi said:
Glad I could halp.

I've had mine for years (it was my Grandfather's), but don't use it often - so I still worry about breaking it every time i pull it out to shoot a few packs.

Be sure to let us know how it's working for you.

First shot sucked. I'm not used to shooting without shutter speed information an so was waaay under any useable shutter speed. I'll shoot during daylight tomorrow.

Theo Sulphate · Jun 3, 2016

It's basically a daylight camera - if you set it flat on a table or something for timed low-light exposures, be sure not to block the ejection flap in front.

Of all my shots of Yosemite, the SX-70 photos were the best - I had two of them scanned, enlarged to 8x10, and framed. Made with the original SX-70 film, they have a pastel dreamy quality about them. Probably two of the nicest photos I've made.

mooseontheloose · Jun 3, 2016

The lens is f/8 and the fastest shutter speed ranges from 1/175 to 10s, so without a flash or it being on a tripod (or something steady), and with SX-70 film at 160 ISO, handheld indoor shots will probably not ever work out, unless you use the 600 speed film instead.

Richard S. (rich815) · Jun 3, 2016

Crazy thing about SX-70 cameras. They never open. Until they do. ;-)

mshchem · Jun 3, 2016

I've always popped it open, then push the metal support with my left thumb to lock it open. I don't know if that's the way you're supposed to do it. I was a teenage kid when the first SX-70s came out. It was pure space age magic. Truly a miraculous device.
Mike

My SX-70 won't open!!

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