How can I reload an Instamatic camera ?

Question

For a school photography project I have to use a film camera.

For old times sake, I would like to reload the empty 126 film cassette in my Mom's old Kodak Instamatic cause I hear they make way cool images like a Holga.

I need illustrated clear directions on how to reload an Instamatic.

I can use the school darkroom if this is required.

Later we will develop the film the old-fashioned way and print it ourselves. Maybe next class we will get to use digital LOLZ.

Answer 1

Wow...I haven't heard of those in a long time.  It was my first camera about 30 years ago.  There are places that still sell 126 film (eBay mostly).  No idea about the quality or age, but that may be a much easier route than trying to load one of those cartridges.

Answer 2

Sounds like you will be using black and white film.

It depends on the model of the Instamatic you are planning to use.

If your Mom's Kodak Instamatic camera is a common one, for instance: the 100, 104, 300, 304, or even the beautiful German-made model 500 it is fairly easy.

For these cameras all you have to do is crack open the old 126 case, and reload with 100 or 200 speed 135 film.

The only special equipment you'll need is black masking tape to reseal the 126 cartridge. You can buy this at art supply stores.

The clearest web site I have found with easy instructions for beginners is at instructables:

http://www.instructables.com/id/Instamat...

It also has links to some very cool videos including a completely over-the-top 1960s discotheque TV ad from Kodak.

The key to all this is to learn how to trick the Instamatic into thinking it has 126 film with only one perforation per exposure. 135 film has continuous perforations along both edges.

To trick the Instamatic you will hold the shutter button down to lock the perforation sensor, then wind, then let up on the shutter button to release the perforation sensor, wind again, and finally take your picture.

This is really easy to do. Check out the full instructions with color photos I found on Instructables.

Answer 3

126 film comes inclosed in a cartridge ~so just open the back and drop in the cartridge~~the problem will be finding the film ~call a camera shop if there is one in your area ~they may order it for you if it is still available ~~Good Luck with your project ~~"E"