How to Load Film in a Rollei TLR

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Determine the type of film that it takes.

   It could take 117 or it might be 120 or even something more exotic like
   127.
   
   As only the very first two models of Rolleiflex use 117, and the "Baby" cameras all have 6cm focal length lenses; if your camera has a
   7.5cm lens or 8cm lens, you will need 120 Roll Film.
   
   Some models of Rolleiflex can be fitted with a 35mm adapter, called a Rolleikin.
   
   These instructions do not cover operation with a Rolleikin, so if you desire to use 35mm film, please consult your owners manual.
2. 2

   Step 2: Locate the film compartment.

   On a flat surface, flip the camera upside down there is a latch on the bottom between the two front feet. , There should be labels for O and C. ,,,,, You will need to pull the spool pin out, and properly align the drive sprocket with the slot in the end of the empty spool. , Now remove the paper wrapper that is holding the backing paper, in place.
   
   You do this now, when the film is in the camera, to stop the film from unrolling, while it is being handled. , This is what will start the counter when you advance the film. , Once inserted, turn the film advance crank so the empty spool completes one revolution. , Advance the film with the crank until it stops, the number in the counter window will be
   1. ,
3. 3

   Step 3: Push this in the direction of the arrow as far as it will go.

4. 4

   Step 4: Pull the latch or tab up.

5. 5

   Step 5: Swing the latch up

6. 6

   Step 6: and while pulling on the latch

7. 7

   Step 7: open the back of the camera.

8. 8

   Step 8: With the back open

9. 9

   Step 9: pull the spool pin out.

10. 10

    Step 10: Remove the empty spool

11. 11

    Step 11: located at the bottom front of the camera.

12. 12

    Step 12: Put the empty spool between the spool pin

13. 13

    Step 13: and drive sprocket

14. 14

    Step 14: at the top of the film chamber (the area just below the focus hood).

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    Step 15: After removing the film from the box

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    Step 16: and discarding the plastic outer wrapper

17. 17

    Step 17: place the new roll of film between the spool pins

18. 18

    Step 18: so the paper backing comes off the roll and goes straight across the film gate.

19. 19

    Step 19: Take the backing paper tab

20. 20

    Step 20: and feed it through (between) metal film sensor rollers.

21. 21

    Step 21: Turn the crank so the slot in the empty spool (from 3 above) is facing out

22. 22

    Step 22: then pull enough of the paper backing out

23. 23

    Step 23: to allow you to insert the tab into the slot in the empty spool.

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    Step 24: and latch the back on your camera.

25. 25

    Step 25: Go out and shoot!

Detailed Guide

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