Keeping track of different film in different bodies

I use the round self stick color coding dots (each about the size of a US Nickel). They come on sheets, of 28 to sheet, four colors on each sheet. In addition to a different color for each film, I write the film type (Tri-X for example) and the ISO I'm exposing it at on the dot and stick it on the film can or cartridge, then stick it on the bottom of the camera when I load it. When I change film, I transfer the dot back to the film cartridge or can. Each sheet of the dots is about 3x6 inches and easily fits in camera bag or pocket.
 
The tape is use is not really masking tape- it's called paper tape; sold at photo and art supply stores. It's similar to the blue painters tape, but comes in a variety of colors; I use white. Anyway, it doesn't leave residue on the camera.
 
Seriously, many of these suggestions are not viable if you concentrate on your work and/or work in the field. If it can fall off or wipe off, it will. You can only really count on tape and marker or colored labels that STICK on with a strong adhesive. I used to use gaffers tape bcs it's more durable than paper tape.
 
I use the Softies to differentiate between films. Green is 400 or XX @320, red is 100 and blue is faster film(usually Neopan 1600).
Most of my M's have notches filed in the filmgate and when i load the camera, the first two shots is of a small "white board" with cameras # and the lens. Even if I shoot more than 1 roll with that body - I can see which body is used.
I also shoot the first 1-2 frames of a new roll of the same subject that ended the previous roll. This way I get the sequence right.
For travel, with a bigger volume of film, I carry a marker (Faber Castell Permanent Ink) and simply do a running "tally" of the films. Occasionally date/place too.
 
Or you can take really drastic steps.
About ten years ago I bought a junked 35mm film camera back that had a memo holder, stripped it off and glued it to a Nikon F back.
Now I just tear off the end tab from the cardboard film box, or write the information on a piece of paper, and slip it into the memo holder.
For my Nikon rangefinders, I got plastic memo holders (which might still be available as an accessory in large camera stores, on ebay or at flea markets) and sewed them to one end of the end of the camera straps.
Works for me.

p.s. after a bit of searching:
If they can't be sourced as an available accessory, there are tons of "As Is" film bodies available from KEH for as little as $3.00 each. The trick is to first do a bit of research to be certain that anything you wish to purchase did in fact have a memo holder on its film back, and that the particular camera has not been stripped of its back.
 
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cfritze said:
I cut an identifying square segment out of the cardboard film box to fit hot shoe
Click to expand...

Me too. Works great and is simple. I cut a strip from the end of the box and just fold it in half, so the thickness keeps it snug in the hotshoe. They don't fall out. I've got a bunch of these kicking around in the studio on the shelf above the camera cabinet, and more in the bag.
 
Wow. Some elaborate systems this morning.
The tape and sharpie as well as the hotshoe idea (brilliant!) really do sound like they're right up my alley -- cheap and easy.
Perhaps taking the hotshoe suggestion further: pre-cut some cartons, thus eliminating scissors in the field.
Indeed, some of the more elaborate systems look to be more durable too.

Just to clarify why I have 3 bodies with (possibly) 3 different types of film; frankly I don't know why.:) I do know at that time I had 1 body to test a lens and another for a project. The third is a big question mark. Since, then I reorganized the photo cabinets, got sidetracked with life, shot lots of MF, and then just flat-out forgot what the heck I was doing with the Leicas. I think some of you can identify. :p

Anyways, thanks a bunch everyone.
 
Rick, you promised to shoot a post it indicating camera/lens combo, so why not do a self portrait in a mirror :)
If you change lens 36 times within a roll, don't make me wrong, some of us have more lenses than that, you end up with 36 portraits, LOL :)
 
what if you use different lenses on the camera in a roll?? You really need to take notes then :)

I sometimes understand from the FOV, lens characteristics etc.. but sometimes...no clue
 
Like a few others I just cut out a piece of the film box with type & speed showing and insert it in the hot shoe, simple, free and effective.
 
I'm a slow shooter, so when in doubt I can afford to take the film out to have a look at it. I have a mark scribed on the film leader that helps me to load it again and continue without skipping any frames. But most of the time I shoot with one camera only and change films mid-roll, so I know the film in camera by checking the ones that are out at the moment.
 
Film and body markings

Film and body markings

How to keep track of different films in different bodies, also including mid roll changes (every roll gets a unique number).

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Additionally I carry one business card size note for each film roll with shot details (time+date, lens, exposure information...).
 
I have HAMA memo holders, which hold the end flap from a box of film, on most of my bodies. Unfortunately they don't make these any more. You can also put a loop of thick masking tape on the back side of the film box end, and attach it to the back of the camera that way. I have never had one fall off in all these years of use.
 
sometimes write on a piece of tape. Sometimes, take the sticker off the film canister and put it on the baseplate.
 
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