How do i prevent this?

[nomadia]

It's been a while since I shot film and my first time in processing my own film. I'm not liking the light streaks, but got no idea how to prevent this. Is this a film developing error? I shot this with a pre-war super ikonta 532/16 using expired tmax 400 (1989) developed in Xtol. Thank you.

 

[nikon_sam]

Usually happens when struggling while loading onto developing reels...I get them if I have problems with the SS reels...I don't normally have problems with the Paterson (plastic) reels...
I use a tent style changing bag so I have plenty of room while loading reels...sometimes I'll load the reels in a dark room without the bag...
Slow down, don't struggle with the film...try to handle it as gently as possible...
Could happen while loading film into the camera but I haven't had that problem...

 

[Mr_Flibble]

Looks like the film got buckled pretty badly when it was loaded into the developing spiral.


I doubt they are light leaks. But you might want to check the bellows anyway.

 

[nomadia]

Thank you for the fast replies. I guess I'll get these in my first few forays in developing. Cheers everyone.

 

[Ronald M]

Cinch marks from bending the film more than necessary to get it onto the reel.

Hold film between thumb and forefinger and rest both on the outer wrap of reel to steady them.

Pust the film into the center locking it, then bend as above while turning reel with other hand and it just flows on.

I always put the end of the outer wrap at 7:00 coming from 12:00 clockwise. If you go in the wrong direction the film will not load and you WILL kink the edges making loading impossible. Retry from other end.

Practice in daylight with scrap roll.

 

[nomadia]

Thanks, Ronald!

 

[oftheherd]

Cinch marks from bending the film more than necessary to get it onto the reel.

Hold film between thumb and forefinger and rest both on the outer wrap of reel to steady them.

Pust the film into the center locking it, then bend as above while turning reel with other hand and it just flows on.

I always put the end of the outer wrap at 7:00 coming from 12:00 clockwise. If you go in the wrong direction the film will not load and you WILL kink the edges making loading impossible. Retry from other end.

Practice in daylight with scrap roll.

Do what works for you. I grasp the film between my thumb and middle finger, using my index finger placed gently over the middle of the film. That allows me to keep track of the bulge of the film and if helps me keep the film in the grooves. I lift the index finger when pulling my hand back for another grip. I always pull a couple of times, back and forth, testing for that small amount of play that tells me it isn't binding anywhere. If it's binding, I pull it out and start over. If you haven't already, sacrifice a roll, or use that one if you haven't cut it, and try practicing in daylight a few times, watching what you are doing, the in daylight with your eyes closed. After that it shouldn't be too difficult.

Sound complicated, but it gets to be like riding a bicycle; you learn and then never forget.

 

[Livesteamer]

Another thing, your hands need to be clean and dry. If your hands are damp, the film will not slide smoothly thru them. Good Luck. Joe

 

[NY_Dan]

Here's a tip: When you remove the film from the paper, leave the tape on the film and fold it over the film edge -- this gives you a more secure starting point. I like stainless reels. Before loading, I have them all properly orientated so the correct load side faces right. Tmax is a lot thicker than Tri X, and is usually much easier to load. I often get the marks you have, but only on the first 1/2 inch or so that goes onto the reel. I'm very conscious of not bending the film past the first 1/2 inch. For the beginner, I recommend they use one roll for practicing.

 

[Guest]

Simple solution.

Simple solution.

get a low cost film and open it up, practice with it in day light, close your eyes and practice. You will soon feel the whole job a lot easier.