How do I load this thing?

July 26, 2006 8:45 PM

I recently bought a used Bolex H16 Reflex Motion Film Camera. Now my problem is. . .I have no idea how to load the film.

I have googled, and I've found some confusing instructions. I think ideally I would be able to find out hands on with someone who really knows how to do it. I called the local camera stores and they said they couldn't help (not any big city). I don't really want to take a whole film class to learn.

I've tried trial and error with the instructions I had found, but all I've done is wasted expensive film stock.

My question: How could I best find someone who knows how to load this thing and would be willing to show me. I am willing to pay something. Secondarily, maybe your search skills are better then mine – can you find a comprehensive, visual instruction online that helps? (I've seen the tutorial CD/DVD for sale on eBay already. I will probably buy it at some point.)

posted by visual mechanic to Media & Arts (6 answers total)

Would this help at all? It's pretty comprehensive and has a few good diagrams. Not as good as hands-on, of course.

Another thought - check the tags (there are no groups) at flickr for people who own the same camera and see if any live near you.
posted by iconomy at 9:03 PM on July 26, 2006

Oops - there is one Bolex group, and at least one of the members has your camera. I was looking for a Bolex H16 group specifically, which is why I missed it.
posted by iconomy at 9:07 PM on July 26, 2006

First of all, there are a lot of different H16 models. I've used a couple of them, but I don't know how different they can get. It's a while since I did it, so I can't tell you from memory how to do the loading, but I can assure you once you get the basics it is pretty simple.

I might suggest visiting a film school, maybe asking if you can put up a notice like "$ for an hour of instruction in basic bolex use". With a few tips from an experienced practitioner, you'll probably get the hang of it.

Also, while learning, look out for any and all cheap stock/off-cuts to practise with. It's totally cool to have your first 16mm print, regardless of the quality of the stock.
posted by MetaMonkey at 10:27 PM on July 26, 2006

You might stop by your local art school that has film classes and offer a student a cup of joe for a 5 minute lesson.

I recall from an old film class that loading the film wasn't enough. You also had to go around the edge of the removable plate with black "film tape" which kept any light from leaking in. I'm not sure if it's just that our class had some beat up cameras or if this was a general rule for for everyone.
posted by blueberry at 11:34 PM on July 26, 2006

H16s are a doddle to load. Because they load with 50ft daylight spools, there's no need to have your hands fumbling about in a changing bag -- just load the film away from direct sunlight/strong light.

They load automatically aswell. See those arrows? It's been a while since I've used a Bolex but I think it forms the loop automatically -- though not certain on that.

Nevermind me, here's the manual.

Also, it'd be worth checking out an older copy of the American Cinematographer's Manual. One from the 70s should have all the references you need.
posted by popcassady at 2:43 AM on July 27, 2006

You really won't have much trouble if you follow the instructions. The bolex is just about the easiest film camera to load, especially with its loop formers.

As for the daylight spools, it still helps to load in reduced light, or at least the shade.
posted by MattS at 7:44 AM on July 27, 2006