The mini is great - 35mm processing is cheaper usually and more widely available. Also the size of the mini is ideal and it is fairly simple to use. Happy snapping! :)
@kikinatorrrr I was having a similar problem. Make sure you have reset the counter by tripping the shutter with no film in the camera, the back removed and before you drop in the new roll of film. To help the take up spool grab the film, crimping the end so there is a bend it it helps.
@ckisstheroses The advance mechanism will auto adjust for half frame mode. The winder will then advance each frame for 1/2 the width of a standard 35mm frame. You still need to wind after each shot.
The 17x24 frame is a smaller portrait (vertical rectangle) format, while the 24x25 is the square format. The 17x24 is also called a half-frame format, because it is half the size of the standard 35mm frame. You will get twice as many photos with the half-frame format. Be aware, that you shouldn't switch back and forth on the formats on the same roll. The photo lab automated machines may cut images in half, if you throw an odd half frame format in with the full frame.
@chrisssti3l The sprocket holes in the film drive the sprocket gear, which turns the film counter. Make sure you reset the film counter by tripping the shutter with the camera back off and before you put in the new roll.
Advance the film until the wheel stops. It will only take a partial turn. Don't worry, go ahead and finish out the roll. Be sure to tell the lab tech that the negatives are square, centered on a 35mm frame and that you want your prints or scans centered. When reloading the camera, be sure to click the shutter after you have removed the exposed roll and before you put in the new roll, so the film counter will reset.
@SoniClub Yes, because the sprockets are what drive the film counter and advance mechanism. Use light thumb pressure on the film next to the film cassette, to give enough tension as you wind the film onto the take-up spool. This should give it enough tension so that everything properly engages.
Enjoitoday, The black stripe on either side is normal, since the camera is designed to shoot on a standard 35mm frame, so that it can be processed and printed at any standard 1-hour lab.
@TheIdiotWithACamera The Diana Mini's counter must be manually reset after each roll. After unloading the camera, remove the roll of film, and with the camera back still off, trip the shutter. This will reset the counter. Then load the camera with a new roll.
@taylororoRAWR Film advance problems are usually due to not resetting the film counter between rolls. After unloading the camera, remove the exposed roll, then trip the shutter to reset the film counter. Then install and load a fresh roll of film.
Yes. If you shot half frame be sure to let them know. If you shot square neg, tell the tech or write in the special instructions that the film is square negs centered on the 35mm frame and that you want your prints or scans to be centered.
@merennna If the film keeps getting stuck, it may be that the film counter needs to be reset. The Diana Mini's counter must be manually reset after each roll. After unloading the camera, remove the roll of film, and with the camera back still off, trip the shutter. This will reset the counter. Then load the camera with a new roll.
this camera ate my film twice. Really make sure it is on the top sockets or it will rip your film. this time i took a blank exposure which i thought was dumb and there is a button on the bottom of the case i pressed in twice. so far it sounds like its working.
When you can't turn the winder knob anymore and the counter indicates you are around the number of frames for the roll. You must manually reset the counter when you reload by tipping the shutter with the camera back open.
@GlamGlitters21 Hi Alice. When loading the film, I use light pressure from my index finger on the sprocket edge of the film towards the bottom part of the camera. the light pressure helps the sprockets grab the teeth of the takeup spool.
@sikki72 ISO 64 may be a little too slow, except in the brightest sunlight. ISO 100 is passable in bright sunlight, but maybe you will want to use the cloudy aperture setting.
@bucketofpopcorn The film counter must be reset by tripping the shutter with the camera back off, and before you drop in a new roll of film. Bending the tip of the film helps the take up spool grab the film leader. you can also try holding your finger lightly on the bottom line of sprockets as you wind the film onto the take-up spool. The very light pressure will keep the film sprocket holes engaged in the film counter sprocket.
Yes, it is okay to leave the cap off, as long as you don't keep your camera in a bag with pointy stuff. I keep my lens caps, but don't usually carry them around with the cap on for the very same reason!
Hey Kai, I have a question. I loaded the film as you did in the video, however when I get to the step of winding the knob until it stops - my knob doesn't stop, it can keep going...It still has an "E" the exposure counter. Did I miss a step? Should I take the film out and try again or will that ruin the film? Thank you so much!!!
@dancinsteph sorry about my late response. I missed several questions here. The sprockets stop after the film is advanced. They should release and advance again after the shutter is tripped. If the film won't advance after the shutter is tripped, you are either at the end of the roll or perhaps the camera is defective.
Vbskull, I sometimes have that problem. It usually means I forgot to trip the shutter before loading the film. Unload the film from the take-up spool, trip the shutter and try reloading from there.
It can do that if you have a 24 or 36 exposure roll in the camera and the slide switch on the back is set to the left (24x17), which is the half-frame mode. If this is the case, it will go all the way up to 48 on a 24exp. roll or 72 on a 36exp roll.
@sunshineloveshappy Even though it only has the 1 aperture, I think the Holga 135BC is a good camera for a beginner. It's operation is a little easier than the Mini. For indoors or at night, you will need to use a flash unit, or put the camera on a tripod and use a cable release and the B shutter setting.
It sounds like you figured it out. I think the film wasn't being picked up by the take-up spool and the winder knob would keep turning, since the film counter sprocket wasn't turning.
@kymlam The little square window is the film counter. Before loading the camera , this counter must be reset by opening the camera back and tripping the shutter release. When advancing the film, you should see a progression of numbers. I don't recall seeing the E on the left and right in the window. Keep shooting and advancing the film. If it proceeds normally, all is well.
Yes, if you use half frame mode, the camera will automatically advance the film a half frame and the counter will go up to 48 (24exp roll) or 72 (36exp roll). It's not a good idea to mix 24x24 photos with your 24x17 half frame images. The lab won't know how to cut the negs and may not be able to print or scan your photos either.
@kahloholic part 1 Go ahead and rewind. Mixed frames are not a good idea. The problem is that if you've shot an odd number of half frames, the automated lab print machine will start printing the square frames in the wrong place, with the edge of the frame in the middle, essentially cutting the image in half. The lab normally prints the half frames 2-up on a 4x6, but you need to explain to the lab that you have a mix of half frame and full frame.
@kymlam I think the "E" you see on the right is actually the number "3". At first, I thought the same as you, but if you continue shooting you'll soon see a "5" :)
if the counter is not moving, there are a couple of possible causes. 1. The shutter wasn't tripped with the camera back off and no film loaded to reset the film counter. 2. The film is not engaging the sprocket gear that runs the film counter. In either case, try unloading the camera and reloading, making sure to trip the shutter with the camera back off and no film in the camera.
@lainholic It may be getting stuck if you forget to reset the film counter after unloading the previous roll of film. With the exposed roll of film removed, and before you drop in the next roll of film, trip the shutter to reset the film counter.
@kahloholic part 2 The Mini full frames are square, and should be printed centered on the 4x6. Most labs will print 4x6 as their standard print size. I don't think there are many that will cut them down to square for you. Ask them if they can help you out with this roll, but they may not understand or may be unwilling to spend the extra time and effort to print them all correctly.
@kikinatorrrr When this happens, it is uusually because the film counter has not been reset between rolls of film.. If I've just losded the roll, I will unload the film by carefully rewinding the roll, but not all the way, so the film leader is still sticking out. Then I will open the camera remove the roll of film. Then I reset the film counter by tripping the shutter with the back off. Then I reload the roll of film.
@BARKAYAK Diana Mini shoots both square 24x24 and half frame (17x24). The Golden Half only shoots half frame. Not sure which is better. Go to Flickr and take a close look at the groups devoted to these cameras and see if you can tell the diff.
Multiple exposures, yes, panoramic exposures, not really. Not at all in square format mode, but you can probably get something going using the half-frame mode. It won't have the overlapping effect of the Diana+ panorama mode. I'm still testing the camera, but so far, I like it!
@katexkandykane This is a film camera, so you won't know if your photos come out until your get your film processed. If you are new to film photography, you should seriously consider getting a 35mm lo-fi camera, rather than the more difficult to learn with DIana F+ in the Deluxe Package. The package does come with a 35mm film adapter back, but this is still more trouble to use than a dedicated 35mm film camera. I suggest you look at the straight 35mm lo-fi camera options like the Holga 135.
The best way to get the photos digitized is to have the lab processing your film put the images on a CD. Most labs will offer this service for a few dollars. If your laptop doesn't have a CD drive, see if they will download to a flash thumb drive (if you supply the drive).
Rebecca clover, it sound like the film counter still needs to be reset. Try unloading the camera, then reloading, making sure to trip the shutter to reset the film counter with the camera back off and no film in the camera. Try that and then reload the camera.
Hi Kai, Thanks for your video. I'm still having problems. The sprocket on the take-up spool is fine. That's working. However, the teeth on the spool under the view finder aren't rotating??? Any tips? Fingers crossed!
@jg112393 The difference is the film. It may not seem like much, but 120 film gives an excellent image, but costs more per roll, per frame, and is harder to find a lab to get processed. Look around your area, and see if you can locate a local lab that can handle 120 film before you get a 120 film camera.
@paytonlovesyou11 The viewfinder isn't wysiwig, it's just a window over the lens, so no, the lens won't show up in your photos. You are correct, it's just a guide.
Sorry girlrita, I missed your follow up questions! 1. The film counter is pretty squirrely on the Mini. I always have a hard time figuring out exactly how many frames are left, but you can usually see enough of the numbers on the counter to get a general idea. 2. Unless you are best friends with the lab tech, I don't recommend switching formats mid-roll. It will give the tech a headache trying to print your roll, with the mix of half and full frame images
the mini looks fun. ever use a vintage diana the prints come out way different than the lomography remakes. the lens has a really nice softness and light vignette rather than hard black vignettes and sharp centers with edge blur.
......I have a HUGE question @kaituba , do i need to use the flash with the colored gel filters inorder to achieve a colored look during day time?? what setting should I put the camera in when i use the flash and colored gel during daytime and night time? i need tips! your videos are awesome btw! pls. reply back if you can. thankss
@kattoo13 If the mechanism locks when winding to frame one, tripping the shutter will release the winding mechanism. If it's getting stuck between frames during a roll, then you might have a defective camera. Contact Lomography for help. If broken, they will get you a replacement, if the camera is still under warranty.
@ant1939 Any 35mm film can be used in any 35mm slr camera. Lomography film has no special properties and won't give your photos the "Lomo" look if used in a slr. The lo-fi lens is what imparts most of the lo-fi look to the images.
Can you do panoramic/multiple exposures on this camera. To me this camera looks like a medium format Diana but does not have the same features. The only reason I might go to this is because people around me do not print medium format film. Let me know what you think.
@jjayeLLL The switching mechanism isn't very robust. My camera is stuck in full frame mode, but I don't mind. If your camera is new, contact Lomography for a replacement.
@AAproductions1994 It sounds like a misloaded roll of film. Did you reset the film counter by snapping the shutter with the camera back off before you loaded the film? Forgetting to do this can sometimes cause the winder mechanism to malfunction. Try this. Push the rewind button on the bottom of the camera, then carefully and slooowly rewind the film. As soon as you hear a little snap of the film coming off the take up spool, stop, then open the camera back. Reset the shutter. Reload.
@kattoo13 Before loading a new roll of film, be sure to reset the film counter.With no film in the camera, and the back off, trip the shutter. To help guide the film onto the takeup spool, I use my index finger to apply very light pressure on the take up spool on the bottom. This helps guide the film on the the spool, and keeps it from pulling off the upper teeth.
@kaituba I've tried to actually rewind it, I held the rewind button and turned it as well, but didn't sound the same as the time when I previously took out my last roll of film. As I took the back off, The film was still attached, still a little long too. Should I try another roll?
@AAproductions1994 We're you mid-roll when it got stuck? It is possible you were at the end of the roll, and it wasn't stuck, it was just at the end. Reset the counter. Try another roll.
Hi I got my Diana Mini, and your videos were so helpful, Thanks! Just one question I got the Lomography B&W Orca 100 ISO 110 Film, and I have no idea how to load it in the camera, can you please please please make a video on it, Thanks
Oops..one more question!! I have noticed when I try and wind the film (following your steps), it can sometimes get stuck..Is there a trick to getting the winding mechanism to move, without putting stress on it? Thank you so much!!
Is this camera good for beginners ? Good for day and night ? Indoors ? Was looking at the Holga 135Bc but there's only one aperture setting, so it isn't really good right ? Thanks.
hi kai! when i look through the view finder of my mini diana, I can see the lens.. I know thats how its supposed to be but I was wondering if the lens is going to show up in my picures? or is the viewfinder just a guide to show you approximatley what your picture will look like. please help me! thank you!
@GabieLazareff It's hard to tell what might be wrong, because there are several different things that may be going on. Are the photos square or a tall rectangle? If they are square, but the image is on the left or right of a rectangular print, you are ok. Next time, tell the lab tech you want the images centered. If you are getting tall rectangles, but with spaces between the frames, then the camera is set to half frame, but the film advance is winding a full frame. Continued to Part 2>>>>>
@elleisbeautiful Yes, there are several online retailers that sell the flash separately. Lomography, Amazon, BH PhotoVideo, Freestyle Photo Supply. Sorry, I can't put in direct links in these comments. Google these retailers.
@jakesakook Sorry, I missed this question last month. There is usually a big difference. to CD, $2-3. Prints, $8-12. Best way to do this is get the CD. Pick your images, then get those printed.
@HongKongBangBang You need a film leader retriever. You can get one from Adorama or BH Photo Video. I also have a video showing how to use one here on youtube: How to use a 35mm Film Leader Retriever.
On my first roll and the counter is stuck at 33. I have mixed half frame and full frame. Should I rewind the film where it is? Or does the counter go up to 72? What should I tell the lab? If I used full frame square, will they print each one on a separate 4x6 photo? Or will the frames be spread out irregularly on the 4x6 prints? What about half frame, or overlapping? I understand how these shots will line up on the negative, but it's not like a standard 35mm where each frame fits on a print...
Starzncarz, You need to trip the shutter to reset the film counter with the camera back off and no film in the camera. Try that and then load the camera per usual.
thanks for the tutorial kai, really helpful, i just bought my diana mini. ^__^ really excited to use it.. about the frame options (rectangle and square) does it mean you have to stick to one kind of format or you can change it anytime?? and also about the advance wheel what are those little white numbers indicate.. like 3, 6 etc.. does it mean you about the shots youve taken?
hey kai, just wondering.. is there any way to stop the sprockets from ripping my film when i use the advance wheel. sometimes even the advance wheel doesn't budge and it ends up snapping the film.
@cierseruwal If it works on a different camera, then there might be something wrong with the camera. Contact lomography and see if there is something they can suggest to get it working again. If you have purchased the camera recently, you can probably get it replaced.
Hi, I've followed your instructions and they are great. when i take a picture and advanced the film it had an E in the window, is that suppose to be there? :)
The sprockets at the top are tearing the holes apart when I try to wind. What do I do? I have tried opening it and seeing if what the problem is but it works until I put the cover back on.
Or if you want to do it yourself you can get a epson v500 or v600 for the same price as some point and shoot cameras. It is a lot more fun to have control of the entire process(Shoot, Develop, Scan, Edit, Upload, Print, Enjoy).
okay its my second time loading this camera, and i got a little confused. when you turn the wheel, is the sprocket gear spool supposed to move as well? i find that when i turn it, the top sprockets dont turn WITH the film, the flim just kinda slides over it and then aligns itself, and then over it, and then aligns itself. is that correct?
hey do u use a photo film scanner? or do u develop them somewhere? havent' found a place only like a place called japan camera would do it . 59cents each print. is that worth it ?
>>>>Part 2 With no film in the camera, take the back off, and try flipping the half-frame selector back and forth. Some part of the mechanism may have become jammed and may free up with a little movement. If this doesnt' fix the camera, and it is new, it will be under warranty. Contact Lomography and tell them the problem you are having.
hi kai, i've loaded my film and snapped a few pictures. i'm not sure what im supposed to see in the little square below the advance wheel. ive turned the wheel till it stopped and its showing a "reversed E on the left and a E on the right" in the little square, is this right?
hey kai. :3 So my diana mini isn't excepting the film properly. The sprocket gear spool won't rotate with the take-up spool and my film keeps on getting jammed. Is the sprocket gear spool supposed to move when you turn the advance wheel? Or am I just loading the film wrong?
The mini is great - 35mm processing is cheaper usually and more widely available. Also the size of the mini is ideal and it is fairly simple to use. Happy snapping! :)
Thank you so much for this video. I have a Lomography Fisheye and should be getting my Diana Mini sometime this week! This was a huge help.
Yes, any store-bought film will work, but I find that I like the saturated color from Fujifilm Superia or 400H, or Kodak's Portra Ultra Vivid films.
@kikinatorrrr I was having a similar problem. Make sure you have reset the counter by tripping the shutter with no film in the camera, the back removed and before you drop in the new roll of film. To help the take up spool grab the film, crimping the end so there is a bend it it helps.
@TheSteezygee Glad you figured it out. I tried removing it like you would a strap from a vintage Diana, but couldn't seem to work it off.
Thank you! I was a little unsure, but you were very thorough and the video was simple - great!
@ckisstheroses The advance mechanism will auto adjust for half frame mode. The winder will then advance each frame for 1/2 the width of a standard 35mm frame. You still need to wind after each shot.
The 17x24 frame is a smaller portrait (vertical rectangle) format, while the 24x25 is the square format. The 17x24 is also called a half-frame format, because it is half the size of the standard 35mm frame. You will get twice as many photos with the half-frame format. Be aware, that you shouldn't switch back and forth on the formats on the same roll. The photo lab automated machines may cut images in half, if you throw an odd half frame format in with the full frame.
Sorry, is it ok to put a iso 200/24, 24x36mm film inside?
@chrisssti3l The sprocket holes in the film drive the sprocket gear, which turns the film counter. Make sure you reset the film counter by tripping the shutter with the camera back off and before you put in the new roll.
Advance the film until the wheel stops. It will only take a partial turn. Don't worry, go ahead and finish out the roll. Be sure to tell the lab tech that the negatives are square, centered on a 35mm frame and that you want your prints or scans centered.
When reloading the camera, be sure to click the shutter after you have removed the exposed roll and before you put in the new roll, so the film counter will reset.
@SoniClub Yes, because the sprockets are what drive the film counter and advance mechanism. Use light thumb pressure on the film next to the film cassette, to give enough tension as you wind the film onto the take-up spool. This should give it enough tension so that everything properly engages.
Thank you this was so Helpful lol...Im a little slow when it comes to loading film cameras :)
Enjoitoday, The black stripe on either side is normal, since the camera is designed to shoot on a standard 35mm frame, so that it can be processed and printed at any standard 1-hour lab.
@TheIdiotWithACamera The Diana Mini's counter must be manually reset after each roll. After unloading the camera, remove the roll of film, and with the camera back still off, trip the shutter. This will reset the counter. Then load the camera with a new roll.
@taylororoRAWR Film advance problems are usually due to not resetting the film counter between rolls. After unloading the camera, remove the exposed roll, then trip the shutter to reset the film counter. Then install and load a fresh roll of film.
Yes. If you shot half frame be sure to let them know.
If you shot square neg, tell the tech or write in the special instructions that the film is square negs centered on the 35mm frame and that you want your prints or scans to be centered.
@merennna If the film keeps getting stuck, it may be that the film counter needs to be reset. The Diana Mini's counter must be manually reset after each roll. After unloading the camera, remove the roll of film, and with the camera back still off, trip the shutter. This will reset the counter. Then load the camera with a new roll.
this camera ate my film twice. Really make sure it is on the top sockets or it will rip your film. this time i took a blank exposure which i thought was dumb and there is a button on the bottom of the case i pressed in twice. so far it sounds like its working.
@andersvanaller No, you must shoot the whole roll of film, then take it to a lab to be processed, printed or scanned.
@thatsbliss Film is advanced manually, but the film counter will adjust itself to half-frame when the camera is switched to half frame.
When you can't turn the winder knob anymore and the counter indicates you are around the number of frames for the roll.
You must manually reset the counter when you reload by tipping the shutter with the camera back open.
Yes. Your options are to buy the Diana+ flash from Lomography, or the hot-shoe adapter and mount your own flash.
There's is a word for people like you Kai
Legend :)
thank you very much.
@GlamGlitters21 Hi Alice. When loading the film, I use light pressure from my index finger on the sprocket edge of the film towards the bottom part of the camera. the light pressure helps the sprockets grab the teeth of the takeup spool.
@sikki72 ISO 64 may be a little too slow, except in the brightest sunlight. ISO 100 is passable in bright sunlight, but maybe you will want to use the cloudy aperture setting.
@bucketofpopcorn The film counter must be reset by tripping the shutter with the camera back off, and before you drop in a new roll of film. Bending the tip of the film helps the take up spool grab the film leader. you can also try holding your finger lightly on the bottom line of sprockets as you wind the film onto the take-up spool. The very light pressure will keep the film sprocket holes engaged in the film counter sprocket.
Yes, it is okay to leave the cap off, as long as you don't keep your camera in a bag with pointy stuff. I keep my lens caps, but don't usually carry them around with the cap on for the very same reason!
@beavisnnbutthead Unloading the Diana Mini can be done in light because you rewind the film back into the cassette.
I like the full sized camera better, but if you plan on shooting 35mm film, which would be best if you are a beginner with film, then get the mini.
Hey Kai, I have a question. I loaded the film as you did in the video, however when I get to the step of winding the knob until it stops - my knob doesn't stop, it can keep going...It still has an "E" the exposure counter. Did I miss a step? Should I take the film out and try again or will that ruin the film? Thank you so much!!!
@dancinsteph sorry about my late response. I missed several questions here. The sprockets stop after the film is advanced. They should release and advance again after the shutter is tripped. If the film won't advance after the shutter is tripped, you are either at the end of the roll or perhaps the camera is defective.
@hvbyco No, the film cassette and camera are designed so that the camera can be loaded in daylight. Avoid direct sunlight when loading the camera.
Vbskull, I sometimes have that problem. It usually means I forgot to trip the shutter before loading the film. Unload the film from the take-up spool, trip the shutter and try reloading from there.
It can do that if you have a 24 or 36 exposure roll in the camera and the slide switch on the back is set to the left (24x17), which is the half-frame mode. If this is the case, it will go all the way up to 48 on a 24exp. roll or 72 on a 36exp roll.
@sunshineloveshappy Even though it only has the 1 aperture, I think the Holga 135BC is a good camera for a beginner. It's operation is a little easier than the Mini. For indoors or at night, you will need to use a flash unit, or put the camera on a tripod and use a cable release and the B shutter setting.
It sounds like you figured it out. I think the film wasn't being picked up by the take-up spool and the winder knob would keep turning, since the film counter sprocket wasn't turning.
My Mini does the same thing. I get the right number of exposures out of the roll, so I don't worry about it.
@lovesxmcr 35mm film can be processed at any 1-hour lab, so it is much easier to get processed than 120 film.
@kymlam The little square window is the film counter. Before loading the camera , this counter must be reset by opening the camera back and tripping the shutter release. When advancing the film, you should see a progression of numbers. I don't recall seeing the E on the left and right in the window. Keep shooting and advancing the film. If it proceeds normally, all is well.
Yes, if you use half frame mode, the camera will automatically advance the film a half frame and the counter will go up to 48 (24exp roll) or 72 (36exp roll).
It's not a good idea to mix 24x24 photos with your 24x17 half frame images. The lab won't know how to cut the negs and may not be able to print or scan your photos either.
when will we see these as a video podcast on iTunes?
or maybe an audio podcast talking lomo, diana and everything photography...
@kahloholic part 1 Go ahead and rewind. Mixed frames are not a good idea. The problem is that if you've shot an odd number of half frames, the automated lab print machine will start printing the square frames in the wrong place, with the edge of the frame in the middle, essentially cutting the image in half. The lab normally prints the half frames 2-up on a 4x6, but you need to explain to the lab that you have a mix of half frame and full frame.
@kymlam I think the "E" you see on the right is actually the number "3". At first, I thought the same as you, but if you continue shooting you'll soon see a "5" :)
if the counter is not moving, there are a couple of possible causes. 1. The shutter wasn't tripped with the camera back off and no film loaded to reset the film counter. 2. The film is not engaging the sprocket gear that runs the film counter. In either case, try unloading the camera and reloading, making sure to trip the shutter with the camera back off and no film in the camera.
hi kai what is difference in price getting photos to a cd or to printed
@lainholic It may be getting stuck if you forget to reset the film counter after unloading the previous roll of film. With the exposed roll of film removed, and before you drop in the next roll of film, trip the shutter to reset the film counter.
@kahloholic part 2 The Mini full frames are square, and should be printed centered on the 4x6. Most labs will print 4x6 as their standard print size. I don't think there are many that will cut them down to square for you. Ask them if they can help you out with this roll, but they may not understand or may be unwilling to spend the extra time and effort to print them all correctly.
@kikinatorrrr When this happens, it is uusually because the film counter has not been reset between rolls of film.. If I've just losded the roll, I will unload the film by carefully rewinding the roll, but not all the way, so the film leader is still sticking out. Then I will open the camera remove the roll of film. Then I reset the film counter by tripping the shutter with the back off. Then I reload the roll of film.
what film speed do you recommend for shooting in bright sunlight? Do pictures come out better with 100 or 400 iso?
@BARKAYAK Diana Mini shoots both square 24x24 and half frame (17x24). The Golden Half only shoots half frame. Not sure which is better. Go to Flickr and take a close look at the groups devoted to these cameras and see if you can tell the diff.
Multiple exposures, yes, panoramic exposures, not really. Not at all in square format mode, but you can probably get something going using the half-frame mode. It won't have the overlapping effect of the Diana+ panorama mode. I'm still testing the camera, but so far, I like it!
@katexkandykane This is a film camera, so you won't know if your photos come out until your get your film processed. If you are new to film photography, you should seriously consider getting a 35mm lo-fi camera, rather than the more difficult to learn with DIana F+ in the Deluxe Package. The package does come with a 35mm film adapter back, but this is still more trouble to use than a dedicated 35mm film camera. I suggest you look at the straight 35mm lo-fi camera options like the Holga 135.
The best way to get the photos digitized is to have the lab processing your film put the images on a CD. Most labs will offer this service for a few dollars. If your laptop doesn't have a CD drive, see if they will download to a flash thumb drive (if you supply the drive).
Rebecca clover, it sound like the film counter still needs to be reset. Try unloading the camera, then reloading, making sure to trip the shutter to reset the film counter with the camera back off and no film in the camera. Try that and then reload the camera.
Thanks your viedo. I just opened my camera last night! it's very helpful to a freshman. :)
Hi Kai, Thanks for your video. I'm still having problems. The sprocket on the take-up spool is fine. That's working. However, the teeth on the spool under the view finder aren't rotating??? Any tips? Fingers crossed!
Michael Sinclair I have the same problem. should it be turning? like most slr's and rangefinders
@jg112393 The difference is the film. It may not seem like much, but 120 film gives an excellent image, but costs more per roll, per frame, and is harder to find a lab to get processed. Look around your area, and see if you can locate a local lab that can handle 120 film before you get a 120 film camera.
ahhhh i did it, i finally did it after rewatching this loads of times, aha :) thanks
@paytonlovesyou11 The viewfinder isn't wysiwig, it's just a window over the lens, so no, the lens won't show up in your photos. You are correct, it's just a guide.
Sorry girlrita, I missed your follow up questions!
1. The film counter is pretty squirrely on the Mini. I always have a hard time figuring out exactly how many frames are left, but you can usually see enough of the numbers on the counter to get a general idea.
2. Unless you are best friends with the lab tech, I don't recommend switching formats mid-roll. It will give the tech a headache trying to print your roll, with the mix of half and full frame images
@haha2204 I'll consider it. I'll have to see how much work it would be to add the subtitles.
the mini looks fun. ever use a vintage diana the prints come out way different than the lomography remakes. the lens has a really nice softness and light vignette rather than hard black vignettes and sharp centers with edge blur.
......I have a HUGE question @kaituba , do i need to use the flash with the colored gel filters inorder to achieve a colored look during day time?? what setting should I put the camera in when i use the flash and colored gel during daytime and night time? i need tips! your videos are awesome btw! pls. reply back if you can. thankss
@TVMeusPensamentos you need to do this in order to reset the counter.
@kattoo13 If the mechanism locks when winding to frame one, tripping the shutter will release the winding mechanism. If it's getting stuck between frames during a roll, then you might have a defective camera. Contact Lomography for help. If broken, they will get you a replacement, if the camera is still under warranty.
is it like a polaroid camera where the picture comes out instantly? :)
@ant1939 Any 35mm film can be used in any 35mm slr camera. Lomography film has no special properties and won't give your photos the "Lomo" look if used in a slr. The lo-fi lens is what imparts most of the lo-fi look to the images.
Can you do panoramic/multiple exposures on this camera. To me this camera looks like a medium format Diana but does not have the same features. The only reason I might go to this is because people around me do not print medium format film. Let me know what you think.
@TheKarolinaG There is no built in meter or auto-exposure control, so there is no ISO setting.
@jjayeLLL The switching mechanism isn't very robust. My camera is stuck in full frame mode, but I don't mind. If your camera is new, contact Lomography for a replacement.
@AAproductions1994 It sounds like a misloaded roll of film. Did you reset the film counter by snapping the shutter with the camera back off before you loaded the film? Forgetting to do this can sometimes cause the winder mechanism to malfunction.
Try this. Push the rewind button on the bottom of the camera, then carefully and slooowly rewind the film. As soon as you hear a little snap of the film coming off the take up spool, stop, then open the camera back. Reset the shutter. Reload.
@kaituba I just had to insert another roll, I guess the sprackets weren't connected correctly. Well, thank you! The video helped a lot too thanks!
@kattoo13 Before loading a new roll of film, be sure to reset the film counter.With no film in the camera, and the back off, trip the shutter. To help guide the film onto the takeup spool, I use my index finger to apply very light pressure on the take up spool on the bottom. This helps guide the film on the the spool, and keeps it from pulling off the upper teeth.
@kaituba I've tried to actually rewind it, I held the rewind button and turned it as well, but didn't sound the same as the time when I previously took out my last roll of film. As I took the back off, The film was still attached, still a little long too. Should I try another roll?
@AAproductions1994 We're you mid-roll when it got stuck? It is possible you were at the end of the roll, and it wasn't stuck, it was just at the end.
Reset the counter. Try another roll.
Hi I got my Diana Mini, and your videos were so helpful, Thanks!
Just one question I got the Lomography B&W Orca 100 ISO 110 Film, and I have no idea how to load it in the camera, can you please please please make a video on it, Thanks
@cizie100 You can pick out any film, as long as it is 35mm film. I always use T-Max 400 color film. You can pick it up at CVS for about 5 dollars.
Oops..one more question!! I have noticed when I try and wind the film (following your steps), it can sometimes get stuck..Is there a trick to getting the winding mechanism to move, without putting stress on it? Thank you so much!!
Is this camera good for beginners ? Good for day and night ? Indoors ? Was looking at the Holga 135Bc but there's only one aperture setting, so it isn't really good right ? Thanks.
hi kai! when i look through the view finder of my mini diana, I can see the lens.. I know thats how its supposed to be but I was wondering if the lens is going to show up in my picures? or is the viewfinder just a guide to show you approximatley what your picture will look like. please help me! thank you!
@GabieLazareff It's hard to tell what might be wrong, because there are several different things that may be going on. Are the photos square or a tall rectangle? If they are square, but the image is on the left or right of a rectangular print, you are ok. Next time, tell the lab tech you want the images centered. If you are getting tall rectangles, but with spaces between the frames, then the camera is set to half frame, but the film advance is winding a full frame. Continued to Part 2>>>>>
@elleisbeautiful Yes, there are several online retailers that sell the flash separately. Lomography, Amazon, BH PhotoVideo, Freestyle Photo Supply. Sorry, I can't put in direct links in these comments. Google these retailers.
@jakesakook Sorry, I missed this question last month. There is usually a big difference. to CD, $2-3. Prints, $8-12. Best way to do this is get the CD. Pick your images, then get those printed.
Thanks. Super helpful video!
@HongKongBangBang You need a film leader retriever. You can get one from Adorama or BH Photo Video. I also have a video showing how to use one here on youtube: How to use a 35mm Film Leader Retriever.
On my first roll and the counter is stuck at 33. I have mixed half frame and full frame. Should I rewind the film where it is? Or does the counter go up to 72? What should I tell the lab? If I used full frame square, will they print each one on a separate 4x6 photo? Or will the frames be spread out irregularly on the 4x6 prints?
What about half frame, or overlapping? I understand how these shots will line up on the negative, but it's not like a standard 35mm where each frame fits on a print...
Starzncarz, You need to trip the shutter to reset the film counter with the camera back off and no film in the camera. Try that and then load the camera per usual.
thanks for the tutorial kai, really helpful, i just bought my diana mini. ^__^ really excited to use it.. about the frame options (rectangle and square) does it mean you have to stick to one kind of format or you can change it anytime??
and also about the advance wheel what are those little white numbers indicate.. like 3, 6 etc.. does it mean you about the shots youve taken?
hey kai, just wondering.. is there any way to stop the sprockets from ripping my film when i use the advance wheel. sometimes even the advance wheel doesn't budge and it ends up snapping the film.
@cierseruwal If it works on a different camera, then there might be something wrong with the camera. Contact lomography and see if there is something they can suggest to get it working again. If you have purchased the camera recently, you can probably get it replaced.
Hi, I've followed your instructions and they are great. when i take a picture and advanced the film it had an E in the window, is that suppose to be there? :)
I own a holga and an oktomat, I would love to get one of these but it's expensive.
The sprockets at the top are tearing the holes apart when I try to wind. What do I do? I have tried opening it and seeing if what the problem is but it works until I put the cover back on.
Or if you want to do it yourself you can get a epson v500 or v600 for the same price as some point and shoot cameras. It is a lot more fun to have control of the entire process(Shoot, Develop, Scan, Edit, Upload, Print, Enjoy).
okay its my second time loading this camera, and i got a little confused. when you turn the wheel, is the sprocket gear spool supposed to move as well? i find that when i turn it, the top sprockets dont turn WITH the film, the flim just kinda slides over it and then aligns itself, and then over it, and then aligns itself. is that correct?
hey do u use a photo film scanner? or do u develop them somewhere?
havent' found a place only like a place called japan camera would do it . 59cents each print. is that worth it ?
WOW this was really helpful! Thanks so much :)
>>>>Part 2 With no film in the camera, take the back off, and try flipping the half-frame selector back and forth. Some part of the mechanism may have become jammed and may free up with a little movement. If this doesnt' fix the camera, and it is new, it will be under warranty. Contact Lomography and tell them the problem you are having.
hi kai, i've loaded my film and snapped a few pictures. i'm not sure what im supposed to see in the little square below the advance wheel. ive turned the wheel till it stopped and its showing a "reversed E on the left and a E on the right" in the little square, is this right?
hey kai. :3 So my diana mini isn't excepting the film properly. The sprocket gear spool won't rotate with the take-up spool and my film keeps on getting jammed. Is the sprocket gear spool supposed to move when you turn the advance wheel? Or am I just loading the film wrong?