Kodak No. 2 and No. 2A Folding Autographic Brownie: How to use - Video manual

[@ataraxia5808]

Honestly one of the best demonstrations I’ve seen. You make the instructions very clear, visuals are easy to follow, background isn’t distracting, and, best of all, it’s a complete rundown of its operation! For some reason, it’s hard to find videos that do all of that. I really needed this for my 2-A Autographic, so thank you. I’ll be sure to check back to your channel in the future. :)

[@FilmCameras]

Thank you so much! Stay tuned!

[@SpaceStationJukebox]

Thank you! I just found one at an antique shop and couldn't figure out how to work it. This helped so much!

[@hellohaveagoodday]

Thank you for this! My granddad gave me the camera he got given years ago as I've taken an interest and my mother is now helping me find film for it and is going to teach me how to develop photos!

[@FilmCameras]

This is great! I'm sure you will enjoy the whole thing!

[@amysanderson7323]

I'm so grateful for this video...I recently was given my great grandfathers camera and never thought it would be possible to use it! Now I know I can definitely give it a try! Thank you so much for taking the time to put this together!!!!!

[@grace-kk8rh]

WOW, thanks so much for this demo. I never knew that there was an included Pin on the back. I always thought this was a hinge of some sort. I’m on this camera for more than 20 years.😂 you just made a friend for Life.🥰

[@aleciathomas5703]

THANK YOU!! I work in a museum and we had one of these that had never been closed and was going back into storage finally after being displayed for many years. your video helped me close it - it was VERY stiff!

[@FilmCameras]

Happy to have helped!

[@n24nziks]

Thanks for sharing. I received this and many other cameras handed down from elderly inlaws. I had no clue what to do with it other than keeping it up on a shelf with my collection. Now I will be able to attempt capturing hopefully some amazing things.

[@pedromeza2398]

Thank you, I am in the process of biding on a Kodak 2, because I am still shooting film and use 35mm to 120 adapters for the interesting photography results, so seeing your educational video I will do my best to win. Thank you once again.

[@benman1577]

Bought one of these at a flee market today, the shutter speed and Aperture adjustments work, so maybe mine will! Just need to make sure no light gets in

[@ianwilkinson4602]

Brilliant, thanks. i have just bought a no.2 still awaiting its arrival. Light leaks on the corners of the bellows can be, and invariably are a problem. In semi-darkness remove the back, extend the camera to its full extent. using a small powerful led torch placed carefully inside the bellows move it around gently, carefully inspect from all angles the outside of the bellows for pinprick light leaks which will spoil any film inserted. So they have to be made good, I have used a flexible black spray paint used for fabrics, shake the can well, spray some paint into a pot or the lid, and using a small artists paint brush paint over the area of the light leaks, it dries very quickly so you have to be pretty quick too, once dry, check again with the torch to see if you were successful or you had missed any and repeat as necessary. Don't over do it with the paint as it will remain tacky, just enough to do the job.After completion leave the camera open for the paint to fully cure. Checking for light leaks now and again might be a good idea. This is a suggestion ONLY and it is up to you if you go ahead and take the risk, there aren't many options other than having new bellows made and that could cost far more than the camera is worth. This is purely an experimental idea, I have used the process on four folders, two were very bad and reguired a lot of time and paint, and have remained tacky so beware, not too much paint.The other two a Finax and a Selfix are working just fine. I also used Black nail varnish very sparingly applied on another camera also successful, but I am unsure whether this will remain flexible over time. Good luck take care and don't blame the author if it isn't successful :-)

[@standandeliver8376]

Great tip about the torch. I'd be tempted to try a flexible repair adhesive such as Stormsure (in UK, don't know about other countries). It's messy stuff, but maybe a blob on a fine paintbrush would work.

[@tjh44961]

@@standandeliver8376 You could also use black gaffer's tape or bookbinding tape, which I use for repairing the hinges on sheet film holders. It it generally light-proof.

[@swanyut]

i just today...oct 12 of the crappiest year ever..2020... just acquired the no 2A folding autographic brownie from my inlaws...awesome video...delighted you made it...complete crash course ...thanks

[@williamstidham2163]

EBay

[@CigarManGarth]

Thank you. I am always amazed that someone has made a video answering my exact questions.

[@simonmccreery3295]

Thank you so much! I have just been given this model. It is wonderful as the name of the owner is stull visible in the 'autographing' chamber. My model has the shuter and aperture in front of the lens. At first I thought that it was damaged, but this was a variation. Phew.

[@danielbailey1489]

Wow, this was really helpful. Thanks!

[@mistymisdemeanor7]

Just got mine from a thrift store! So excited! Any suggestions on cleaning?

[@niciwalsh5180]

Fantastic video, thank you so much, have just started with the Kodak No. 2 B model, this has made it even easier to use, much appreciated.

[@russellyoung2852]

Very clear and quite thorough. Kudos!

[@dewidotted6030]

This was super helpful! I just found one of these at a yard sale and was very curious as to how it worked. Thank you for the great content :)

[@FilmCameras]

Thank you!

[@dewidotted6030]

@@FilmCameras no problem!

[@smarleyjoe3569]

Great plain simple easy to follow video THANKS!!

[@telehan6295]

thanks a lot! I had this camera and I successfully load the 120 film after watching the video

[@FilmCameras]

That's great! Enjoy your camera!

[@BrooklynJackBlue]

Just got one of these. In REALLY good condition. The viewfinder is bright, the shutter is smooth and responsive, the case is in phenomenal condition, the bellows are pristine - in short the whole thing works great. ...what I didn't know what how to properly set the damned thing up. I really need to jot some of this stuff down.

[@SeanLamb-I-Am]

And I literally have a Kodak 3-A sitting right next to me as this video comes up in my recommendations.

[@cecilia1171]

I DIDN'T KNOW THAT THING COULD ROTATE!!

[@moronoke]

I have one of these in my hands right now. My father gave it to me. The entire retractable mechanism is very hard and somewhat rusty.

[@titanicclockguy]

I love this thank you so much l just picked up a #2 model b almost for free, no more then 5.dollars $, And I don't believe she was shut for 90+ years before she landed in my hands,,but with a little extra vigin olive oil l have her closed and I believe l have her in working order plus l have some film here that l think can work in with her but I'm unfamiliar with modifying her but this is why I'm watching these videos

[@TheBeastofPixels]

I have a No.2 A, but I swear it says “use Autographic film NO A-120” on it. So does it use 120 film or 116? Currently It has been unable to take photos with 120 film.

[@FilmCameras]

No.2A uses 116 film which is not available any more. You can find 116 to 120 film adapters if you search on line shops and you'll be able to use 120 film.

[@icc7966]

Very helpful!

[@armanshaghi]

This is an excellent video. Thank you

[@UndergroundLookingUp]

The bellows for mine are stuck and wont come out, even when pulling the little silver lever.... Its in great condition otherwise, any tips?

[@lonely.tea.drinker]

I recently found a 2A camera, but I'm really struggling to get the camera properly open- the lever on the front moves the camera about an inch, but then it's like something is stuck or keeping it locked in place and I can't pull it open anymore. Does this mean the camera is just broken? Is there a different way I could get it open, or check if it's broken? Also, will the 2A work with 120 film? My local shop doesn't have 116 available. Thanks so much for the video!

[@dflf]

Check the bellows for light leaks before you shoot any film

[@MangoOnQuest]

i bought it at new york yesterday and i discovered new things like the stylus but i have a question where did you get the film?

[@Wizard_635]

Thank you, very nice video!

[@janasbilderbuch]

Thank you for the video!! I just got this camera from ma grandmother and i wanna give it shot :) i was wondering if it is problem when i don’t have the small ,,window“ at the back anymore, where you can see the film. Is there coming light to the film this way or is this no problem? Sorry, my english is not that good, i hope you understand what i wanted to say :)

[@FilmCameras]

Glad you found this video useful! Yes, the window will cause you problems and light will destroy your images. What you have to do is to cover the window with thick black paper or tape, so that no light passes. Because you won't be able to see the numbers, you should calculate 4 full 360 degrees turns of the knob so as to proceed to the next frame. Don't forget when you first put the film inside, to turn the knob another 4 full times to advance the film to the first frame.

[@janasbilderbuch]

Film Cameras thank you for answering so quickly!!! 😊

[@Farrady42]

@@FilmCameras would it be advisable to try and replace the window with a similar one from another camera? or would it be to risky/not worth the effort? I am in a similar situation and am not sure I trust myself to be precise enough with the turns.

[@FilmCameras]

@@Farrady42 If you have one that fits good, you can give it a try. Make sure there is no light coming through the edge around. You can also have dark tape on top, which you will remove only when advancing the film. In any case, you should try with film to be certain.

[@Farrady42]

@@FilmCameras thank you!

[@monmioamio]

subscribed ✌🏻

[@Zane-It]

mine is missing a few parts and the cord shutter switch is broken.

[@LouisASousa]

Hi thank you for the great video. What are the frame numbers to stop at to avoid overlapping images?

[@FilmCameras]

The No.2 uses 120 film which has the frame numbers written on its back. So you can see them in the red window on the back of the camera. (see 6:16) You advance one number each time you take a photo: 1,2,3... No need to skip numbers or go in between them.

[@Curtjmac]

Hey there, thank you for this video, it was extremely helpful. I have this camera in the No. 2C model from 1915 or 1916 that belonged to my great grandfather. It is in perfect condition and everything appears to work. I turned the spool until I saw 2 dots through that plastic piece on the back, I believe this represents picture 2? The film looks like the original film. The two questions I have are, would those two dots represent the film being in place for the second picture? And how would I remove the film properly and be able to see the pictures taken? I don't know anything about film so any help would be appreciated. Thank you

[@FilmCameras]

Hi. First of all do not open the back of the camera because the light will destroy the images on the film. Two dots usually are notifying you to carefully turn the spool further to the next frame. The frames usually are marked by numbers and not dots. Now continue turning the spool until you see the film paper moving past the red window. That means that the film is totally rolled back to its place. Normally you will be able then to open the camera and remove the spool like the end of the video here. But to make it sure, better do this in total darkness and put the removed film in a lightight case. You should take it to a photography shop that develops film and give it to them for processing and see if any photos are in there. The 2C model uses 130 film which is now obsolete, so you need to tell this to the shop because not everyone can develop it. In any case keep in mind that any exposure of the film to light will destroy any images there are, if there are any.

[@Curtjmac]

@@FilmCameras So I continued turning the spool and can now see the number 5. When my dad first brought this in to me he opened the back, which I would not have done. By opening the back would he have destroyed every previous images on it?

[@FilmCameras]

@@Curtjmac Can't tell for sure. Maybe the first photos were saved. Also maybe the last person who used it never actually took photos with this film, who knows? Once you get it developed you will see if there are any photos or not. Even if there are photos, the condition might not be good because of the film's age. Give it a try developing it and you can share your results here!

[@Curtjmac]

@@FilmCameras I'll definitely give it a shot. When I do I'll be sure to update you if there was anything, or even if there was nothing at all. Appreciate your help!

[@raydenkreps2014]

Do I have to load it in a dark room and unload it in a dark room. I know that it's shown loading and uploading in light but is that just for demonstration purposes or can I actually do that

[@FilmCameras]

You don't need to load it and unload it in a dark room. This is why the 120 film has the thick paper layer on top of it. Just to be sure don't load-unload on direct sunlight. Finally, when you unload make sure that the film is fully rolled back.

[@raydenkreps2014]

@@FilmCameras thanks, I knew that I could load my 8mm brownie in the light and wanted to make sure I could do the same with this one, with different film of course.

[@pastorderrick3744]

Where do you find the film for this camera?

[@ViggoTellefsenWivestad]

I have the 2A that I got from my grandfather, but I am unable to slide the lens out on the track past the hinge joint. It seems like it is getting stuck in something. Has anyone experienced something similar?

[@FilmCameras]

In order to get the lens slide past the bed hinge you should make sure the bed has opened completely until you hear the "click" (see 2:53 in this video). Also try pulling from the side (not from the pulling knob) by pressing and releasing the small focusing lever ( 3:04 ). Also try lubricating the tracks a bit. Finally make sure that the viewfinder doesn't get stuck anywhere and have a look inside from the opened back to see if there is anything stuck or wrong.

[@ViggoTellefsenWivestad]

@@FilmCameras Thanks for the reply! The solution was lubricating the tracks and then pull it out while the bed was still a little closed. Maybe the tracks are a little bent or something, since I was unable to get it out if I open the bed completely until it clicks.

[@ianwilkinson4602]

@@FilmCameras Yes, from memory the viewfinder has to be in the vertical position when closing the camera.

[@kirquincho]

Excelent

[@cecilia1171]

THIOS IS ALL I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR thanks!!! out of curiosity, where did you get the info? is there a book i could check for using this camera??

[@FilmCameras]

You can find the original manuals on the internet easily, on many websites.

[@cecilia1171]

@@FilmCameras thanks

[@battlepup1277]

I recently discovered one today and the back latch to unlock it is missing. Does anyone know how to fix it?

[@massimilianosabatini2190]

Thanks!! I have this camera and your instructions are perfect for me! ☺️👏🏻

[@CrystalScott1]

Brilliant

[@samni9068]

I’ve been looking for a vintage 120 b&w film camera with a timed shutter for ages. Any ideas?

[@Glauco1933]

Great thank you

[@yaragrimaldi4307]

Thanks a lot for the best video ever!!! I have a question, i have one of this cameras but the red window is broken :( does it affects the pictures?? Do you think if i replace it with some other same material it would work?? Thank you again😊📸

[@FilmCameras]

Hi! If you have a broken red window you will definitely have light leaks ruining your photos. You can try using a piece of thick, dark red plastic (you can try cutting a piece from plastic document folders for example). Just make sure it is taped all around so that no light enters directly inside. Then, the only thing you can do is test with a film and see if it has light leaks. But even if you have a red window you must never point that side directly to light (black and white films of that time were not sensitive to red color, but modern ones are). But generally you will be ok with a dark red plastic on. Another way is to completely cover the hole with dark tape and try to remember how many turns you give to the winding key to move to the next frame. But since this is not very precise, you might see that some frames overlap at their edges.

[@Sennmut]

I have one. Good pix.

[@Emily.Constance]

Hello, I have a N. 1A and a N. 2A I know both uses 116 film. Am I okay to put 120 film in the camera as I could not find 116. Any additional info would be super helpful

[@FilmCameras]

Hi. 116 film is not produced any more. You can find 116 to 120 film adapters if you search online shops and you'll be able to use 120 film.

[@Smithingtonsmithe]

Any recommendations on where I can get/what brand/type of 120mm film I can buy? I have this exact camera at home and want to see if it still works!

[@FilmCameras]

I would suggest the Ilford HP5 Plus Black and White film. It is relatively cheap than others and of good quality if you want to try this camera. You can easily find it on photography stores or online shops.

[@laurenwatkins8412]

you can get colour portra but its incredibly more expensive

[@cheriewan2917]

I just thrifted one of these! But it doesn't have the red window. Will that expose the film?

[@FilmCameras]

Hi! If you have a broken red window you will definitely have light leaks ruining your photos. You can try using a piece of thick, dark red plastic (you can try cutting a piece from plastic document folders for example). Just make sure it is taped all around so that no light enters directly inside. Then, the only thing you can do is test with a film and see if it has light leaks. But even if you have a red window you must never point that side directly to light (black and white films of that time were not sensitive to red color, but modern ones are). But generally you will be ok with a dark red plastic on. Another way is to completely cover the hole with dark tape and try to remember how many turns you give to the winding key to move to the next frame. But since this is not very precise, you might see that some frames overlap at their edges.

[@lapistheMewios420]

Do you know where tou can get the a116 film please sorry?! Also perfect vid!

[@FilmCameras]

116 film is not available any more. You can find 116 to 120 film adapters if you search on line shops and you'll be able to use 120 film instead.

[@lapistheMewios420]

@@FilmCameras thanks!

[@RachelDegen]

I have the C model and need to find replacement bellows. Do you know what type or measurement I should be looking for? Thanks!!

[@FilmCameras]

The bellows have 4 sides all around that form a rectangular. You should measure the height and width of the part of the bellows that is attached to the camera body (the largest side) and the height and width of the part that is attached to the lens (the smallest side). Then you will need to count how many pleats there are, and finally, how far the bellows extend. It is quite tricky to make them on your own, but you can find videos on KZbin. But by having those measurements, there are online stores (like on ebay) that sell custom made bellows.

[@marlowecampbell5814]

I don’t have the empty spool. Is this easy to find at shops?

[@FilmCameras]

The empty spool is the same as the spool that holds the 120 film. If you go to a photography shop that develops film they will have spare ones, and sometimes give them for free, as they usually throw them away. You can always find one online or you can spoil a 120 film to get the spool. (If you roll the 120 film out from its spool in total darkness and put it in a light tight place, then you can later use it by rolling it back on a spool).

[@ianscottcastillo7709]

I have the same camera but the red plastic piece covering up the film number on the back is missing, can I just put tape over it or find similar colored plastic HELP!

[@FilmCameras]

You can try using a piece of thick, dark red plastic (you can try cutting a piece from plastic document folders for example). Just make sure it is taped all around so that no light enters directly inside. Then, the only thing you can do is test a film and see if it has light leaks. Another way is to completely cover the hole with dark tape and try to remember how many turns you give to the winding knob, to advance to the first frame and then from each frame to the next. But since this is not very precise you might see that some frames overlap at their edges. In both cases, do not point that side directly to sunlight.

[@ianscottcastillo7709]

@@FilmCameras thank you so much you’re channel is so informative and great!

[@mdb27]

Hello! I've been given a model and I'd like to try b&w photography. However, it's a first for me in analog cameras and I have a couple of doubts. I'm guessing I have a No.2, but how can I be sure? Could anyone provide a shopping link for an example of the film that I should buy for this camera? Thank you much for the video, if it wasn't for my complete lack of knowledge in this area I'd be taking photos by now with such a great tutorial!

[@FilmCameras]

Hi! To identify the camera type, look for the plate with the name. It should say if it is a No2 or 2A (or if it is a different model). If it is indeed a No.2 like the one in the video, you should use 120 film. I would suggest Ilford HP5 Plus 120 black and white film which is cheap and has a very good quality. Furthermore, it is very easy to find. Just do some search on line or visit a photography shop in your area.

[@williamstidham2163]

Amazon sales this fime

[@johnathonwilliams5038]

I have a camera similar to this and was just wondering if anyone knows how to clean the viewfinder since mine is very foggy. Thanks

[@FilmCameras]

There are different types of viewfinder glass. This one in the video has frosted glass which seems foggy but in bright light can produce a a nice reflection. There are others which have plain rounded glass. Both can get very foggy from time. Usually the problem is from the inside and you need to disassemble the viewfinder. It is not difficult but if you are not certain, better avoid doing it yourself. You can clean the glass with cotton buds using a drop of isopropyl alcohol or glass cleaning liquid and glasses microfiber cleaning cloths.

[@johnathonwilliams5038]

@@FilmCameras Thanks for the help

[@MrHans818]

I have one of these in my camera collection that was my wife's father.

[@titanicclockguy]

I love this thank you so much l justpick up a #2 model b almost for free, no more then 5.00 $,l And I don't believe it was shut for 90+ years before it landed in my hands,,but with a little extra vigin olive oil l have her closed and I believe l have her in working order plus l have some film here that l think can work in her

[@tastytree]

I have a similar camera, but I cant find where to open the place that holds the film (I also dont know where it says the model)

[@FilmCameras]

Usually the model of the camera is written on the front, below the lens or on the lens bed. Sometimes it is stamped on the leather of the back or the sides of the camera's body. There are a few ways to open a folding camera and depends on the model. Have a look here on my website for samples of folding cameras and how to open them: filmcameras.dimitsal.com/category/folding/

[@tastytree]

@@FilmCameras it says "kodak anastigmat F-63 127mm" around the lens, and there is no obvious wat to open the camera's film holder (no obvious buttons, hinges or gaps)

[@FilmCameras]

There should probably be a knob or button or pin to lift or push, below the leather handle on the side of the camera. Otherwise it might be like the camera in this video.

[@tastytree]

@@FilmCameras there is a handle at the top to open the camera, but it doesent give me access to the film, there are 2 exposed screws and 2 holes that might be missing a piece that could access the film.

[@FilmCameras]

I can't be sure for this without actually looking at it. If you want you can email me photos and a few more details at [e-mail] and I'll see if I can help you with your question.

[@rodrigoveglio4029]

What do you mean with “the last 8th photo”?

[@FilmCameras]

These cameras can take up to 8 photos on a 120 film. They are medium format which means that although you take fewer photos (than the 35mm film), the photos are larger and of greater quality.

[@wcrofford]

Do you recommend a particular ASA?

[@FilmCameras]

These cameras were made long ago, when film above 400 ASA didn't exist. So you better choose a film of up to 400 ASA max, otherwise your photos might turn out overexposed. Especially if you are planning to use color film. Generally, something like 100 or 200 ASA would be fine.

[@wcrofford]

Thanks, that's what I figured@@FilmCameras

[@stefoboss998]

Is there a way to use 35mm film?

[@FilmCameras]

There are some 35mm to 120 film adapters that you can find (usually from online shops). Never actually used one, but you might get interesting results.

[@stefoboss998]

@@FilmCameras thank you

[@johnseyesgeorgesbiscuit8522]

Hey can I use colour film on this or is it black and white limited

[@FilmCameras]

Yes, you can use both colour and black and white films.

[@johnseyesgeorgesbiscuit8522]

@@FilmCameras ahh I was just worried that the red hole on the back could expose the film slightly I just ordered one on eBay and also portra 160 to get into 120 from a while in 35mm

[@FilmCameras]

In order to be certain to avoid potential light-leaks, you can cover the red window with dark tape and reveal it only when advancing the film. Never point it directly to sunlight.

[@johnseyesgeorgesbiscuit8522]

@@FilmCameras ahh oke I'll do that

[@johnseyesgeorgesbiscuit8522]

Masking tape

[@grant.siebert7187]

What film dose no.3 use?

[@FilmCameras]

Νο 3 uses 122 film, not produced any more.

[@intentchef9968]

Does anyone know if I can use 120 film for the No.2A?

[@FilmCameras]

Yes you can, but since 2A used 116 film, which had a larger spool, you will need a 116 to 120 spool adapter to fit 120 in your 2A. Try searching this online and you will find a few solutions to this.

[@intentchef9968]

Film Cameras thank you so much!! 🙏

[@hamoudaammar5966]

I have one for sale

[@BeeBeau]

I got one b