Medium format film can produce detailed negatives and a distinctive look, but choosing a roll involves more than picking a color or black-and-white stock. First, check which format your camera accepts; then consider how you plan to shoot and where you will develop the film. A few straightforward handling and storage habits can also protect your investment. This guide covers the common sizes, practical care, and film choices for different kinds of photography.
Know Your Film Format
Most medium format cameras use 120 roll film. The film is wound onto a spool and backed by paper, and the camera advances it from one frame to the next. Frame count varies by camera and image size: a camera making larger 6×7 frames fits fewer exposures on a roll than one making 6×4.5 frames. Check your camera manual or the markings inside the film back before buying.
Some cameras accept 220 film, which has the same width as 120 but more film and less paper backing. It is less commonly available, and many cameras cannot use it because their pressure plates or frame counters are designed for 120. Do not assume the two types are interchangeable. Also distinguish roll film from sheet film: large-format cameras may use individual sheets, while most medium format cameras take rolls.
Handle Film With Care
Load film in subdued light, following the camera’s instructions. Keep the roll in its wrapper until you are ready, and avoid touching the film surface. Align the paper leader with the camera’s guides, wind until the start mark reaches the indicator, and close the back securely. If the camera has a dark slide, follow its instructions before removing or inserting the film back.
After the last exposure, wind the roll fully onto its take-up spool before opening the camera. Secure the paper tail so the film stays tightly wound, then place the roll in its protective container. Label it with the film stock, exposure notes, and date if useful. If you suspect a loading mistake or accidental back opening, keep the roll and tell your lab what happened; some frames may still be recoverable.
Store Film and Plan Processing
Keep unexposed film sealed in its original packaging, away from heat, direct sun, and damp conditions. For longer storage, refrigeration can slow aging, but let the sealed film reach room temperature before opening it. This helps prevent condensation from forming on cold film. Follow the manufacturer’s storage guidance, and avoid leaving film in a hot car or near a heater.
Protect exposed rolls from heat and moisture, and get them processed in a reasonable time. Tell the lab what type of film you used and whether you pushed or pulled it during shooting, since that can affect processing instructions. Before shooting an unfamiliar stock or camera, confirm that a nearby lab can process it. Color negative, slide, and black-and-white films may require different processes, and not every lab handles every type.
Choose Film for the Scene
For portraits, color negative film is a flexible choice when you want forgiving exposure and natural-looking skin tones. Black-and-white film suits portraits when you want to emphasize light, texture, and expression without color. Consider the lighting and the mood you want, then check the stock’s stated speed and color characteristics rather than relying on a label such as “portrait film” alone.
For landscapes, choose a film speed that fits your light and whether you will use a tripod. Slide film can deliver vivid color and strong contrast, but it generally gives less room for exposure errors than color negative film. Black-and-white stock can bring out shapes and tonal separation. For events or changing conditions, a faster film can help you use quicker shutter speeds; for controlled scenes in bright light, a slower film may suit your needs. Test a roll before an important shoot.
Start by confirming your camera’s film format, then choose a stock that fits your subject, lighting, and preferred look. Handle rolls carefully, store them away from heat and moisture, and check processing requirements before you shoot. If you need help matching film to a camera or project, Northlight Camera in St. John’s can help you consider your options.