Camera Film: 35mm, 120 and Instant

Which film format your camera takes

Film comes in formats that are not interchangeable. 35mm film, also called 135, comes in cartridges of 24 or 36 exposures and fits most compact and SLR film cameras. Medium-format 120 roll film is wider and gives 8 to 16 frames depending on the frame size, which is why a 6x6 camera gives 12. Instant film is a separate world: a Fujifilm Instax Mini pack fits only cameras built for that size, and mini, square and wide cartridges are not interchangeable.

Speed, color or black and white, and what follows the shot

Film speed is printed as ISO. ISO 100 to 200 suits bright daylight and fine grain, ISO 400 handles most conditions, and 800 or more helps indoors at the cost of visible grain. Black-and-white negative film is the easiest to develop at home with basic chemistry, while color negative film needs a lab or a stricter home process. Check the expiry date, because old film loses speed and shifts color. A few listings are digital network cameras rather than film, so read the title carefully.

Questions about Camera Film: 35mm, 120 and Instant

Does any instant film fit any instant camera?

No. Instant film comes in separate sizes and systems, such as mini, square and wide, and each camera is built for one. Read the film name in the camera manual and match it exactly before picking a pack.

What does ISO 400 mean on a roll?

It is the film's sensitivity to light. ISO 400 is a flexible all-rounder for sun and shade, ISO 100 gives finer grain in bright light, and ISO 800 or higher helps indoors. Set your camera's meter to match the roll.

How many photos does a roll give?

A 35mm cartridge usually holds 24 or 36 exposures. A 120 roll gives 15 or 16 frames at 6x4.5 centimetres, depending on the camera, 12 at 6x6, 10 at 6x7 and 8 at 6x9. Instant packs state their count on the box, commonly 8 or 10 prints per cartridge.