I have two 70mm bulk film backs (one Linhof: no. 1421062 and one Singer Graphlex) for 4x5 and need bulk 70mm film. What film types does Linhof recommend to users, who sells it and how can I get the film? Can 220 film be used in these backs? It appears that the Linhof Cine Rollex uses perforated 70mm film and the Singer Graphlex has flat rollers and does not appear to need perforated 70mm film. I live in remote rural Australia over 600km from the nearest capital city and would like to purchase by mail order. Please send information and suggestions via email ASAP. Any suggestions as to using these backs, loading the film, etc. would also be appreciated.

Regards Errol Schmidt

-- Errol Schmidt (errolws@madec.edu.au), September 29, 1999

Answers

220 film will not work. 70mm bulk films available include Kodak Vericolor, Tri-X and alot of aero films (including high speed infrared); Ilford sells HP5+ and FP4+, and I believe Agfa sells at least one. B&H stocks Vericolor and Tri-X and will order any of the other Kodak films (I got a roll of high speed Infrared from them); they ship internationally

-- John Lehman (ffjal@uaf.edu), September 30, 1999.

Currently 70mm photographic film is available only from Kodak and Konica in B&W, C-41 Color Negative, and E-6 slide film. It is special order from B&H Photo for a little over $100.00 for a 100' long roll. Cinematic 70mm film is available, but to get a manageable length your have to go to one of the companies that sells reel ends. With 70mm film processing is the principal problem. Only professional, custom labs have the equipment to process it. If you want to process it yourself, you need to find a used Kinderman 70mm daylight tank, or a used JOBO reel and tank. Otherwise you will need to dip and dunk in deep trays in the dark. The 70mm bulk film loaders are also available only used. NASA still uses Hasselblads with 70mm film backs as their standard camera for manned space filght.

-- Larry A. Harrison (photography4art@hotmail.com), April 14, 2002.