Does anyone have instructions on how to load the film into the Mido film sleeves. I just purchased a used holder and set of sleeves but there are no directions on how to load the film, only how to insert and expose the film printed on the holder. Any help would be appreciated.

-- Jackie Poutasse (jpoutasse@spectrava.com), April 27, 2001

Answers

Jackie,

You may should ask Dan Smith (shooter@brigham.net). He's the expert. Cheers,

-- Geoffrey Chen (DB45TEK@AOL.COM), April 27, 2001.

There were two variants of the original Mido Film Holder, and then there was the Mido II. I suspect very few Mido IIs exist because they were expensive and not available very long. The original Mido is most likely what you have.

The first variant holds the film by the four corners. As I remember, you bent the film and released it so that it slid under the four pieces of plastic that overlay the corners of the film. I found this easy to do, but apparently most people didn't like it. The second variant is loaded just like a regular film holder--there are channels that capture the two long edges of the film. Just pull back the outer envelope and slide the film into the tracks. With either design, the thing to do is practice in the light using scrap film.

-- Michael Briggs (michaelbriggs@earthlink.net), April 28, 2001.

First we need to figure out which version you have (and which version I have, for that matter!) to see if we have the same kind. I have instructions for mine that I can scan or photocopy if you want. Basically you slip two corners in on one end, then arch the film upward and gently guide the other two corners in as the film straightens itself out. Thats a lame explanation but its late I'm tired and going to sleep. Its not hard once you get the hang of it and I could never understand why midos werent more succesful. I love them, with all their imperfections

-- Wayne (wsteffen@skypoint.com), April 28, 2001.

Why not open one in the day light and take a piece of film and try loading it. They can be hard to do in the dark if you have never used them. Also find a way to keep them flat in the field. If you bend them and put a kink in the holder they're no good.

-- RTRitter (rrlg4mat@soveer.net), April 28, 2001.