Light leak
Encyclopedia
A light leak is a hole or gap in the body of a camera where light is able to "leak" into the normally light-tight chamber, exposing
the film or sensor with extra light. This light is diffuse, although parts within the camera may cast shadows or reflect it in a particular way. For most purposes this is considered a problem. Within the lomography
movement it is seen as a positive effect, giving photos character.
One frequent source of light leaks in 35 mm
cameras is around the film door due to degrading foam. Replacing the foam is a simple matter. Medium format system camera
s or large format cameras may have leaks between their various interchangeable parts or in old leather bellows
. Electrical tape
is often used in these cases.
Exposure (photography)
In photography, exposure is the total amount of light allowed to fall on the photographic medium during the process of taking a photograph. Exposure is measured in lux seconds, and can be computed from exposure value and scene luminance over a specified area.In photographic jargon, an exposure...
the film or sensor with extra light. This light is diffuse, although parts within the camera may cast shadows or reflect it in a particular way. For most purposes this is considered a problem. Within the lomography
Lomography
Lomography is the commercial trademark of Lomographische AG, Austria for products and services catering to the Global Modern art community of Lomographic photography. The name is inspired by the former state-run optics manufacturer LOMO PLC of Saint Petersburg, Russia...
movement it is seen as a positive effect, giving photos character.
One frequent source of light leaks in 35 mm
135 film
The term 135 was introduced by Kodak in 1934 as a designation for cartridge film wide, specifically for still photography. It quickly grew in popularity, surpassing 120 film by the late 1960s to become the most popular photographic film format...
cameras is around the film door due to degrading foam. Replacing the foam is a simple matter. Medium format system camera
System camera
A system camera is a camera with interchangeable components that constitutes the core of a system. Early representatives include Leica I Schraubgewinde , Exakta and the Nikon F...
s or large format cameras may have leaks between their various interchangeable parts or in old leather bellows
Bellows
A bellows is a device for delivering pressurized air in a controlled quantity to a controlled location.Basically, a bellows is a deformable container which has an outlet nozzle. When the volume of the bellows is decreased, the air escapes through the outlet...
. Electrical tape
Electrical tape
Electrical tape is a type of pressure-sensitive tape used to insulate electrical wires and other material that conduct electricity. It can be made of many plastics, but vinyl is most popular, as it stretches well and gives an effective and long lasting insulation...
is often used in these cases.