Nikon FM2: 35mm Film Loading, Frame Advancement Confirmation, and Safe Rewinding

Scope: Only Applicable to Nikon FM2

This guide only explains the loading and rewinding of 35mm film for the Nikon FM2 and does not extend it as a general operation for all 135 cameras. The back cover lock, take-up spool, and rewind controls may differ between models; confirm the camera model and follow the corresponding manual before starting. [N-FM2-01]

Open the Back Cover and Load Film

Using the FM2 manual, operate the back cover lock and film rewind knob to open the camera back. Place the film canister into the film chamber, pull the film leader to the take-up spool, and advance the film as instructed in the manual; before closing the back cover, make sure the film perforations engage with the sprockets and the film is positioned within the guides. [N-FM2-02, N-FM2-03]

Tighten the Film Leader and Confirm Normal Film Advance

After closing the back cover, rotate the film advance lever in the direction indicated by the rewind knob arrow to take up any slack. Then press the shutter and advance the film until the counter reaches frame 1. While advancing, observe whether the rewind knob rotates counterclockwise; the FM2 manual considers this rotation as a check that the film is advancing correctly. If it does not rotate, reload the film and verify the perforations engage the sprockets again. [N-FM2-04, N-FM2-05]

Rewind and Remove the Film After Shooting

After finishing shooting, press the film rewind button at the bottom of the camera, then rewind in the direction indicated by the rewind knob arrow. Observe the change in rewind resistance as per the manual; once the film leader is fully back in the film canister, open the back cover and remove the film. Do not use the control positions and directions of this FM2 for other models. [N-FM2-06]