How to Use a TLR Camera
By an eHow Contributor
Many photo enthusiasts favor the medium format photography and the square frames it produces. While there are several ways to produce pictures in this format, using a TLR (twin lens reflex) camera ranks among the more popular methods.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:
TLR camera
120 format film
Tripod (optional)
Shutter release cable (optional)
Hand-held light meter
Loading the Camera
1
Slide open the latch at the back of the camera. This will pop open the back door and expose the film-loading compartment.
2
Take the empty film spool out of the bottom portion of the camera by gently pulling the film retainers apart. Move the spool to the film retainer at the top portion of the camera. Be sure it is properly in place before proceeding.
3
Unwrap the new roll of 120 film and place it in the film retainers at the bottom of the camera with the tapered end of the paper on top and facing the top of the camera. Gently pull the film forward and insert the paper tail into the slot of the empty film spool.
4
Turn the wind knob until the film holds firmly in place, using your thumb as a guide to keep the film in the slot. Close the back door of the camera. Make sure it snaps into place.
5
Slide back the door of the red film viewer window. Continue advancing the film with the wind knob until the number 1 appears in the window. You are now ready to shoot.
Shooting
1
Figure out shutter speed and aperture settings by using your light meter. Simply point the light meter toward your subject and line up the dials. You will get a reading on which F-stop and shutter speed you should set the camera. Adjust the 2 dials at the front of the camera (on the lenses) accordingly.
2
Mount your camera onto the tripod. This is a good idea for beginners who don't want camera shake ruining their photographs. Even experienced photographers usually will mount a TLR onto a tripod.
3
Get your subject into focus. Do this by flipping up the top cover of the camera to reveal the viewfinder. The image will appear upside down in the viewfinder. Pop out the small magnifying glass and train it on the image you are focusing on.
4
Turn the focus knob until the area in the magnifying glass becomes clear.
5
Press the shutter to take your picture. Pull out the winding knob and advance to the next exposure. Return the knob into place before shooting again.


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