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camera problems


I just recently bought a 35mm Yashica Fx-2. It was working well for a while, but when I just tried to take a picture with out the film in it, the shutter release button locked up and the shutter got stuck. I'm not really sure what to do. Can you help me?


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September 12, 2008

 

Alan N. Marcus
  Hi Rachael,

I have never owned or handled the Yashica FX-2. However, this is a vintage, SLR, film, camera. The shutter movement as well as mirror function, are purely mechanical. Likely it had died and you should consider putting it to rest as knickknack on a shelf. That being said, I advise opening the camera and trying to rotate the film transport sprockets by hand. Unlikely that this will revive the camera, but its worth as shot. Also this camera has a film rewind button that disengages the gear train allowing the sprockets to freely rotate backwards for film re-wind. Check this button/leaver by working it a few times. As a last resort load a roll of film and see if this act re-establishes operation. All above fails take it to a camera store and if the clerk/owner had gray hair, allow him/her to examine. Likly the advise will be to suggest a Canon S5 as a replacement. Take this advice.

Alan Marcus


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September 12, 2008

 

Mark Feldstein
  Try gently turning the shutter speed button to a different speed and make sure the camera isn't somehow set on B for bulb or time exposure mode. If it is, push the shutter release button again and see if that releases everything. OR, take it off "time" setting, advance the film advance handle, and see if that does it. The other thing is check the battery )ies) if it has them. Dead or low batteries could cause this problem as well. And as Alan suggested, check the rewind button. In fact, put a roll of film into the camera and try loading it.

As to the Gray haired clerk at the store...brilliant, I'd say. LOL !!! Although I;d disagree with the Canon S-5 and look for a Nikon F-2. Built like a hockey puck and capable of pounding fence posts, with or without motor drives, lenses or batteries.
Take it light. ;>)
Mark


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September 13, 2008

 

Bob Cammarata
  ...Not likely battery-related, in that this model is indeed mechanically operational.
(Just like my Nikon FM2's, the battery only powers the exposure meter.)

Try what Mark and Alan already suggested and fiddle around with the shutter speed dial and other controls.
(...or seek out that gray-haired dude if you have plans for your recently acquired camera to go on living and keep re-creating your mind-eye visions.)


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September 13, 2008

 
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