How to Shoot Double Exposures on 35mm film (A Complete Guide)
By Danny D | Last Upload on May 23nd 2023 | HOME → HOW-TO → SHOOT DOUBLE EXPOSURES
Even though 35mm film has been pushed to the wayside, there are still a few of us left who will dig out the Pentax K1000 for a few good film shots.
For most, choosing the best film for night photography is a personal choice. The following is the best film for low light that I have personally used.
- What Is Double Exposure?
- How to Shoot a Double Exposure on 35mm Film
- Alternative Double Exposure Method
- Properly Exposing a Double Exposure
- Underexpose by one stop
- Selecting the Best Subject
- The Challenge of Darks and Lights When Double Exposing
- Properly Exposing a Double Exposure
- Double Exposure Examples
- Best Film for Double Exposure
- Start Shooting Double Exposures – Have Fun!
This photo is the work of Claude TRUONG-NGOC (Ctruongngoc).
In this photo, the conductor is exposed on top of an image of the score. The white parts of his collar limit the score from showing through, but otherwise, both images are visible.
What Is Double Exposure?
When shooting 35mm film photography, a double exposure occurs when you take two images on one frame before advancing the film to the next one. In other words, you’re exposing the same frame at least twice, layering two scenes on top of one another. This process creates some extremely creative images, and it can be quite fun to achieve.
How to Shoot a Double Exposure on 35mm Film
The process of shooting a double exposure is fairly simple. You need to trick the camera into not advancing the film. Here’s how to do it.
- Take the first photo as you usually would.
- Tighten the film using the rewind knob.
- Keep holding the rewind knob, and push down the rewind release button on the bottom of the camera.
- Cock the rapid-wind lever, which will re-engage the shutter even though you haven’t advanced the film.
- Take the second exposure.
Since this process isn’t exact and there might be some overlap on the next frame, do one blank exposure between frames to avoid another overlapping image. Each camera will have a slightly different method for double exposing, but the key is to prevent the film from advancing, then take the following image on the same frame.
Properly Exposing a Double Exposure
Taking a double exposure isn’t complicated once you learn the proper way to stop your film from advancing. What is more challenging is exposing the film properly so that you don’t over-expose it when you take the second image.
Under Expose by One Stop
When you take a double exposure, you are shooting the same frame twice, which means you’re exposing it to light twice.
To ensure it is correctly exposed at the end, purposefully underexpose each of the two images by one stop. This lets in about half the amount of light. Use the TTL metering or a handheld light meter to get it white.
This photo shows the image of the draft house sign against a backdrop. The double exposure technique creates some bright areas where the light is, and the underexposed background allows the lighted sign to show clearly.
Check out Eric James Photography for more examples of double exposures from a very talented photographer.
Best Film for Double Exposures
You can use most film types for double exposures, though E-6 slide film isn’t ideal because of its lower exposure forgiveness than color or black-and-white C-41 film. If you are planning to shoot in low light, consider choosing a film for night photography that has a high ISO. Otherwise, the best film speed for your setting is the one you want to choose. Just remember to underexpose it by one stop.
Start Shooting Double Exposures – Have Fun!
The best way to learn how to take double exposures on film is to get out there and practice. Learn your camera and how it can be done with it, then take to the streets and capture some unique images.
Sources
Compact Camera boasts a high resolution 17MP four thirds sensor that is excellent in low light conditions. High speed autofocus helps you find your perfect frame for precise focusing on all of your subjects.