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Introduction |
This guide will show you how to replace the degraded light seals in a Canon A-1 camera to restore image clarity and prevent light leaks. Before beginning the guide, make sure to take the batteries out of the camera and power it off. If your photos show warm toned splotches of color or rays of light on top of the image, the light seals in your Canon A1 camera need to be replaced. If thesethe light seals erode, light will leak into the photo and obscure the images the photographer is trying to capture. The light that enters through the erosions can cause flares, streaks, and fogging to the image especially in high contrast lighting. These seals also ensure the pressure is maintained to keep the film flat and hold the camera tightly closed. If your light seals are sticky near the camera door edges, or the foam is deteriorating to the touch, it might be time to replace them!. This fix is at a beginner level and takes 2-3 hours to complete. The materials needed include a High Density Foam Light Seal Replacement Kit, a rocket blower, Isopropyl alcohol 91% or greater IPA, and Q-Tips. |
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Conclusion |
After completing all the steps above, close the lens to the camera. Re-insert the battery into the camera, and add in a test roll of film as well. Turn on the camera and shoot a couple photos in order to see if the light seal is working correctly. | | After completing all steps detailed above, replace the lens by completing step 3 backwards. Once shooting with the fix, high contrast photos are a good way to test the light seal placement. If there are any remaining light leaks, inspect your foam placement and gently press down each foam strip to maintain full contact in the crevices. Over time, check your light seals during routine cleaning—especially if the camera has been stored in heat or humidity. If this guide helped you, consider sharing your experience or leaving a comment to help other film photographers in the iFixit community. |
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