Double sided tape for long exposures

[Bill McMannis]

Have you tried a Grafmatic? The couple I have hold the film quite securely.

[QT Luong]

Thanks vinny for the suggestion. Looks like a good ready-made version of what I've been using. Drew, this sounds a good idea. What tool do you use to cut the fins ?

[Drew Wiley]

I just use a good stiff sharp blade on a utility knife, with a 12-inch steel straightedge.
The plastic fins on a typical Lisco or Fidelity holder will trim right off. Nothing to it. Then I check for any leftovers burrs or sharp edges which need a bit of further trimming or sanding. It obviously helps to practice first with a beat-up older holder.

[tgtaylor]

Ever since switching from readyload holders to Toyo cut film holders (4x5) I have never had a problem with film shift during long or multiple exposures where the 2d exposure is taken 1 to 2 hours later. I haven't tried such exposures with 8x10 yet but my 8x10 holders are Fidelity Elite and they don't hold the film as snuggly as the Toyo 4x5's do.

Thomas

[Steve Gledhill]

Two weeks ago I made three 8.5 hour exposures of star trails in Canyonlands NP - my first. I didn't consider the matter raised here.
I'm just about to develop the film so I'll find out shortly if the sheets popped or moved ...

I've posted the results here - two good i.e. film didn't move, but the third displays all of the problems of moving film

[vinny]

Thanks vinny for the suggestion. Looks like a good ready-made version of what I've been using. Drew, this sounds a good idea. What tool do you use to cut the fins ?

You don't have to remove the fins, it would make things easier but not necessary. I only know this because of a friend who is using the tape (in 8x10 holders) hasn't done so, just pop the film out.

[Steve M Hostetter]

Try using polaroid film 8x10" I know is held in tight

[patrickjames]

I would agree with the mention of a Grafmatic above. They hold the film very securely along three sides if adjusted accordingly.