How to Replace a 35mm Focusing Screen
All manual-focus single lens reflex cameras come equipped with a "focusing screen," which allows the photographer to bring objects into sharp focus. The focusing screen consists of a flat, rectangular, translucent plate, typically made of glass, featuring an etched design in the center which comprises the focusing aid you see when looking through the viewfinder. A damaged focusing screen can make focusing your pictures impossible, and replacing it yourself will save you money.
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Things You'll Need
- Manual-focus 35mm single lens reflex camera
- Tweezers
- Replacement focusing screen
- Clean cotton cloth
Instructions
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Remove the lens from your camera. The focusing screen is located at the top of the enclosure and is milky-white with a clear circle etched in the center.
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2
Locate the black metal clip along the front edge of the focusing screen, near the lens mount.
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Carefully pull the clip toward you with your fingernail until the focusing screen hinges down and lies flat against the camera's mirror.
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Note the alignment of the focusing screen in it's metal frame. This is how you will orient your replacement screen.
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5
Delicately remove the old focusing screen from the metal frame with the tweezers and set it aside on the cloth.
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Using the tweezers, place your replacement focusing screen in the metal frame, being careful to orient it the same way as the old screen.
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Hinge the new focusing screen and its frame back up toward the top of the camera with the tweezers. Click it carefully back into place.
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Replace the lens and try to focus on a few different objects at different ranges to make sure your new focusing screen is functioning properly.
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Tips & Warnings
Your local camera repair shop will likely stock replacement focusing screens for popular models. Try them before you look for a replacement on the internet, as they will ensure you buy the right screen for your camera.
If your new screen looks dusty, blow the dust off with compressed or puffed air before installing it. Do not rub anything against the screen, as this could damage the etched surface.
Do not touch the surface of the screen with your hands, gently grip it with the tweezers while handling. Oil from your skin will damage the etched surface of the screen.
References
- Photo Credit film-camera on camera-bag image by Andrii Oleksiienko from Fotolia.com
