Recurring Spots on Negatives

<p>Hi all,<br>

<br />I have a problem with my Leica M2 that I got recently. I have developed a bunch of film and after scanning today I noticed some over exposed spots on the negatives, and the strangest thing is that it always occurs on the same position. I know that a light leak might be responsible, but since I am mid-roll now I cannot test that directly. I am also unsure if light leaks will present themselves this way, since I always imagined they will be more streaky, if you know what I mean. Below are three images:<br>

https://jshare.johnshopkins.edu:443/wbeh1/public_html/FileHosting/2-2-2011_009.jpg<br> https://jshare.johnshopkins.edu:443/wbeh1/public_html/FileHosting/2-2-2011_008.jpg<br>

https://jshare.johnshopkins.edu:443/wbeh1/public_html/FileHosting/2-2-2011_013.jpg<br>

<hr>

<i>Mod note: Links substituted for oversized embedded photos.</i>

<p>I think I've figured it out. It's a curtain light leak.</p>

<p>I think I've figured it out. It's a curtain light leak.</p>

<p>From the samples, I think you are correct with a curtain leak. The only 'real' solution is to replace the curtains, however there are liquid patch materials you can try first. Be sure to let them dry thoroughly before winding the shutter and test firing.</p>

 

<p>Just get the shutter curtains replaced. Don't screw around with any sort of gooey stuff in your Leica. Have a little respect for the machinery. Treat it right, and it will do the same for you.</p>

<p>Well, I figured there was little to lose if I were to apply the liquid patch and leave it to dry completely. The worst thing that could happen was damaging the curtain, which would have to be replaced anyway. And guess what? It worked like a charm! Extremely thin layers applied with a fine artist's brush and leaving to dry overnight, and then a second coat to patch remaining holes and voila~! A good as new curtain. Shutter speeds still seem accurate too!</p>