Steps for creating a double exposure with the Bolex:

STEP 1:

Check the footage counter before the first exposure, to see how far you will need to wind back the film.

STEP 2:

Film the first subject, compensating in your exposure by closing the lens an extra 2/3rd of a stop.
(See Double Exposure Tips for more on this.)

STEP 3:

Check the footage counter at the end of the first exposure, to see how long to run the camera for the second exposure. (You may also determine this while filming by counting seconds on a watch or using the Bolex’s internal metronome.)

STEP 4:

Close the variable shutter.

STEP 5:

Release the spring by simultaneously turning the spring-disengage lever from “MOT” to “0” and the run switch to “M.”

STEP 6:

Insert the backwind crank into the 8 to 1 shaft and turn in the direction of the arrow (counter-clockwise), watching the footage counter to see when you’ve rewound to the beginning of the shot.

STEP 7:

Before re-engaging the spring, first set the run switch to “STOP.” (It is important that you do this before STEP 8, or else the camera will start running as soon as the spring is re-engaged.)

STEP 8:

Re-engage the spring by turning the spring-disengage lever to “MOT.”

STEP 9:
Open the variable shutter.

STEP 10:

Film second subject for the same amount of time as the first subject, once again compensating for the double exposure by closing the lens down an extra 2/3rd of a stop.


Don’t forget to wind the spring before filming your second exposure!

The material on these pages may be printed out for personal use only. Use as course handouts only with proper acknowledgment of authorship and the New School's Film Production Department.