Instax Mini 9 Film Not Coming Out – Try These 7 Fixes
When operating your Instax mini 9 camera, you may notice that at times, the photo does not eject from the camera after taking a shot or that the protective black darkslide does not eject after you have put in a new film pack. There are several reasons that can cause this.
These reasons range from a weak battery or corroded battery contacts to a defective camera. Other minor causes include a blocked film slot, damaged film, malfunctioning film roller, or the film is loaded incorrectly. Some of these issues can be easily fixed, unless you are working with a defective camera. In this case, the solution will involve replacement.
This article is a compilation of the reasons why your Instax mini 9 films may not be coming out and offer some solutions.
Why Is My Instax Mini 9 Film Not Coming Out?
The Instax mini 9 is one of the most popular instant film cameras in the market. It offers good performance and the convenience of getting your photo as soon as it is taken. However, there are some common problems that instax mini 9 users have come across while using the camera. One issue that has been reported by many is the film not coming out. There are several reasons why this may be so.
Weak battery in the camera or film pack
The main culprit for this is often low battery power. This is because to eject the film, a lot of power is needed. Therefore, there may be sufficient power to capture the image, but the camera halts when expected to push the film through the unit.
It is important to note that the flash as well as the ejection of the photo depend solely on the battery of either the film pack or the camera itself. Hence, leaving the camera open for extended periods of time causes gradual draining of the battery.
Ensure that you always turn the camera off whenever it is not in use to keep the flash from draining the film pack’s or camera’s battery. Also, before you embark on any photography session, ensure that the camera is fully charged.
Defective camera
Sometimes, you could be dealing with a defective camera. If upon putting the film pack in the camera, you hear the camera’s response of a motor noise with nothing coming out, you can try re inserting the film pack. If this does not resolve the issue, use a different film pack and check to see how it behaves.
Again, if your camera fails to eject the darkslide or photos from both packs, then it could indicate that your camera is defective and needs repair. The faulty part is often the one that is responsible for pushing each photo forward.
Corroded battery contacts on camera or film pack
If you are working with an older Polaroid camera, they tend to corrode or soil their battery contacts and this prevents proper connection to work optimally. These contacts are basically two copper strings extending from below the film compartment.
Hence, you can either try cleaning them using a flat, slim object or simply remove and re-insert the film cassette.
Blocked film slot
If your film is not coming out of the camera, you can try checking the back cover and film ejection slot. It could be blocked or there is an issue with the film cartridge and that is why no film is coming out. If that is the case, one solution is to replace the film cartridge with a new one. If this doesn’t work, then check if there is any object blocking the photo ejection slot.
Damaged film
It is impossible for the film to be properly ejected if it is damaged. To protect your film, avoid excessive pressure, direct sunlight, and bending once the self-developing process commences.
Film incorrectly loaded
If your film cartridge is not properly inserted, then there is no way that the camera will work properly. Locate the film holder and check to see that it is installed with the right film and that there is film remaining in the holder.
Malfunctioning film roller
The Instax mini 9 comes with a mechanical roller that works to eject the film from the camera. Once the film is removed, release the shutter to check whether the roller is functioning properly.
FAQs
What does it mean if there are flashing lights on my Instax mini 9?
The brightness indicator that is located at the front of the camera tends to blink orange if you have a low battery or if there is anything wrong with any of the components. However, if it persists, it is advisable to have your camera checked by a professional.
Conclusion
The Instax mini 9 camera is a great choice for vacation and anywhere you may want to take instant photos. It has proven itself in terms of performance and photo quality if the right film is used.
In case you face any issues with the camera, it is advisable to take it to a camera specialist. If it is a matter of the film not ejecting, we have summarized the causes and what you can do about it as well.
You Can Also Read:
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- How to Put Film in Instax Mini 9
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- Why Is My Instax Mini 9 Blinking Red
- Instax Mini 9 All Lights Flashing Orange
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