Quick answer

The FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter lets you load 118 roll film into cameras designed for 120 film. You spool the 118 film onto a 120 spool using the adapter, load it in the dark, and shoot. Success depends on your camera's film chamber and advance mechanism, so test with a sacrificial roll first.

What the FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter actually does

The FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter is a darkroom accessory from Film Photography Project that adapts 118 film for use with 120 film equipment. It does not change the film's width or the camera's optics; it simply allows you to respool 118 film onto a standard 120 spool so it can be loaded into a 120 camera. This is useful if you have a stash of obsolete 118 film or want to experiment with older emulsions. The adapter is listed under the Darkroom category and tagged as a camera accessory, so it is a tool for film handling, not a camera modification.

Check your camera before you commit

Not every 120 camera will accept respooled 118 film. The film chamber, pressure plate, and advance mechanism must be able to handle the spool and film thickness. Cameras with tight tolerances or automatic film sensing may not work. If you are unsure, test with a cheap roll first. Also consider that 118 film is wider than 120, so the image area may be cropped or vignetted depending on the camera's mask. The FAK 122 to 120 Film Adapter is a separate product for 122 format; do not confuse the two.

Step-by-step: using the FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter

Work in complete darkness. You will need the FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter, a 120 take-up spool, and your 118 film. The adapter typically consists of a spacer or core that fits into the 120 spool to match the 118 film's core size. Follow the steps below carefully; the main risk is fogging the film or misaligning the spool.

Steps to adapt 118 film for a 120 camera

  1. Gather materials in the dark: You need the FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter, a 120 take-up spool, your 118 film roll, and scissors if trimming is required. Work in a darkroom or changing bag. Common mistake: trying to do this in subdued light—118 film is not forgiving. Checkpoint: everything within reach before you start.
  2. Attach the adapter to the 120 spool: The adapter fits onto the 120 spool's core to match the 118 film's inner diameter. Slide it on firmly. If it feels loose, you may have the wrong adapter for your film type. Common mistake: forcing it—if it does not seat easily, stop and check compatibility. Checkpoint: adapter sits flush and does not wobble.
  3. Respool the 118 film onto the 120 spool: In darkness, unroll the 118 film and wind it onto the 120 spool with the adapter in place. Keep tension even to avoid cinching. Common mistake: touching the film surface—handle only the edges. Checkpoint: film winds smoothly without buckling.
  4. Load the spool into your 120 camera: Place the respooled film in the supply chamber and thread the leader onto the take-up spool as usual. Close the back and advance to the first frame. Common mistake: not checking that the film is seated flat—if it binds, open in darkness and reseat. Checkpoint: advance lever moves without excessive resistance.
  5. Shoot a test roll and note framing: Because 118 film is wider than 120, your camera may crop or vignette. Shoot a test roll at different apertures to see how it behaves. Common mistake: expecting perfect frame spacing—some cameras may overlap frames due to thickness differences. Checkpoint: develop the test roll before shooting an important subject.

Product facts

  • FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter: The FAK 118 to 120 Film Adapter from Film Photography Project is a darkroom accessory designed to adapt 118 film for use with 120 film equipment. It is listed under the Darkroom category and tagged as a camera accessory. This tells you it is a handling tool, not a camera conversion, so you still need a 120 camera that can physically accept the respooled film.
  • Kodak Brownie Junior 620 Camera - USED: Kodak Brownie Junior 620 Camera - USED: Condition: Used. Camera has been fully tested as working. Comes with 90 day warranty. Cosmetic condition: Good - Showing exterior wear, with marks and scratches on front face of camera appropriate for vintage era item. Film transport gears: Excellent - Film moves forward and advances smoothly. Film compartment area: Excellent - Good clean. A tested vintage camera like this can be a reliable platform for experimenting with adapted film, but note it is a 620 camera, not 120, so you would need a 620 spool or adapter. This is an example of how format mismatches add complexity.
  • FAK 122 to 120 Film Adapter: FAK 122 to 120 Film Adapter: Convert 122 film cameras to shoot standard 120 film with this precision adapter. Machined to exact tolerances for reliable film advance and consistent frame spacing. Essential for photographers maintaining vintage gear or experimenting with alternative formats. Simple installation—no modifications to your camera required. Compatible with most 122-format bodies. This is a different adapter for a different format. If you have a 122 camera, this is the one you need; the 118 adapter will not fit. Knowing the distinction prevents buying the wrong tool.