Photography - Troubleshooting Photography

This will happen sometimes when using new plate holders, or if the plate is a little large or made of thick glass. The latter trouble will not be experienced if high grade plates are used, as reliable plates are coated on specially prepared glass which is very thin. By pushing down the spring on which the plate rests and tapping the plate holder gently on the back, the plate will generally fall out. Tapping the end of the holder, containing the spring, on your hand or the edge of the table — at the same time tilting the open side of the holder forward — will cause the plate to drop out into your hand. Practice this latter method — outside of the dark-room — with an old plate, until you understand and can accomplish the removal of the plate with ease.