BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: Traditional Film Photography

BetterPhoto Member		Negative vs Reversal I am an advanced ameteur photographer. On and off I do photo essays for publications, which finances my hobby. I do both b&w and colours on negative films. I am thinking of switching to reversal films. Can you please enlighten me on this as to why I should or should not be doing it - pros and cons. If you recomend, give me some hints for a beginner. To love this question, log in above February 14, 2004

Bob Cammarata		Color reversal (slide) film is the preferred choice of many photographers, amateur and professional. Pros: Better detail and color rendition. More control over how the final image will be. (The film in the camera becomes the actual image.) Preferred by many publishers Easy to make prints if you want. Cons: Less exposure latitude.(Any mistakes more than a half-stop under or over exposed, are very noticeable.) Less contrast latitude. (Typically, around 4 allowable stops from highlights to shadows,...depending on brand of film.) *Can become damaged when stored improperly, or projected repeatedly. I recommend Provia 100F for daylight/outdoor use (or with flash), and Ecktachrome 160T for use indoors, or in the presence of incandescent lighting. These two have worked well for me. Which ever brand or speed film you decide on,...your exposure needs to be right on. Unlike negative film, mistakes cannot be as easily corrected. To love this comment, log in above February 14, 2004

Robert Bridges		things to consider. If the company wants color then shoot the slides - that way you can control usage better by giving them dupes (shoot in camera) or scanning and giving them jpg. IF they want both color and b&w and are not willing to pay for you to 1) buy/process both and 2) rent a second body then shoot color negs and scan as both b&w and color. To love this comment, log in above February 19, 2004

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