Tips on getting accurate exposure when using a 1.6 ISO film
- Use a handheld light meter: Although your camera may have a built-in light meter, a handheld light meter can provide more accurate and versatile readings, especially for low ISO films like 1.6. Take incident light readings from your subject's position for the most accurate exposure settings.
- Bracket your exposures: To ensure you capture the best exposure, consider bracketing your shots. Take one photo at the metered exposure, then take additional shots at one or two stops over and under the recommended exposure. This will give you a range of exposures to choose from when selecting the best image.
- Use the Sunny 16 rule: In bright sunlight, the Sunny 16 rule can be a helpful guideline for determining proper exposure. Set your aperture to f/16 and your shutter speed to the reciprocal of the ISO (in this case, about 1/2 second for ISO 1.6). Adjust your settings accordingly if the lighting conditions change.
- Pay attention to your light sources: When using a low ISO film, it's crucial to be aware of the available light sources and their intensity. Place your subject near a window or use reflectors to maximize natural light. Alternatively, use artificial lights, such as continuous lights or strobes, to create the desired lighting setup.
- Utilize a tripod: With a low ISO film like 1.6, you may need to use slower shutter speeds to achieve proper exposure. To prevent camera shake and maintain sharpness, use a sturdy tripod and a cable release or self-timer when shooting at slow shutter speeds.
- Experiment with filters: If you need to control the light entering your camera, consider using neutral density (ND) filters. These filters can reduce the light without affecting the colors, allowing you to use wider apertures or slower shutter speeds.
- Take notes: When shooting manually with a low ISO film, it's helpful to keep a log of your exposure settings for each shot. This information will be invaluable when reviewing your images later, allowing you to learn from your successes and mistakes and improve your exposure skills.
- Develop a reliable workflow: If you're developing the film yourself, establish a consistent workflow to minimize variables that could affect the exposure of your negatives. Use a trusted developer, fixer, and consistent development times to maintain uniformity across your images.
- Consider the film's unique light source balance: This particular 1.6 ISO film is not balanced for daylight or tungsten light, but rather optimized for exposure under laser, CRT, and LED light sources. As a result, it was not primarily designed for in-camera use, and the colors may appear unconventional. To achieve the best results, experiment with different lighting setups, including using laser, CRT, or LED lights as your primary light source. Be prepared for unexpected color shifts and embrace the unique visual qualities that this film can produce. You might discover creative possibilities that you wouldn't achieve with traditional daylight or tungsten-balanced films.
- Manage or embrace the blue color cast in daylight: When shooting this 1.6 ISO film in daylight, you may notice a strong, brilliant blue color cast. You have two options to approach this characteristic: balance it out or creatively embrace it.
a. Balance the color cast using filters: To counteract the blue color cast, you can use color correction filters. A warming filter, such as an 81-series filter (81A, 81B, or 81C), will help neutralize the blue tones by adding warmth to the image. Experiment with different filters to find the right balance and achieve a more natural color rendition.
b. Embrace the blue and get creative: Alternatively, you can use the blue color cast to your advantage and explore its creative potential. The brilliant blue hues can lend a unique, dreamy, or otherworldly atmosphere to your images. Experiment with various compositions, subjects, and lighting scenarios to make the most of the film's distinctive color characteristics.
By implementing these tips and techniques, you can achieve accurate exposure when shooting manually with a 1.6 ISO film. Experimentation and practice are essential for mastering the unique challenges and rewards of low ISO film photography.