Tag: analog

California Poppies

I’m a bit behind on the BW project, but all because of working on the scanning software and getting it to process black and white.  I have a Pakon scanner, which is fab for 35mm film.  I spent a couple of days ironing out and learning the software, as well as applying patches which allow more than color negative and C-41 black and white film.

This is the first image I have gotten back from the developer doing something I have never done before – pushing film.  Mark at If Time Stood Still made a wonderful picture of his youngest daughter, specifically the image called The Lunch Date.  He shot Ilford HP5+ and pushed it.

Using his instructions, I did the same.  The result is really pleasant, and seems to push contrast to level I like.  Since I prefer shorter scaled B&W to longer scale in general, this is a good technique to know.

Mark processes his own film B&W, as well as color, and scans his film, too.  (Altogether, I think he is an amazing photographer, especially of his family.)  Go visit his site!

So, more to follow!

Heart of the Pine

Today I am going to break the silence of the Silent 365 project.  I’m a bit behind, but I’ll tell you why.

I have been working for hours on managing the software quirks for the Pakon 135 scanner I use for 35mm film.  I finally have it working where I can do color negative film, positive / slide film, C-41 black and white, and genuine black and white.  Post processing is done primarily in Lightroom and On1 Photo Raw.  It’s a good feeling that I can scan my film in a good scanner which produces better results than a flat bed.

Ah, the benefits of retirement!  Time to solve problems and stay focused on them for a long time!

A Bit of Color: Loquats for the Picking

A break from the silent 365 project.

Spring is here!  In my area, orange trees are in blossom, filling the air (i.e. my back patio) with sweet smells.  Flowers are blooming, bulbs are emerging, and the butterflies are flying around!  We have not seen such abundance in nature for years here – drought and fire.  Today, it is cloudy and overcast, the sky is ominous.  It even rained while I was out for a short hike through Wildwood Park to catch what remains of the super bloom.  I took my trusty OM-1 and 55mm macro lens and a roll of Provia slide film.  I’ve really begun focusing on using film, and enjoying it a great deal.

This image was taken with Fuji Superia 200 and a Niikon N90S camera, and my first roll through this new-to-me camera.  The lens is likely my 28-85mm macro lens.  Having a film camera with autofocusing is a new one for me – I have an F100 but it is a little quirky – and it performs beautifully.  ITh just finished a roll of Ilford HP+ 400 iso, shot at 800, and in development (if the lab doesn’t screw it up) at +1.  We’ll see what happens!

Anyway, a few words from yours truly, in need for a spot of color!