By Anna Chan
The printed edition contained 5 stunning images by Gauntlet Staff. Due to request, the images were not put online. Please see the print edition to be amazed by their beauty. You really should check it out; there was lighting, bridges over troubled water, flowers, fireworks and even a nightline of the city. The remaining part of the photo feature follows:
Tutorial: Film Speed
The film in your camera will affect the outcome of the image. Each roll of film will have a few numbers on it. The one to pay attention to is the ISO number, also called the ASA number. This indicates how quickly the film reacts to light. The speed of the film doubles as the value doubles. A film with an ISO of 400 will be twice as sensitive as one with an ISO of 200. The higher the value, the faster the film.
However, a faster film will exhibit more grain. Grain is the appearance of crystallization in a photo. It resembles a variation in the consistency of the image. Typically, the higher the film speed, the higher the grain. To the right, the plant shot at ISO 50 possesses a smooth image. The other photo, shot at ISO 400, has a higher appearance of grain.
Take into account the size of the print that will be made. Larger prints or enlargements of a photograph will make the grain more visible.
Grain can produce a nice effect in certain situations, but is often a preference of the photographer.
Some general tips:
- avoid leaving camera straps hanging off the edge of tabletops
- plan ahead and wear comfortable clothing that you’re not afraid to get dirty when out photographing
- don’t be afraid to step closer to the subject(s) in your photo
- check battery power and film (or card) before leaving to shoot
- whatever the occasion, use the neck or wrist strap, just in case
- unless intended, watch for your shadow and reflection in your frame
As I sign-off, feel free to contact me at anna@gauntlet.ucalgary.ca.