Digital BW, The Print

Although I own a couple of digital cameras I still use MF film exclusively
for my work. Coming from a traditional background I feel more confident with
film and film cameras.  It's not only understanding the characteristics of
various films and their unique qualities but it's also having to create
images confidently without the reliance of previewing on the LCD screen.
Plus I'm concerned about the reliability of digital when working in remote
locations and climate extremes. Granted, photojournalists use digital
cameras under extreme conditions but, for me, film is a known quantity and I
feel far more secure with it. Not having to lug around a laptop, converters,
cables, backup devices, etc. is a real plus. And, in addition to the DVD/HD
backup, I like the feel of archiving a real piece of film. And the list goes
on.

I own and use several MF cameras/systems. I primarily use a Pentax 645 as
it's quicker, lighter and a little bit more discreet but also use the larger
and heavier P67 for more contemplative tripod work. I use both traditional
film (Delta 400) and C-41 films. They both scan very well (Nikon 8000) and
film (especially traditional BW film) has a far wider exposure latitude in
comparison to most digital CCDs. Although the 67 format provides larger file
sizes I've been able to produce large output (30x40) from both formats.

I may use up to 60-80 rolls of 220 film per project/trip so scanning can
indeed be time consuming. But after the usual edit (from traditional contact
sheets!!) I scan perhaps a few dozen images. So it's not any more time
consuming than reviewing several hundred downloaded digital images or
several darkroom printing sessions. Plus, fortunately for me, scanning in
grayscale is a lot quicker. I have several glass carriers so while one is
scanning I'm loading a couple more.

Someday I would like to make the switch to digital capture but I think I'll
be using film for the foreseeable future.

Good luck!

Rick Murai

www.richardmurai.com
http://www.hawaii.edu/mjournal/text/issues/descriptions/cambodia04.html





> After as much research as possible, I decided to just ask the
> question here---very basic but perplexing for me.
> 
> I am a (relatively) long time digital photographer--I came from film
> (35mm)--but haven't shot film in quite a number of years.  I never
> had a darkroom--and don't intend to now.  I'm quite proficient in PS,
> use Quadtone RIP for printing b/w with my 2200 (a larger format
> printer will come eventually, but not the immediate future).  BUT--
> I've recently gotten the itch to buy a Pentax 67 as the prices go
> lower and lower--but just am not totally sure of the workflow to get
> it from camera to printer (and if there is more than one way to skin
> a cat).      
> 
> Of course, the other question is--is this even reasonable to
> consider.  I currently shoot with a Canon 20D--have considered FF but
> will not make the jump to it with the new 5D--not right now anyhow.
> I've prepared a list of pros and cons for the used 67--but, because
> I'm digitally minded, will print digitally--is this just crazy?
> 
> I've been reading the John Sexton thread too, but really couldn't
> find anything else on the forum while searhing that addresses this--
> and the pros/cons.
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
> 
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