Re: [APML] Agfa Optima Prestige film

Walter,

I haven't tested the new Agfa Optima 400 film (just heard about it by your post. The Agfa site has a data sheet, dated May 2003 for the Optima 400 that shows reduced red response compared to the old Optima II 400 film (see my test results from April 2002 at: http://home.nethere.net/mpd/FilmTestData/AgfaOII.htm ). Hypering the old film helped the green and blue, but did little for the red. The new film data sheet shows higher red sensitivity at around 610-620 nm and a steep decline in sensitivity for wavelengths longer than 650 nm (the old film had its steep decline longer than 660, Halpha is 654 nm). This is consistent with Kodak and Fuji reworking all their color negative films to peak at shorter red wavelengths to "improve" color photos - mostly skin tones. I guess they don't like blushing cheeks.

Anyway, thanks for letting us know about the new Agfa film. One question though: I couldn't find any mention on the Agfa site of Optima Prestige film. Let us know how this works for you this weekend.

Don

At the recommendation of the manager of the camera shop where I get my pictures developed, I am going to try Agfa Optima Prestige film. I asked him about film that had good red response. I picked up 4 rolls of ISA 400 and will try this weekend while I am in New Mexico. Has anyone here used this film? What were your impressions?

Thanks.

Walter Willis