Re: [APML] End of Color Negative Film? :-(

[Philip Perkins <philip@astrocruise.com>]

Matt,

Although there are still a lot of colour negative films, the problem is 
that their spectral responses are being warped in deference to 'flesh tone' 
reproduction.  Another killer for me is the lack of anything in 120 
format.  The original Supra would have been good if only they had produced 
it in 120 format and I can't understand why not, because it was supposed to 
be a Professional film.

Of course there's the Tech Pan option, but I am not sure I want to get into 
tri-colour filters suitable for medium format at this stage.  I have never 
been tempted by slide film because of the much more tricky E-6 process when 
at a remote site, and also the reduced dynamic range.  Also, with E200 the 
OIII response is just not good enough in my view.  This is a widespread 
problem with Kodak films but E200 is especially bad.  Quite apart from 
astronomy, it's just not an accurate response to the visible 
spectrum.  Fuji films are generally much better for OIII, but their problem 
has generally been chopped off red response (which Kodak are now emulating).

The frustrating thing is that it is entirely feasible for either Kodak or 
Fuji to come out with an absolute 'killer' film that solves all of these 
problems, has superb spectral response, fine grain, and very low 
reciprocity failure.  I suppose the film companies are responding to where 
the mass market is, but I think there should be at least one colour 
negative film that responds properly to the visible spectrum.  The problem 
is self-perpetuating because it is driving more people to CCD imaging and 
that in turn is creating lower demand for film.

Already nearly all of my former 35mm work is being replaced by CCD but 
medium format is the area where film should still dominate because it can 
do things that current CCD technology cannot reasonably do.  At one stage I 
had high hopes for Fuji NPH 400 (120) but a test on M8 last summer seemed 
very disappointing - I may test it again though.

Ultimately I have to agree with you.  If I want to shoot something on 
medium format right now there is nothing I can use, given the above 
reasonable constraints.  I think this is a huge problem.

Regards
--Philip


At 12:24 13/02/03 -0500, you wrote:
>Is it now correct to say that there is no deepsky-worthy color negative
>film being manufactured anymore?
>--
>Matt BenDaniel
>http://starmatt.com


Philip Perkins - philip@astrocruise.com
Wiltshire UK & Luberon France
Astrocruise - http://www.astrocruise.com

_______________________________________________
Astro-Photo mailing list
Astro-Photo@seds.org
http://seds.org/mailman/listinfo/astro-photo