[APML]: film recommendations

[Jim Fedina <jfedina@sbsusa.com>]

Hi all,

Just got my second roll of astrophotos developed. I used Kodak PJC 1600
film. Looking through the pictures I realize it's a little grainy. I now
know what everyone means by the grain of film. I'm going to have to
compare these with the first roll of 1000 speed that I took. Other than
the grain problem, the pictures came out pretty good. Anyone know what
the best film for camera on tripod astrophotography is? Should I have
stayed with the 1000 speed or drop down to 800 or even 400? Should I go
higher to possibly the Konica SRG3200? I want clear shots that show a
lot of detail and stars. I know I will have to go to darker sites than
my backyard, but would like to be armed with the best possible film for
what I'm going to do.
I even tried a closer shot of M42 with a 200mm lens opened up fully
(F4.5) It isn't too bad even though it's a little blurry. Could this be
a problem with the lens? I know I didn't touch the camera or tripod
during exposure (which was about 10 seconds) or should I have shortened
the exposure time? I would like to give the same shot a try with my
500mm bug lens. Anyone know what the exposure time should be for that. I
will send the photo with the 200mm lens to anyone who requests it. Maybe
you could give me advice on what to do to enhance my ability at
astrophotography. I also have a 200mm shot of the Pleiades which could
also be sent, even though that is more blurry than M42. There is also a
good shot of the Hyades and Pleiades together. If anyone would like to
see what I've accomplished I'll be glad to send them to you. Just let me
know which you would like to see.
Any recommendations on the film or anyone have any pictures to send with
examples of what you can do with simple means (camera/tripod no
tracking) would be greatly appreciated.

By the way, this roll was developed at a Walgreens with 1 hour
processing, just in case that is a factor.

Thanks,
Jim Fedina