Since you really can't control exposure with these cameras, you have to try to adjust the development of the negative to get a decent image. A few days ago I was shooting ISO 100 film with the 6x7. In the Michigan gloom the correct exposure worked out to 1/4th of a second at f11. I then shot the scene with my Holga loaded with JandC Pro 100. The Holga has a shutter speed of about 1/100 and an aperture of f8 / 11.
I figured I needed a 4 to 5 stop push.
I have worked out a development time of 12 minutes at 75F using Microdol-X 1:3 with this film. So, I developed it for 75 minutes in the Microdol solution, more or less giving it agitation every 30 seconds. As the final step, and hoping to pump up the contrast, I dumped the Microdol, rinsed, put in D19 for 1:1 for 2 minutes. Then fixed and washed as usual. The result - a
pretty decent negative with a very clear base (no fogging) and good tonal range (maybe a bit thin - like 1 stop underexposed.)
It was very scan with good contrast and fine grain. I probably got a solid 4 stop push with this technique, and the Microdol seemed to keep the grain under control It may have softened things but, cripes, the photo was shot on a Holga, so there's no telling re softness...
So - for those who have tried this - how far _can_ one push most B&W? I realize that starting with a faster film would be better - but sometimes the camera is loaded an you're stuck...
- MCC
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Mark Cassino Photography Kalamazoo, MI www.markcassino.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
