Bay Bridge

Bay Bridge, originally uploaded by M Skaffari.

Finally got around scanning some of my large negatives. This turned out to be a bigger issue than I thought. I didn't consider the size of the images / files.

Scanning 4x5 inch negative at 6400dpi results in 1.23G TIFF file. That also results in ~ 70x90 inch print at 300dpi so maybe i'm scanning a bit too high resolution if i'm just putting the files in the internet. If I need to print the images I will just scan at desired size.

Otherwise I have to say I like the results for both paper image scanning and film scanning. I can recommend the Epson V700 to everybody.

Scanner ordered

I finally got myself to order the scanner I need. Epson V700. Should be here by Monday and then there will be more images in this blog. Maybe I'll start working more with film now.

Finally got around to testing the Arista paper

It has been a long time since I managed to go into the darkroom. I finally managed to test out the Arista paper I got back in November! Not sure what happens with all my time...

I used Arista Private Reserve Paper and printed from Kodak T-max and Agfa APX films.

The paper is very nice. Easy to handle, it sits very flat. Contrast range is very usable, I ended up printing on grades 2 (T-max) and 3 (APX). The base is very white and the paper produces slightly warm toned grays. Overall I would say this paper is excellent value for money.

Now I still need that scanner to get the images from paper to computer.

550 is here

I just received my Polaroid 550 film pack holder. Now I have to start shooting something. I'm really running out of excuses to take the big camera out. Maybe this weekend is the time.

Complaining helps always

Yesterday I wrote on my problem of not being able to buy the film holder. Well, now I have one. Actually I don't have it yet, but won one Polaroid 550 on eBay auction. And also paid less than I was willing to invest. Groovy!

Looking for Polaroid pack film holder

I have been looking for either Polaroid 550 or Fuji PA-45 pack film holder for a while now. I would like to get a second hand one that is in reasonably good shape for reasonable amount of money. I have been bidding on both on eBay, but keep getting overbid, no matter ow far I'm willing to go. I could go and buy the Fuji PA-45 new for about 200$, but would like to save some money also.

If anyone happens to have one and are willing to part with it I would be very interested.

Polaroid 550 image by Polapix

Good old rules

The optimum aperture for sharpness and detail is about two stops away from wide opened.