AboutSteve Pearson Expertise Try me for 35mm or darkroom issues. I am a professional photographer in Australia. I work solely in 35mm digital format, after 35 years of colour and monochrome film in many formats. I have darkroom experience and for many years belonged to my local camera club. I conduct photography workshops around the state on any and most subjects relating to photography and often judge photography exhibitions and competitions.
Experience I hold a Diploma of Applied Science in Forensic Investigation, with part of my studies involving photography. I spend most days with a camera and am into digital photography in a big way. I was given my first camera in 1965 and have not been without one since. I spent nearly 20 years as a forensic investigator with my state Police Force, and since retiring a couple of years ago have concentrated on commercial photography - especially weddings.
Expert: Steve Pearson Date: 4/1/2004 Subject: What type of film is best for action shots at sea?
Question I am going whale watching soon and am wondering what type of film (35mm) would be best to take.
I imagine it will be quite bright and maybe some glare off the water. The boat and obviously the whales will be moving so I am thinking a fast film is needed. I will be using a 70-300mm lense but I have not taken any pictures in this type of environment before.
Is a 400 film too slow? I want the pictures to be sharp & clear but also not blured.
Any advice apreciated.
Thanks
Answer Lee.
Definately use ISO400 film - nothing slower. Set your camera at 1/500 shutter speed to counter any movement you may get on board the boat. Use a polarising filter to get rid of most of the glare from the water and to render the true colour of the water. You will have to be careful of exposure as bright water will underexpose your shots. If you have a grey card handy, take a meter reading from that in the same light as the water, then set your camera at whatever the exposure meter tells you AND LOCK IT THERE.
If taking shots at 300mm you will have to hold the camera VERY steady - that's why you need a fast shutter speed. If you can, crank it up to 1/1,000 sec. If need be up-rate your film to ISO800. Don't worry - the film has enough latitude to still give you a good exposure. I suggest you use something like Fuji 400. Good colour and fine grain.
Have fun. Steve.
