I'm a begginner in photography and has just acquired a Pentax MZ50 35mm with 35-80mm lenses. I know this isn't a very good equipment but is something I can afford to start my hobbie and I've seen reasonable pictures taken with similar equipment. I'm using Kodak T-Max 400 film and developing it according instructions using T-Max developer. Although the pictures seem nice they don't have the pop-up effect that I've seen in many b&w photographs. I know that practice will lead me to better pictures, but what am I doing wrong? Is this a matter of film, light, aperture ? I need a clue.

-- Herbet Camerino (hbrasileiro@cihi.ca), April 14, 2000

Answers

As a recurring theme of mine on this forum, I want to tell you that the equipment you have is fine (if it is in proper working order). Outstanding photographs can be created with almost any camera. You will discover as you become more involved in studying photography that many "pros" sell images created with toy cameras, polaroid cameras, primitive box cameras, etc. How much you invest in equipment is not nearly as valuable as how you invest in your mind.

Have you checked into local photography classes offered in your area camera stores or community college? Your question is a little broad to be answered adequately on this forum. I would suggest that you show some of your photographs to another photographer, photo lab, or camera store personnel and try to get a few tips to get you started.

-- Rick Stiles (rick.stiles@csoconline.com), April 14, 2000.

If I may be so bold, I would suggest that you start using Tri-X film, and HC-110 developer for a good starting point. Regards, Pat

-- pat j. krentz (krentz@cci-29palms.com), April 14, 2000.

Try Ilford Delta 400 developed in Kodak XTOL. You get the "pop up" effect with manageable contrast. You need to experiment with your exposure index and developing time in order to get the right combination for your enlarger. I have found that at least 20% overexposure and a corresponding 20% development pull is a good starting point if you are using a condencer light source in youe enlarger.Do a lot of shooting, developing and printing and you will start to get the hang of it. BTW Kodak has some excellent books on the subject of B&W, check them out. Don't worry about your equipment, I'm using a 26 year old camera and a 32 year old enlarger.You are better off spending your money on film, paper and chemicals rather than the latest gadget.

-- Robert Orofino (rorofino@iopener.net), April 14, 2000.

I sure agree with the advice given above, and although I would not want to specify the best film for your use, I do think that Kodak T- Max 400 is a bit difficult to use, and you might want to use a film that has a little more latitude and 'forgiveness.' Also, I do think a LOT of how your images look has to do with the printing of them, and learning that takes time and effort.

-- Christian Harkness (chris.harkness@eudoramail.com), April 15, 2000.

I'm not exactly sure what you mean by "pop-up effect". But if it's a question of flatness versus good contrast, I suggest you make sure you're not over- or under-developing your prints. Also, experiment with different grades of paper or filters (for multicontrast papers). I also agree with those who suggest that you try another film (at least for now) -- something like tri-x or hp5+ -- since these films are more forgiving.

-- Christopher Hargens (ldmr@cruzio.com), April 21, 2000.