Film Speeds

Film is the one thing that can really make or break your photos. Choosing the wrong film will destroy any amount of photographic talent you have. It doesn’t matter how great your camera is, or what a great eye you have for taking the perfect photo. If you are using the wrong kind of film, your photos will not come out right, period. When it comes to choosing the right film, there are a few factors you need to consider. First, of course, you need to find film that works for your camera. For instance, 35mm film is the right choice for SLR cameras, but other kinds of cameras, like large format cameras, medium format cameras, and so on, each have their own specifications when it comes to the right film. Without getting the right film for your camera, your picture taking won’t even get off the ground. But once you know what kind of film your camera takes that is not the end of the story. Next, you have to consider what kind of photos you will be taking, and where you will be taking them. Why does this matter? Because, the kind of photos you are taking determines what kind of film speeds you need. Choosing the right film speed means the different between blurry, grainy photos, and crystal clear, bright, sharply contrasted images that will do you proud. Many people shy away from fooling around with film speeds, for fear that it will be overcomplicated. But it actually is relatively simple and can make all of the difference in the world when it comes to your photographs.

Film Speeds Explained

When it comes to film speeds, there are two terms you need to be familiar with – ISO and ASA. The International Organization for Standards, or ISO film speed, gives each kind of film a number rating that is also knows as a sensitivity rating. This sensitivity rating determines if the film speed is slow or fast, depending on the amount of time it is exposed during the photo process. The American Standards Agency, or ASA film speed, number on film was the film rating system that preceded the ISO ratings, and it still seen most rolls of film. The meaning of the ASA number is the same as the meaning of the ISO number. The difference between film speeds is that faster film speeds are better for action shots and dark places, while slow film speeds are best for sunshine.

There is tons of guidance available on the internet that can help you determine your specific film speed needs, like the best film speed for underwater shots. The answers to these questions will maximize your photo’s potential.