Hi Jim ...
Tri-X is a lovely film for B&W portraits, however, the proper
developer and development is important to get good results, i.e.,
the results you desire. If you're not familiar with the options,
and are not going to process the film yourself, then one of the
chromogenic B&W films may be a better option.
Also, lose the flash. Flash is ugly for portraits. Instead try
light from a north-facing window, or from a window that offers a
subdued, rather than direct, light. Another option, should the
situation allow it, is to shoot outside, either early in the morning
or late in the day (the magic hour), where the light is somewhat
directional, and there are no harsh shadows.
I'd not use a 135mm lens for head shots unless you can get back far
enough to reduce the compression effect of the focal length. Try
working with a focal length of around 100mm - I personally like the
range of 85mm - 105mm for the type of work you're describing.
Ilford's 100 Delta may be nice to try. I've just started using it,
and while I'm not expert with it as I am with TX, I can see that it
has some nice characteristics for portraiture. However, my take on
this is that if you have to ask about which film to use, you're
probably not too familiar with the options, and experienced enough
with the varieties of B&W film and processing (and please correct me
if I'm wrong), and shouldn't be experimenting with unfamiliar
emulsions for important work.
HTH,
--
Shel Belinkoff
mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]
"If it's a likeness, alone, it's not a success. If,
through my portraits, you can come to know the subjects
more meaningfully, if it synthesizes your feelings toward
someone ... if you see a photograph and say, 'Yes, this
is the person,' with a little new insight - that is a
beautiful experience." - Yousuf Karsh
> Jim wrote:
>
> Hi!
> I have my first "real" assignment coming up soon, a group of
> headshots for a local ballet company. They want the photos in
> black and white, which I enjoy doing. But I'd like some advice as
> to what film to use...
> I will probably be using my trusty Super Program, and will be
> using either a Pentax M Series 135mm/3.5 lens I just purchased on
> ebay, or if it hasn't arrived by the appointed time, my Vivitar
> 70-210/4.5 zoom. I will probably only be using my Sunpak Auto
> 266D flash for lighting. Shall I use Tri-X, or is there something
> else you would recommend? I'm all ears (in a manner of speaking).
> Jim
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