Filter w/Impossible 8x10?

**bvy** · 10-Aug-2015, 14:31

I wonder if anyone who's using the Impossible Project 8x10 black and white film (previous or current version) has found any value in using a filter with portraits. The stuff seems to be very contrasty, and without a lot of wiggle room in terms of exposure. Doing portraits with strobes, I'm finding that the skin is easily washed out while dark areas appear underexposed. I'm still experimenting with my lights, and a green filter seems to have helped (although I've only tested it on the smaller format [600] frames), but I'd like to hear from someone who may have some experience here. Thanks.

**vinny** · 10-Aug-2015, 15:55

If you are in control of the lighting, I do not understand why you are having issues with contrast. A filter isn't going to change the problem.

**bvy** · 11-Aug-2015, 07:19

I think it can help. I want to see more texture in the skin. It would help if Impossible published tech data on their film -- curves, spectral sensitivity, etc. I've not been able to find such documentation.

**Tracy Storer** · 11-Aug-2015, 09:09

A green filter will darken white (pink) skin, that is what you are seeing.
I did a little testing with the 2.0 8x10 BW and found that while it has a much better D-max than the older film, and is generally cleaner and smoother than the earlier version from 3 years ago, the contrast is tricky. Shadow separation is pretty muddy and highlights blow out, I think it's an either / or proposition with this film, unless you can control contrast with lighting or, as you suggest, adjust the way colors "read" by lightening / darkening them with a filter. Whatever works, it helps to know why it's working.

**djdister** · 11-Aug-2015, 09:31

You have to be very careful using filters for B&W - the cool colors will darken the skin tone and in some cases (blue) make faces look blotchy and generally hideous. I would also avoid green and only use warm color filters, which will tend to mask red spots and skin imperfections (for Caucasians), giving an overall smoother rendition of facial tone. And work to lower your lighting ratio to 1:2 or 1:3 to smooth out the harsh contrast.