James Taylor

Hi, I have recently, and for the first time, begun to explore under-exposure and have as a result been pondering a specific point. Can anyone tell me why certain colours, particularly bright orange/reds, seem to pop out more after moderate under-exposure - is it simply that they carry more resistance to under exposure being at the top end? Is this what I can see in The American Friend (robby muller) as the reds and oranges have a florescent quality against an otherwise dim background. Would appreciate some clarification, thanks. James

Thanks very much for that info, the examples are v. helpful. You know, I haven't seen "You, The Living" but will soon -it looks interesting. From what I can see online the grain looks right and the colours and contrast nice and soft. It's funny because I intend to apply this look to fairly long and static takes as well so a great example for me to look at. Cheers. James.

Thanks for that. I'd rather not shoot super 16 at moment because I want to take full advantage of student discounts on 35mm stock - won't last forever. When you say high speed stock did you have a particular one in mind? How fast are we talking? Also, would pushing greatly compromise the shadow detail? Thanks

I have a background in still photography and love kodak's Tri. X 400 film. So, I like a certain amount of grain. I realise that the manufacturers of film stock endeavour to eliminate the visibility of grain but as with the Tri.x still stock, are there any 35mm (colour) motion picture films which have a grain to them, ideally, having low contrast and soft coloration too. I'm guessing the 'T' series is a no-go as this seems to be the case with the stills stocks I've used? Would appreciate some help here as kodak themselves are disinclined to admit to any visible grain - seems to run contrary to their values. Thanks.

Hi, I am a cinematography student preparing a project to be shot on 35mm and am wondering if desaturating your footage in post looks the same as treating the stock in some way whilst filming. If not what methods for desaturating stock can you recommend? Which stocks tend to have softer coloration? Also, controlling contrast is of interest. Am I right in thinking that 'pulling' the stock will achieve both? Thanks.