BetterPhoto Q&A
Category: New Answers

Photography Question 

Lisa S
 

Professional film and processing


I have several questions:
1) I have read about Portra 160 and 400 NC, VC and recently purchased 400 VC as suggested by the salesperson, but have not shot with it yet. I am planning to use it for people which I thought would be best getting the NC. Has anyone used it?
2) I was actually thinking of a black and white photo on a black, white and golden taupe label. Has anyone had a color negative developed in black and white?
3) I was going to use the black and white film that has a golden tint, but the store associate suggested 400 VC and if I liked a particular picture, it could be developed in black and white. I would like more info on the differnet black and white film.
I am working on a container label for buffalo wings which is going to be sold to a mexican restaurant and would like to use a photo on the label possibly altered to opague in PhotoShop. Thinking of a head shot of a waiter wearing the sombero with the head slighly lowered. Ideas welcome.


To love this question, log in above
June 17, 2003

 

Jon Close
  The Portra 400VC can be used to create b&w prints, but it seems a waste to use this specialized and more expensive color film with the intent of creating a b&w image. Save the Portra 400VC for another occasion (like shooting flowers, fall colors, but not people). Stick it in the refrigerator if you won't be using it w/in a few weeks.

Get and use what you wanted in the first place, the C-41 process Kodak Black and White 400 (or their professional Portra 400BW).


To love this comment, log in above
June 17, 2003

 

Lisa S
  Thank you for responding. It sounds like I was right in my intent, but thought the sales person knew more, so I went with her advice. It was expensive for 5 in a pack so I may return it and exchange it for 400NC since I will mainly be photographing people and get the black and white film also. Is the C-41 the one that gives a golden tint?


To love this comment, log in above
June 17, 2003

 

Jon Close
  Yes, C-41 b&w films, when developed, return an gold/orange negative. This mask allows the negatives to be used with color printers/paper to make b&w prints.


To love this comment, log in above
June 18, 2003

 
This old forum is now archived. Use improved Forum here

Report this Thread