Film For Family Reunion Portraits

[Marco S.]

Greetings All,

I've searched and searched, and can't decide on a 400 speed film in 35mm for portraits. I'm leaning toward either Neopan 400, Delta 400, and Tri-X. Still learning, so I currently use DD-X with Delta 100 and Fuji Acros.

I will be mostly shooting with indoor available light, occasionally using the built in flash on my Contax NX if needed.

Marco

 

[Kevin Caulfield]

Well, the best thing is to use something you're familiar with. I would suggest using HP5 Plus, but it wouldn't make sense for you to use that for the first time on important family reunion shots. Whatever you choose, shoot a few test rolls first so that you're comfortable and confident with it. The Neopan 400 does seem to be quite popular - I haven't tried it yet myself.

 

[rbarker]

It's really a personal preference thing. But, if you like Delta 100, you'll probably like Delta 400, as well. Works well in DD-X, too.

I agree with Kevin, though - shoot and process a test roll if you can, before putting yourself in the position of everyone "depending" on you for pictures.

 

[fschifano]

I'd lean more towards Tri-X, but then I'm particularly biased towards Tri-X for a lot of things. Hp5+ is good and so is Neopan 400 and the rest. If I want a film that I know will give me the goods though, it's Tri-X every time.

 

[Marco S.]

I would suggest using HP5 Plus, but it wouldn't make sense for you to use that for the first time on important family reunion shots. Whatever you choose, shoot a few test rolls first so that you're comfortable and confident with it.

I pulled up the PDF on HP5 Plus, and DD-X is the recommended developer for Best Overall Image Quality at 400-3200 and for finest grain. The trip is in January, so I'll order up some now and do a few trial runs and see what happens. To all who replied, you have my thanks and appreciation!

Marco S.