My first roll of llford SFX200

[one90guy]

This is my first attempt with this film, I have a Cokin 89B filter to use. After looking for information on the net there seems to be a lot of disagreement. I am looking for a starting point and anything else if someone will share.

Thanks
David

 

[Jon Shiu]

I think the Ilford recommendation of 4 stops adjustment with a deep red filter is a good one. (I would even try 5 stops, depending on the subject matter, because I've gotten thin, flat printing negatives sometimes.) So, one method would be to set your camera to ISO 12, meter your subject without the filter and set your aperture and shutter speed manually. Then put the filter on and take the picture.

Jon

 

[one90guy]

Jon

Thanks I was thinking about at least the 4 stops. But I was not sure about metering with or without the filter. Hoping to finally have some cooler weather have been looking forward to using the film.

David

 

[monodave]

I have used SFX for many years, including while I worked for Ilford, although not with that filter. As long as peak transmission for the filter is around 720nm it will be fine. SFX is actually HP5 with some extra IR dyes so it needs the right filter to achieve the full effect. I have some info on my web site on the FAQ page (about a third of the way down page). Hope it's of use. Dave
http://www.davebutcher.co.uk/faq

 

[johnalex141r]

Focusing with SFX200

Hi all; I have read that for focusing, either 1) use the IR "dot" on the lens, or 2) because SFX-200 is not really IR film, focus normally.

Any comments? I'm using a Fuji GS645S with sticky rangefinder, so my results may not be scientific. (have the IR filter, btw) Hopefully for next summer I'll get the camera fixed.

Thanks; JohnS.

 

[Jon Shiu]

Here is a link to the Ilford SFX200 pdf re: exposure, focusing etc.
http://www.ilfordphoto.com/Webfiles/2007651134552223.pdf

Jon

(I should have said "very deep red filter" in my post above for 89B, R72 etc.)

 

[Aurum]

When I've used it, set speed to ISO 200, meter and focus without the filter, open up 4 stops slap, on a R72 filter and go to town.
Hint: If using a SLR frame using the flash shoe on top of the pentaprism. If you are using a TLR, just put the filter on the taking lens, and the rest is as easy as using a TLR usually is.
A rangefinder should also be an ideal way of framing and shooting this as well with a dark filter on

 

[one90guy]

Many thanks to all of you, I have a much better understanding of what to expect and a great starting point. I intend to try to use the roll next weekend, and see how I do.

David

 

[patricia de roeck]

David, I'm trying to get to grips with this film too, my best results have been with the R72 filter, no adjustment to focusing and getting the best IR on bright sunny days between 11.00 am and 2.00pm, any other times than these and its a bit ordinary.

 

[one90guy]

Hi Patricia, thanks for the filter tip, and naturally 1 I do not have. Have you tried the 89B? Have you found that any one lens better? I had never considered lens choice till just now.

David

 

[Marc Akemann]

I have used SFX for many years, including while I worked for Ilford, although not with that filter. As long as peak transmission for the filter is around 720nm it will be fine. SFX is actually HP5 with some extra IR dyes so it needs the right filter to achieve the full effect. I have some info on my web site on the FAQ page (about a third of the way down page). Hope it's of use. Dave
http://www.davebutcher.co.uk/faq

I found this info most useful. Thank you.