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QUESTION:
I am wanting to experiment with my nature photography. I am wanting to capture the sunlight rays that come down in forrest. I also want to be able to blow the pictures up to poster size photographs. What is the best speed B&w and color film to use. Also is there a better time of the day to achieve the best dramatic view of the light.
Marita

ANSWER:
Marita,
There are problems with exposing B&W or color film to capture sunlight in a forest. It is difficult to expose both for the sunlight and the darker forest. I suggest that you do a lot of experimenting with your camera and light meter and teach yourself. A tripod is most important as is a good light meter to expose for the highlights and the shadows. Learn about the zone system to properly place the meter readings. Most film will usually not reflect both the shadows and highlights so choices must be made to work with either the high values or the low ones. To make poster size prints you will need a lot of specialized equipment. If you send the negative out, or do it yourself, the negative size is most important. It is hard with 35 but easier with the larger negatives. All of the films at Freestyle will do the job but you should use faster film if you have windy conditions or long exposures. Early morning and late afternoon light works best for me, but sometimes this is difficult when you are in a forest and need the overhead light. Go out and experiment and don't give up until you have some images that you really like.

Robert Byers