B&W, what is the truth?

[John]

I'm taking an entry-level class on 35mm, and I'm choosing to shoot in B&W. My question is directed at anyone who knows. Is there an obvious difference in the appearance of digital grayscale and B&W filming, or does PhotoShop make it a wash? I’m not using anything fancy, just cheap Kodak 400 B&W and having Wal-Mart print it out for me. I understand that Wal-Mart is printing my stuff on color paper. Does that make a huge difference? Thanks.

[LoungeLizard]

Originally Posted by John

I'm taking an entry-level class on 35mm, and I'm choosing to shoot in B&W. My question is directed at anyone who knows. Is there an obvious difference in the appearance of digital grayscale and B&W filming, or does PhotoShop make it a wash? I’m not using anything fancy, just cheap Kodak 400 B&W and having Wal-Mart print it out for me. I understand that Wal-Mart is printing my stuff on color paper. Does that make a huge difference? Thanks.

I grew up on B&W - and I believe the dynamic range and contrast you get from B&W film is difficult, if not impossible, to duplicate in digital. In addition, printing it may introduce other problems as most printers get shades of grey by mixing colors - instead of using true B/W.

Best of luck - and have fun.

[lscottpht]

I grew up on B&W - and I believe the dynamic range and contrast you get from B&W film is difficult, if not impossible, to duplicate in digital. In addition, printing it may introduce other problems as most printers get shades of grey by mixing colors - instead of using true B/W.

I agree. I love Tri-X for black and white much more than shooting digital and converting it. To me, there's just no comparison. I will convert some color digital images to black and white, but if I have the money, I will invest in film for this.

[John]

Thanks so much for your replies, folks. I was beginning to wonder if I would ever get a reply, to the question. I have another question. How important is the paper to the B&W print?

http://www.picturetrail.com/pa-paw

[Hogleg 44]

Maybe this is not in general keeping with this thread. I haven't followed it very closely, but here is something I came across yesterday that Might fit in here.

http://www.insidegraphics.com/digita...nnel_mixer.asp

[sbug_adam]

digital is not capable, as of now, in duplicating film BW..

Adam

[swanny338]

I have gotten kinda close after like an hour of fine tuning but its ever so slightly off when printed with an inkjet.

I would tell you to shoot Kodak Tri-X or Fuji Neopan for BW