Integrated Exposure and Development
For film photographers who desire rich tonality, a full range of contrast, and control of how their negatives will look, the adoption of an integrated system for exposure and development cannot be stressed strongly enough. This is an important consideration for all situations, both day and night, but the added variables of long exposure times and inherent high contrast common to nighttime subjects make it ever more important to consider film exposure and development as interdependent parts. Chapter 3 profiles the methods of two photographers who have refined an integrated approach to exposure and development that coaxes the most from their film. To follow the exposure methods of one system and the development procedures of another will yield much less effective results. Their exposure charts are provided first, followed by a discussion of their techniques.

Given this base, it is still crucial to accept the fact that parameters for shooting at night are highly subjective and are best based in the personal vision and tastes of the individual photographer. Experimentation is key, because thereís no one firm and easy answer to what exposure time will work best. Bracketing within a range of exposure times and camera settings is also a must. Making notes in the field to document this process is a great learning tool that can serve in the development of personal vision, as well.

The level of detail contained in the deep shadows and the contrast in the glass blocks embedded in the ground are what make this image special. Although the light source is around the corner and hidden from view, Lance Keimig noticed that the glass reflected more light where it was in shadow, so he composed the image to include both areas in the frame. Only one negative was shot, and the film was processed normally in T-Max developer. A keen awareness of the delicate lighting, plus a bit of luck in judging both exposure and development, made this shot a success.

© Lance Keimig
Camera: Fuji GS 645, Lens: 60mm, Aperture: f/11
Exposure: Unrecorded, Film: T-Max 100