Minolta 700si Recommendations

[weaselb@xxxxxxxxxx (Ken Schneider)]

Hi,

I've been experimenting with IR using my new Minolta 700si and have noticed
various problems depending upon the lighting situation.  Sometimes there's a
problem with the pressure plate which results in rectangles of underexposure
on the negative.  Sometimes there's areas where part of the picture seems to
get washed out (only a few of the pictures -- and I did everything in an
IR-proof changing bag).  And my negatives always come out extremely dense
using a 100 ISO setting (25A filter).  I especially notice this when I get
my IR printed on color paper.  It turns a pinkish red signifying a poor
exposure.

I'm wondering if anyone else with a Minolta 700si has any recommendations
they can give me (as time allows, I plan on doing some systematic testing to
find out more about correct settings for my camera).  Is it better to shoot
at 100 ISO with a +1 or +2 exposure compensation or should I switch to a
higher ISO rating?  Assuming my camera is metering wrong, does that imply
that even moving up to 400 ISO I'd still have to use exposure compensation?
As far as the pressure plate goes, W.J. mentioned that some people use the
paper backing from 120 film.  Could someone please expand on this?  What's
the purpose of the pressure plate, anyway?  Is it just to keep the film
straight?  Sorry if that's too many questions, but thanks!

As far as the SFX-200 discussion goes, I've shot a few rolls and like it,
but it's the halo effect that grabs me in IR and I just don't think the SFX
compares.  It just doesn't make the picture "surreal" enough for me.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
Kenneth Schneider  --  Strategic Technology Resources (www.str.com)
Senior Human Factors and Usability Consultant
e-mail: schneide@xxxxxxx            Current phone: (414) 221-4722
http://www.execpc.com/~weaselb
- -------------------------------------------------------------------

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