Good exposure

[P3D <PTWW@xxxxxxx>]

Here's another message I sent last week that somehow didn't make it
into any digest.  Again, sorry if this is a duplicate to anyone:

Dr. T writes:

>Of course, there is always the issue of "what is a good exposure"? Maybe
>because my viewers are brighter than average my choice of exposures might
>look a bit in the dark side by other viewers or in dimmer projection.

Dr. T raises a very good point that could stand to be expanded on
somewhat.  "Good exposure" can only be defined with respect to a
particular *combination* of camera, film, development, and viewing
method.  Some professionals recommend running a new exposure test
any time *any one* of these changes, even when merely changing from,
say, one Realist to another same model Realist.  Certainly exposure
evaluation from $3 viewer to Themelisized Red Button to a particular
projector--and is that old or new bulbs you're projecting with? ;) --
will vary widely.  Even changing the light source a viewer uses can
change the evaluation of correct exposure.  Just try looking through
a favorite slide in your $3 viewer while sitting on the couch, then
get up and walk toward the light source until the viewer is just inches
from the light.  You will probably observe *more than* a one stop
change in apparent exposure correctness as you move toward the light.

Paul Talbot


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