portrait photography

[Matt.H]

I was wondering what the best speed film is for portraits? or doesnt that matter? Im just testing the waters of the portrait side of Photography and want to take some test shots.

 

[Alpha]

Depends entirely on the setting. Outside, I've shot plenty of film slower than ISO 100. I routinely shoot Agfa RSX 50, Ilford PanF (iso 50), and Maco UP64. Those films might require some strobe power indoors. On the other hand, I've also had to throw on an ND filter on a number of occasions when 400 film was too fast.

Here are my mainstays for portraits:
ISO 50 when I can.
Otherwise ISO 100, or 160 if I'm shooting Kodak Portra.
400 if I know the light will be low.

As you can see, it's not really much different than shooting anything else when it comes to film selection. However, that can definitely change if you're doing studio work, especially depending on the camera's format (larger format=more light requirement @ the same speed).

I'm going to try a portrait in 4x5 with Kodak Ultratec soon. Should be interesting, considering I'm rating it at ISO 6. Might need to tie down the model.