noir/high contrast effects

[leralpunk]

very new to black and white photography but i'm coming in w/ a background in film (meaning i watch a lot of movies). i'm trying to duplicate some of the effects from film noir (diffused light through water or high intensity light from one side, etc) but have been having troubles with my negatives getting too little or too much exposure. how do i use everyday items around my apartment as a means to achieve the looks i'm going for? thanks.

 

[fightheheathens]

well, if you want high contrast, a red filter will really help with that.
as for stuff around the house...im not really sure i can help

 

[Rob]

Try TMax 3200 ISO and desk lamps... As this is very sensitive film, it will more closely resemble the sensitivity of your eyes and make it far easier to get a good fast (but grainy) contrasty image.

Rob

 

[Digital Matt]

It sounds like the problem is that you are not metering and exposing correctly, given that you say you are getting "too little or too much exposure". I would read up on how to use your light meter, and set your exposure.

http://www.photo.net/learn/making-photographs/exposure