Total noob here, asking for some critiques

[scottkim]

Hi everyone,

I recently did my very first B&W film processing. Personally I'm happy with the result, but I haven't got many people around me who can give me some advice+critics on these images. So I'm here to get some pro advices from you guys. Just any opinion of your would be appreciated. :meh:

The shooting was on the beach, bright day light.
Olympus OM10 + 50mm f/1.4
Ilford HP5+ 400
Agfa Rodinal 11mins

Blog entry here
Flickr set here

- Wondering that is the level of grain normal for this type of shooting?
- I personally like to have more contrast in the image. Increasing the developing time would be the answer? If so, how much more should I try?

Some of samples here.


Happy Dog by scott.kim.flickr, on Flickr


Happy Hour at Bondi by scott.kim.flickr, on Flickr


Hiding from Yourself by scott.kim.flickr, on Flickr


No Idea What This Is by scott.kim.flickr, on Flickr


Mermaid Temptation by scott.kim.flickr, on Flickr

Thanks in advance,
scott

 

[3bayjunkie]

Developing looks great. Love the one with the mermaid and flying whale

 

[Parker219]

Wow, that flying whale pic is really cool. I love that one. It looks like people are looking up at it. Really great!

 

[bazooka]

The first and last are really strange shots, really eye-catching. Nice.

 

[timor]

Hi and welcome on TPF Scott. I am glad we have a next film shooting photographer. Congrads on first own film development, it was successful in general. You've got the images. As much as I like Rodinal, I like it in combo with Agfa APX100 best, with HP5 it produces too much grain and grain is visible in all monotonal portions of your pictures. It was a beach in full sun, you don't need ISO400 film in this conditions. Try next time FP4 (in Rodinal, but 1:50), you will gain much on contrast and clarity of the pictures. Also find maybe a yellow filter for such an occasion. If you like to have more c&c post some of them in "The Black & White Gallery" where our "critics" lurks.

 

[scottkim]

Thanks everyone for replying.

Hi and welcome on TPF Scott. I am glad we have a next film shooting photographer. Congrads on first own film development, it was successful in general. You've got the images. As much as I like Rodinal, I like it in combo with Agfa APX100 best, with HP5 it produces too much grain and grain is visible in all monotonal portions of your pictures. It was a beach in full sun, you don't need ISO400 film in this conditions. Try next time FP4 (in Rodinal, but 1:50), you will gain much on contrast and clarity of the pictures. Also find maybe a yellow filter for such an occasion. If you like to have more c&c post some of them in "The Black & White Gallery" where our "critics" lurks.

Cheers Timor.

Since I have been so used to auto ISO, now it hits me that ISO400 wouldn't be suitable on the beach with bright sun! I guess I really need to go back to the basics Thanks.

 

[timor]

Since I have been so used to auto ISO, now it hits me that ISO400 wouldn't be suitable on the beach with bright sun! I guess I really need to go back to the basics Thanks.

Very well, you'll have questions, just ask.