I am going to begin shooting B&W nudes. Artistic not porn. I am not very experienced, just a few college classes. I would love to process and print myself but it's just not convenient. Are there laws or restrictions that will apply. Tips would be also be appreciated. I am interested in low light situation. My equiptment consists of a 35mm pentax. the empty room I am shooting in has track lighting but thats all. In the past I achieved good results with desk lamps.

JIM

-- Jim Scalzo (scalzo@handi-foil.com), September 25, 1998

Answers

I think that, as far as getting your film processed and printed, you wouldn't have too much of a problem. Most pro labs are pretty comfortable with fine-art nudes, especially in or near a large city. Of course, you may find a few small-minded people here and thereI would simply ask at the front desk. Another thought is Ilford XP2, which is run through color chemistry and thus can be printed at any 60 Minute Photo lab. There are so many of these around that I'm sure you can find someone to deal with. As far as your technique, a fast film would undoubtedly be required with track lights. But a slow film with long exposures might be cool too. Then again, you can pick up a few 250 or 500 watt photofloods and inexpensive reflectors which will give you lots more light for very little money. Experiment. Try to avoid cliches. Most nude photography is either predictable and safe or deliberately garish. You might want to check out my Site at: http://www.ravenvision.com/rvapeter.htm

-- Peter Hughes (leonine@redshift.com), September 26, 1998.