Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/09/01
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]At 01:33 PM 01-09-97 -0800, you wrote: >Dan Cardish wrote: > >> Also, I propose using colour film (Fuji Reala), though I could use B/W >> (Tmax 100). > >Dan: > >Best and easiest would be transparency film such as Kodak E100. The >only variables might be that calibration of the aperatures and shutter >speeds which might vary the exposure slightly. > >Donal Philby >San Diego Others have suggested transparency film as well. Unfortunately, I'm not about to have my three cameras calibrated just for this test, and without careful calibration, random variances in shutter speeds and aperture openings may have a significant effect on perceived picture quality. Also, I am aware that some lenses are "warmer" or "cooler" than others, and this may be a dead giveaway as to the picture's origin (unless I confuse the issue by putting a "cold" film in the "warm" camera, and vice versa ;-) ). Therefore, I will use Fuji Reala 100 print film, printed full frame (or almost so), and individually colour and density balanced at the printing stage to make them as identical as possible. If people can only distinguish lenses from detailed minutiae obtained by studying hugely magnified sections, or the original film itself, this largely proves my original assertion. I am really trying to see if people can distinguish a Leica image made under normal shooting circumstances (eg, lens opening about f8) from others merely by studying a normal book sized photograph. I also want the test to be as simple as possible. If a null result is obtained, at least a certain limit will be established as to which circumstances will enable a leica lens to outshine a competitors, or vice versa (god forbid!). On the other hand, maybe everyone will be able to spot the leica picture with their eyes closed, so there will be no need for further testing! Also, I should word the question in the same manner that Pepsi worded their Pepsi Challenge question; not which picture was taken with the Leica, but which image appears most pleasing to the eye. Just a thought. Maybe everyone can spot the differences, but will prefer the Minolta image! (again, if there is a god....;-) ) Dan C.