Re: [Leica] Why I do not shoot color

[Andre Jean Quintal <megamax@abacom.com>]

I don't shoot color because I don't know how.  I don't understand color theory,
color temperature, color tones, color films, and I don't know how to print in
color.  I don't know how to use color filters nor do I know how to balance
mixed lighting.  I don't know how to calibrate my monitor to print color.  I
don't know how to meter correctly to shoot chromes properly.   Miraculously my
crappy color negs look respectable in grey scale.  My cap is off to Eggleston
and others who can do it well.

	--> Oh come on!
	At least you spell it out.
	What about "recycling" your past frustrations
	so as to maximize the newer digital oriented,
	and quite affordable, digital technologies.
	I'd say about an hour a day for a week would
	get you documented beyond the point of resistance
	and into enjoying color oriented photography.

	"Clinically", real life photography that is,
	color is just natural: get those cones excited,
	get the pleasure center to appreciate YOUR color work.
	You are used to forms, texture, image composition,
	tonal range, foreground background considerations,
	simply add color.
	Start with daylight, any time of day: make the most
	of what's in front of you. FEEL it in color.
	GRAB the colors that are there but so many others
	don't see for not having YOUR photographic eye.
	Turn problems into "art" ...
	Don't go for "off the wall" color photography on your
	first roll. Simply try to convey what already interests you
	in B&W. Make it a step by step "acclimatization" process.

	Perhaps trying to exploit a "theme" or the light of the moment,
	but augmented by the many color dimensions
	you are well aware of and write so well about ...

	If you enjoy lab work, try your hand at a roll or two
	of Ektachrome. It's quite simple to get as good results
	as most pharmacy type labs deliver with equipment
	you probably already own, allowing for a better
	thermometer and more focussed mind the first few times;
	protect your hands if you are chemical sensitive.
	Just follow the instructions and don't drink the solutions ...  ;+)~

	I guarantee you'll be elated the very first time !

	Andre Jean Quintal