[Leica] Global dimming and photography

[nicholsj at edge.net (Jim Nichols)]

Rick,
I started flying light planes in 1957, and, on most days, visibility was
great.  By the time I could no longer maintain my Medical Certificate, in
1993, in the mid-south USA you could expect one clear day following a
frontal passage and then it was back to the haze layer once again.  I'm a
believer in the fact that things have been changing, not for the better,
for nearly 50 years.
Jim Nichols


> [Original Message]
> From: Rick Dykstra <rdcb37@dodo.com.au>
> To: Leica Users Group <lug@leica-users.org>
> Date: 4/11/2005 3:19:17 PM
> Subject: [Leica] Global dimming and photography
>
> So there's this thing called Global Dimming, caused by soot and 
> particles from exhausts, aero engines and industry, which has caused an 
> increase in clouds (reducing the immediate impact of Global Warming) 
> and causing a major reduction in the amount of sunlight reaching the 
> surface of the earth.  It must be true - I saw it on telly.  It was the 
> immediate aftermath of 9/11 that brought it to prominence - the skies 
> were suddenly much clearer without all the air traffic - and 
> temperatures rose noticeably.
>
> Anyway, the measurable differences in light levels in various places 
> around the world, now vs 50 years ago, is huge.  Like 15% on average 
> and up to 25% in some places, such as Russia.
>
> So, has anyone noticed the difference? Do the rule on thumb exposure 
> methods leave you with underexposed shots now?  It was Doug's post on 
> using an SL body for K25 that prompted me to mention this.  Is there 
> enough light anymore for such slow films?
>
> Maybe Global Dimming will be Leica's salvation - fast lenses will be 
> all the go.  ???
>
> Rick.
>
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