[TheForge] Mastermyr photo question...

[Mike McKim]

I think it is important to point out that film, and particularly color film
is non-linear in its response to light and colors in somewhat of an S shaped
curve. The 18% gray is a reference only, and it happens to work great in the
center of this S curve.which works well for "typical shots" and it is good
to have one as a check on your metering systems. Photographing dark metal
tools happen to be in the dark end of the S curve and will tend to have to
be overexposed to obtain maximum detail/information.

Generally films and cameras are optimized for "typical shots" indoor
family/party activities and outdoor activities. And further, film and
cameras are optimized to capture the human face accurately, this is the most
highly recognized item our tiny brains are tuned to interrupt.

Well documented test shots of the items to be photographed, and using a pro
shop as Terry points out will give the best results.

Mike McKim