Photographics 10, Photography 20, 30 and Graphic Arts 20, 30

Module 4: Black and White Photographic Films (Core)

Suggested time: 5-10 hours
Level: Introductory
Prerequisite: Module 2

Foundational Objectives

To understand the properties of light and how those properties affect image production.
To develop skills related to the use of photographic equipment.
To practise good photographic techniques .

Common Essential Learnings Foundational Objectives

To enable students to evaluate different films and determine appropriate applications. (CCT)
To provide opportunities for students to use vocabulary and forms of expression that demonstrates knowledge of film properties. (COM)

Learning Objectives	Notes
4.1 To research the evolution of film. (IL)	The use of an acetate base is the latest innovation as a medium to carry light sensitive crystals commonly called film. The early types of photographs were made with wet and dry plate glass negatives that had a film put on them. Have the students explore the history of the negative.
4.2 To list the components and understand how they are used in the manufacture of black and white film. (NUM)	The students could draw a scaled cross-section of the film to show the placement and relationship of the film's elements. Silver halide crystals (silver bromide) come in a variety of sizes. Discuss the effect of having a mixture of crystal sizes as opposed to crystals of similar size on black and white films. (CCT)
4.3 To explain the reaction of light sensitive crystals when exposed to differing intensities of light. (COM)	Discuss the size of the photo sensitive chemical crystal and its relationship to film speed. The more intense the light, the greater the chemical reaction within the crystals.
4.4 To explain film speed as it relates to the International Standards Organization (ISO) numbering system for film.	ISO numbers have replaced American Standard Association (ASA) and Deutsche Industrie Normen (DIN) are no longer used. Discuss the ISO numbering system and how it relates to the chemical make-up of the film and resulting images produced by that film. Most electronic cameras will read codes that are carried on the film cassette and set film speed automatically.
4.5 To demonstrate the ability to select the appropriate type of black and white film for a variety of lighting situations. (CCT)	Have students make a table of black and white films currently available from various manufacturers and list and compare the characteristics of each film. The popular black and white film and most easily obtained are categorized as slow speed (ISO 50 and lower); medium speed (ISO 100 and ISO 125) and fast speed (ISO 400 and higher). Have student investigate film types that are for special purposes or lighting situations. These might include infrared film, chromogenic film, high contrast or line film, instant print film and others. Students can explore different lighting possibilities; for example, indoor vs. outdoor situations, low light vs. bright light, or situations requiring fast or slow shutter speeds. Another consideration is that the size of the finished print will affect the selection of film.
4.6 To examine the differences between panchromatic and orthochromatic films.	Most black and white films available are panchromatic and sensitive to the full visible light spectrum.
4.7 To research characteristics of film available from different manufacturers.	Have students research products available from Agfa, Fuji, Ilford, and Kodak corporations. The bibliography lists several websites that will be useful for this research project.