1600 ISO: several options?

[Marc-A.]

Hello,
I would like to shoot at 1600 iso but I don't want the results to be too much grainy. So I'm thinking of different options I haven't experienced at all:

- using Neopan 1600
- shooting with a Delta 3200 @ 1600
- pushing a Neopan 400 or an APX 400 @ 1600

What do you suggest, and why?
Many thanks in advance,
Marc

PS: it's weird there's no dedicated place for film talks in RFF (maybe I've just missed it).

 

[bobomoon]

I wouldn't push the APX 400 if you're looking to get away from grain. Go for the neopan or tri-x.

 

[Carrotblog]

As Bobo says - the Neopan 1600 is smooth for a 1600 ISO film and works very well in HC110 or Microphen.

Why? Smooth contrast control, smooth tonality and minimal grain intrusion.

The Delta 3200 is more low contrast and globular in grain! Not keen on it for that reason. In 35mm format, it's not ideal for my preferred enlargement size (12" or over).

APX400 has never pushed very well for me. Needs more carrot juice in the developer to even work it. Maybe someone with better developer experience can step in?

xoxoxoxoxo

Miffy

http://carrotblog.livejournal.com

 

[Crasis]

Since you're talking about B&W films, I'll stick with those.

Delta 3200 I really dislike for grain size, acutance and a very muddy tonality.
Neopan 1600 is the opposite extreme and I dislike that the same. The highlights are near uncontrollable when shot at 1600.

HP5 pushes well, but huge grain, and T-Max is just a horrid film.

Tri-X 400 pushes amazingly in X-Tol to 1600.
Delta 400 also pushes amazingly well in DD-X to 1600.

My preference is for the Delta 400 since it has an edge in tonality in the mid grays and an edge in acutance.