For the Canon Rebel S2, a versatile camera body, the “best” 35mm film is subjective and depends on the photographer’s artistic vision, intended use, and budget. However, for a balanced combination of image quality, availability, and ease of use, Kodak Gold 200 is a fantastic starting point and often proves to be an excellent choice.
Understanding Film Choice for the Canon Rebel S2
The Canon Rebel S2, like all SLR cameras, provides a mechanical and optical experience vastly different from digital photography. Choosing the right film is crucial to maximizing the camera’s potential and achieving desired aesthetic results. Several factors influence this decision, including film speed (ISO), color vs. black and white, grain, contrast, and saturation. Understanding these characteristics allows you to tailor your film selection to specific shooting scenarios and creative goals. The camera’s built-in light meter will greatly assist in getting proper exposures with your film selection.
Recommended Film Stocks
Beyond Kodak Gold 200, several other film stocks are highly recommended for the Canon Rebel S2, each offering a distinct look and feel.
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For Vibrant Colors and Fine Grain: Kodak Portra 400 excels in capturing skin tones beautifully, making it ideal for portraits and general photography. Its fine grain and versatility across different lighting conditions are significant advantages.
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For High Contrast and Sharpness: Fujifilm Velvia 50 is a slide film known for its intense colors and sharpness. While it requires precise exposure, the results are stunning for landscape and nature photography. Note that processing slide film (E-6) is often more expensive and less readily available than C-41 color negative processing.
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For Black and White Photography: Ilford HP5 Plus 400 is a classic black and white film offering excellent tonality and flexibility. It’s forgiving in exposure and pushes well, making it suitable for various subjects and lighting conditions. Another excellent option is Kodak Tri-X 400, known for its distinctive grain and classic look.
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For Low Light Shooting: Kodak Portra 800 or Cinestill 800T are excellent choices. Portra 800 provides good colors and fine grain even in low light. Cinestill 800T, a modified motion picture film, produces a unique halo effect around bright light sources, creating a cinematic feel. However, bear in mind that using CineStill might necessitate modifications to the camera or film canister.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Film
Selecting the right film goes beyond brand and ISO. Consider these factors:
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Lighting Conditions: Bright sunlight favors slower films (ISO 100-200), while low-light situations demand faster films (ISO 400 and higher).
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Subject Matter: Portraits often benefit from films with pleasing skin tones, while landscapes might call for films with high sharpness and vibrant colors.
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Desired Aesthetic: Grain, contrast, and color saturation all contribute to the overall look of your photos. Experiment to find your preferred style.
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Budget: Film prices vary considerably. Consider the cost per roll and processing fees. Black and white film is generally cheaper to develop at home than color film.
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Availability: Some films are more widely available than others. Ensure your chosen film is readily accessible and that you have access to processing services.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: What is the difference between ISO 100 and ISO 400 film?
ISO (International Organization for Standardization) represents the film’s sensitivity to light. ISO 100 film is less sensitive, requiring more light for proper exposure, resulting in finer grain and sharper images. ISO 400 film is more sensitive, ideal for lower light conditions or faster shutter speeds, but typically exhibits more grain.
FAQ 2: Can I use expired film in my Canon Rebel S2?
Yes, you can use expired film, but expect unpredictable results. Expired film often loses sensitivity and can exhibit color shifts or increased grain. Overexposing by one stop per decade since expiration is a common practice to compensate for the loss of sensitivity. However, the results are always a gamble.
FAQ 3: What does “pushing” film mean, and when should I do it?
Pushing film involves intentionally underexposing the film during shooting and then extending the development time to compensate. This increases the film’s effective ISO. For example, pushing ISO 400 film to ISO 800. You might push film in low-light situations where you need a faster shutter speed or smaller aperture.
FAQ 4: What is the best way to store unused film?
Store unused film in a cool, dry place, preferably in the refrigerator (not the freezer) to prolong its shelf life. Avoid exposing film to extreme temperatures or humidity.
FAQ 5: What are the different types of film processing (C-41, E-6, B&W)?
C-41 is the standard color negative film processing method. E-6 is used for slide film (also known as transparency or reversal film). Black and white film processing varies depending on the film type and developer used. Each process yields different results and requires specific chemicals and equipment.
FAQ 6: How do I load film into my Canon Rebel S2?
Open the film door on the back of the camera. Insert the film canister into the film chamber. Pull the film leader across the camera and insert it into the take-up spool. Advance the film using the film advance lever or winder knob until the film is securely attached. Close the film door. Advance the film a few more times until the frame counter reaches “1”.
FAQ 7: What is the “sunny 16” rule, and how can it help me?
The “sunny 16” rule is a guideline for estimating correct exposure without a light meter. On a sunny day, set your aperture to f/16 and your shutter speed to the reciprocal of your film’s ISO (e.g., ISO 100 = 1/100 second). This rule is a useful backup if your camera’s light meter fails or if you want to practice estimating exposure.
FAQ 8: How do I rewind film in my Canon Rebel S2?
After shooting the last frame on your roll, press the film rewind button on the bottom of the camera (if present, as some models are automatic). Then, use the film rewind crank (on manual rewind models) to rewind the film back into the canister. Listen carefully for the film leader to detach from the take-up spool before opening the film door. For automatic rewind models, the camera will usually rewind the film automatically.
FAQ 9: Can I develop black and white film at home?
Yes, developing black and white film at home is relatively straightforward and affordable. You’ll need a darkroom (or a light-tight changing bag), developing chemicals (developer, stop bath, fixer), tanks, reels, and other basic equipment. Numerous online resources and tutorials provide step-by-step instructions.
FAQ 10: What is the best film scanner for digitizing my photos taken with the Canon Rebel S2?
The “best” film scanner depends on your budget and desired image quality. Entry-level flatbed scanners like the Epson V600 offer decent results for general use. Dedicated film scanners like the Plustek OpticFilm series provide superior image quality and sharpness but are more expensive.
FAQ 11: How can I achieve shallow depth of field with film photography on my Canon Rebel S2?
To achieve a shallow depth of field (blurry background), use a wide aperture (low f-number, like f/2.8 or f/1.8). Also, position your subject closer to the camera and increase the distance between the subject and the background. Choose film with a lower ISO if light conditions allow for these settings.
FAQ 12: Are there any focusing screens I can change to improve the focusing experience with manual lenses on the Rebel S2?
Yes, some Canon Rebel S2 models allow for interchangeable focusing screens. You can replace the standard screen with a split-image or microprism focusing screen to aid in accurate focusing with manual lenses. These screens make it easier to visually confirm focus, especially in challenging lighting conditions.