When it comes to black and white film photography, Ilford HP5 Plus stands out as a versatile and forgiving film that offers photographers an incredible latitude for experimentation. Traditionally rated at ISO 400, this film is renowned for its ability to be pushed to higher sensitivities like 800 and 1600 ISO, making it an excellent choice for photographers looking to adapt to various lighting conditions without switching film stocks. Let’s delve into the art of pushing HP5 Plus, why photographers choose to push film, and how it impacts the negatives and final prints.
Why Shoot HP5 Plus at 800 or 1600 ISO?
Choosing to shoot Ilford HP5 Plus at 800 or 1600 ISO is a deliberate decision often driven by the need for speed. In low light conditions, a faster shutter speed is required to capture sharp images without motion blur. By rating the film at a higher ISO, photographers can effectively shoot in dimmer environments or capture fast-moving subjects with ease.
Additionally, pushing film is not just a technical decision; it’s an artistic one. The higher contrast and pronounced grain structure achieved by pushing HP5 Plus can add a dramatic and gritty character to the images that many photographers find appealing. It’s a look that’s distinctly “filmic” and often sought after in street photography and documentary work.
The Impact on Negatives and Prints
When HP5 Plus is shot at 800 or 1600 ISO, it is underexposed by one or two stops, respectively. This underexposure means that the film receives half (at 800 ISO) or a quarter (at 1600 ISO) of the light it would at its box speed. The resulting negatives are inherently denser and require an adjustment during processing – typically referred to as push processing.
Push processing involves developing the film for a longer period, increasing the development temperature, or using a more concentrated developer to amplify the latent image on the underexposed film. The result is a negative that, while denser than one exposed at box speed, can still yield a usable print.
However, this compensation is not without consequence. Pushing film enhances contrast, which can lead to loss of detail in shadows and highlights. The grain also becomes more pronounced, giving the image a rougher texture. While some might view this as a drawback, others may see it as an enhancement of the film’s aesthetic quality.
Processing Film Shot at Higher ISOs
Processing HP5 Plus that has been shot at 800 or 1600 ISO is a task that requires some precision. Labs or individuals developing at home will usually extend the development time to compensate for the underexposure. For instance, when using Ilford Ilfotec DD-X developer at a 1+4 dilution, HP5 Plus shot at box speed (400 ISO) needs to be developed for 9 minutes at 20C. If pushed one stop (shot at 800 ISO), the development time needs to be increased to 10 minutes. If pushed two stops (shot at 1600 ISO), the time needed is 13 minutes. It’s essential to consult Ilford’s development chart or the Massive Dev Chart for specific times and temperatures, as development will vary based on the chemicals and methods used.
Why HP5 Plus Is Ideal for Pushing
Ilford HP5 Plus is a prime candidate for pushing because of its wide exposure latitude and forgiving nature. It is a film with a fine grain structure for its speed, which allows it to retain acceptable grain levels even when pushed. Furthermore, its robust emulsion can handle the stress of underexposure and overdevelopment without a significant loss in image quality.
The film’s flexible nature is also evident in its tonal range. Even when pushed, HP5 Plus can render a broad spectrum of greys, maintaining a good level of detail in both the shadows and the highlights, which is not always the case with other films.
Additionally, HP5 Plus has a classic grain structure that adds to the photographic aesthetic without overwhelming the image. When pushed to 800 or 1600 ISO, the grain becomes more apparent, but it does so in a way that adds texture and depth to the photograph rather than detracting from it.
Conclusion
Shooting Ilford HP5 Plus at 800 or 1600 ISO is a testament to the creative and adaptable spirit of film photography. This technique allows photographers to keep shooting in varied lighting conditions without having to change their film. It also offers an artistic effect that can bring a unique, impactful look to the images.
The ability of HP5 Plus to be pushed effectively makes it a beloved choice among photographers who value flexibility and the particular aesthetic that comes with higher ISOs. Whether you’re looking to capture the energy of a dimly lit street scene or the intimate ambience of a candlelit room, pushing HP5 Plus can help you achieve remarkable results. Remember that pushing film is as much about embracing imperfections and the intrinsic qualities of the medium as it is about capturing light. So load up a roll of HP5 Plus, set your ISO to 800 or 1600, and step into the rich world of pushed film photography.