Ilford HP5+

There were lots of variables in play as I tried out some Ilford HP5 Plus 400 speed black and white film. First, I am still getting used to my meter-less Nikon F camera and second, this is my first roll using a new-to-me Micro-Nikkor 55mm f/3.5 Non-AI lens.

With the F, I am alternating between using my Sekonic L-208 meter and Sunny 16. An article by Gregory Gross on his blog, about photography without a light meter, inspired me to try and use my eyes and my head more in determining exposure. I am enjoying the challenge.

I’ve not shot a lot of Ilford film. Most of my experience is with their FP4 125 speed film. Here’s our dog Jazz, shot Sunny 16 trying to get some treats out of her chew toy.

Our side yard gate:

One evening, a couple of glasses of cab by the fire pit. My Sekonic helped with this shot:

A glass vase on the kitchen table in late afternoon sun, best guess on the exposure.

The pentaprism of a Nikon F:

And the marquee on the theater downtown:

I’ve said for years that I want to really try and get to know one type of black and white film and use it until it becomes second nature. And learning to meter with my head is a good exercise to keep this old brain sharp.

What I really got excited about was this lens. Like the faster f/2.8 AI-s version I have, this lens is a real solid performer.