What is the best film speed for enlarging photographs??

Question

When I say enlarging photos, I mean like blowing up a picture to bigger than usual like 48''x36''. Is it better to go with a smaller film speed for that? and why?

Answer 1

At 48"x36", you had better start with a tack sharp image from 35mm. That size is rather pushing the envelope for 35mm film.
Generally, slower films have smaller grain than faster film. Also, any underexposed areas will have larger grain. Negative film benefits from a small amount of overexposure. So use ISO 100 and overexpose by 1/3 to 1/2 stop and use a tripod with cable release.

Answer 2

Generally lower would be better since higher speeds will have more grain and this grain will become more noticible in the enlargement. However, keep in mind - grain can serve a purpose and different films have different qualities, so this rule is indeed very general. ASA 100-400 should work fine (48 x 36 is large - but not that large assuming you are talking 35 mm or bigger here and have a decent high quality negative to start with).

Answer 3

No matter what you do, use a large format film. A 35mm negative will look very grainy at that size. Ive done 18x20 enlargements with a 35mm negative and they turn out alright, but when you start getting higher then that there is more of a problem with the grain. Using a slower film speed would make for a better enlargement. Maybe around 100 or less. Be very careful with the enlargement. Just a precaution/warning.

Answer 4

Simple answer.... The lower the ASA that the light level and speed can handle. As a general rule lower ASA films have much finer detail capability. Of-course you need to remember, lower ASA also means the camera must be held firmer (stiller) i.e. tripod...

Answer 5

merely use a slower action picture as a exchange of enhancing your chemical compounds. Kodak Ektar a hundred, Kodak Gold a hundred, and Fuji Reala a hundred are all sluggish velocity a hundred C-40-one videos with good grain. while you're keen to flow E-6, Fuji Velvia(I especially advise this for panorama use), Fuji Provia, and Kodak Ektachrome all have low grain.

Answer 6

So long you have sharpest images for the photos, any types of film speeds or photography papers would give the best qualities.

Answer 7

I don't think you are going to get a 36x48 out of a 35mm neg even considering the varieties of ISOs there are. If you could shoot a 6cmx6cm, or a 6cmx7cm, your chances are excellent that you can do that.