You can capture much bigger images with 120 film than with 35mm film or 35mm-style digital cameras. The standard negative size for 120 film---depending on the camera---is 2.25-by-2.25 inches. The 35mm negative, because of the perforations to transport the film, only has an image size of about 1.5-by-0.75 inches. The beauty of 120 film is that it can be used in the highest-end medium-format camera ever made---the Hasselblad---and the lowest-end "toy" camera, the Holga.
Instructions
1. Buy a variety of different 120 film rolls. The film is available as color slide, color print and black and white print film. It also is available as black and white film that is developed in color chemicals, namely Kodak's CN and Ilford's XP-2. This may make it easier to get it developed at a nearby color lab, but check to make sure the lab can handle the bigger film size.
2. Load as many film backs as possible ahead of a photo shoot. Medium-format cameras have detachable film backs, most of which have a dark slide to protect the film from exposure when the back is not attached to the camera. Since loading 120 film is the longest part of the process, using multiple backs will speed your shooting. These backs also make it possible to change film types mid-roll. The exception is the Pentax 645. Its film back plugs into the camera with no protection from light mid-roll.
3. Remember that the film frame is much bigger. Move in to take photos of people. Conversely, you can take shots of landscapes and expect to get a lot of detail, even when you blow up the image. For most 35-mm shots, the top range of an enlargement is about 8.5-by-11 inches. You can go bigger with a 2.25-square-inch negative.
4. Take shots of things you normally wouldn't think of, such as close-ups of flowers or birds (you may need a telephoto lens for that) to really get the full effect of 120 film. If you are shooting with a high-end medium-format camera such as a Hasselblad, Bronica, Mamiya or Pentax, take full advantage of the lens. Some of these lenses, particularly for the Hasselblad, are the best optics available, so use them for subjects where clear, crisp detail is necessary.
5. Develop your own film. Famed photographer Ansel Adams used to say half his work was behind the camera and the other half in the darkroom. You can develop your own black and white 120 film without a darkroom---you just need a 120 film reel, 120 film tank and chemicals---and then scan the negatives or slides into your computer. You can use photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop do to the work Adams did with an enlarger.
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