“Pushing” and “pulling” film in a 35mm analog film camera refer to the process of adjusting the film’s ISO rating during development. ISO, or International Organization for Standardization, rating is a measure of a film’s sensitivity to light. A higher ISO rating means the film is more sensitive to light and requires less exposure time to produce an image, while a lower ISO rating means the film is less sensitive to light and requires more exposure time to produce an image.
In traditional film photography, the ISO rating is determined by the type of film being used, and the film can not be changed once it is loaded into the camera. However, some photographers have discovered that by adjusting the development time of the film, they can effectively change the ISO rating and alter the final image. This process is known as “pushing” or “pulling” the film.
When “pushing” the film, the photographer increases the development time, effectively making the film more sensitive to light and increasing the ISO rating. This technique is useful in low-light situations where a longer exposure time is required to produce a properly exposed image. By “pushing” the film, the photographer can capture the image with a shorter exposure time, reducing the risk of camera shake and producing a clearer image.
On the other hand, “pulling” the film involves decreasing the development time, effectively making the film less sensitive to light and decreasing the ISO rating. This technique is useful in high-light situations where a shorter exposure time is required to prevent overexposure. By “pulling” the film, the photographer can reduce the amount of light that reaches the film, producing a properly exposed image.
It is important to note that “pushing” and “pulling” film can have a significant impact on the final image, and should be used with caution. Pushed film may exhibit increased graininess, decreased sharpness, and reduced color saturation, while pulled film may exhibit decreased graininess, increased sharpness, and increased color saturation.
In conclusion, “pushing” and “pulling” film in a 35mm analog film camera is a technique that allows the photographer to adjust the film’s ISO rating during development, effectively changing the final image. This technique can be useful in both low-light and high-light situations, but should be used with caution as it can have a significant impact on the final image. (Source: “The Beginner’s Guide to Pushing and Pulling Film” by Dan Bailey, Outdoor Photographer, May 21, 2021)
