My first proper photography class was at San Diego City College, an “intro to black and white photography” 100 level course. It challenged me to learn all the nuance of using black and white film, taught me to use light as my partner, and forced me to push through creative blocks. I also started seeing images in black and white. I would look through my viewfinder and suddenly the world was in grayscale. I love returning to black and white film for this reason. I recently acquired a roll of Street Candy ATM 400 while participating in the Tandem Coffee Double Exposure Film and Camera Club, which is one of the best things to happen in 2020.
Street Candy is a hand-rolled black and white film that was re-purposed from old atm security cameras. I love trying out film that has been repurposed in this way because I love the environmental aspect of taking something that was meant for another purpose, would otherwise be wasted, and using it to make something else.
I didn’t know what to expect from the clarity of the film. The times that I have seen atm footage it appears pretty dull and grainy and I was worried that the grain would be distracting, or that the results would be dull, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that was not the case. I set my iso rate at 400, though it is suggested to rate at 320 if you are in incandescent light. The contrast is rich and the grain, while present, gives a velvety texture. I was able to achieve crisp, clear exposures. I am so pleased with the results of this film and hope to get my hands on some more.
Originally published in 2020.
