Paper or Film?

Hi everyone,

I have been lurking for about a month now, and thought I
would start to get involved. I am a rank amateur compared to
the rest of you, so pardon my ignorance with pinholing.

I am a high school science teacher, all female catholic
school. Some students know my interest in photography and
have used their feminine powers to persuade me to head a
photo club. I though making a pinhole camera would be a nice
start. I have seen plans and other details on the web meant
for 5th graders, but thought that they would enjoy it too.

My question: What is the main advantages/disadvantages of
using film vs paper negatives? I know that paper would
normally have a much longer exposure time, but is that the
only disadvantage of the paper negative? I am wondering if
the tonal range is too compressed or something else I am not
aware of? ( I am also familiar with the relative
difficulties in developing paper and film).

Also, why is 4x5 the preferred size? I would have thought
5x7 would be popular, but it does not seem that way from my
preliminary investigations. Especially with the paper
negatives--the paper is very common in this size.

I have a darkroom at home and am aware of basic techniques so
share your opinions with confidence!

BTW, I bought a ROUND Altoid tin the other day (curiously
sour lemon candy) and am about to try a round paper negative
for my first crack at this genre. Seemed like a natural. I
am thinking of taking some pinhole photos of things with
arches, that are basically round, and with the round
negative, well, it appeals to me.

I have really enjoyed all of the photos I have seen that
everyone has taken so far.

Thanks for your time, folks

Dave

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Received on Wed Oct 2 18:59:27 2002