4:00 “Thanks to everyone who chimed in [and offered advice]. That’s one of the main things I love about the *film* photography community. It tends to be supportive. People want to help each other, explain things to each other, make them better. It’s not super competitive like other parts of the photography community. So I love that. Thanks to everyone who chimed in.”

 

BGWG #5: Lessons Learned on New55 & Willett Rye Whiskey

Oct 20, 2019

Table of Contents:

– The whiskey (0:46)

– New55 discussion (2:55)

– New55 Tips (4:48)

– How New55 works (9:13)

– What I did wrong (15:49)

– New pictures! (20:20)

In my most recent on-location video I ventured out to the desert to try my hand at New55 film (see the video here: https://youtu.be/fV0sI2Ck77Y). You might say I ran into a few speed bumps. Aside from the rookie mistakes that slipped through my fingers, I didn’t get great results with the prints.

But guess what, folks. I’ve learned a lot since then. I received many helpful comments on the video from viewers explaining why they think the prints didn’t come out great, I’ve done some research, I’ve exposed some more film, and most helpful of all, Sam Hiser over at New55 reached out to me with some pointers on how to get better prints.

And so in this edition of Behind the Glass With a Glass I’ll be discussing what I’ve learned, passing along a few tips, and sharing some new photos I took utilizing my newfound knowledge. Oh, and of course I’ll be sipping a fine spirit while I’m at it.

My beverage of choice here is a 4-year rye whiskey from the Willett Distillery in Kentucky (https://www.kentuckybourbonwhiskey.co…). It’s currently my second-favorite rye – only Whistle Pig surpasses it – and it’s my go-to whiskey for when I want something juuuuust shy of special occasion whiskey. For when I’m celebrating a day of hard work or a job well done, this is what I’m grabbing. It’s a fine addition to any bar cart.

Now I know New55 isn’t for everyone. It has a distinct look that either works for you or it doesn’t. Personally, I love the look for certain applications, and I’m thrilled to know I can now get good results in both the negative and the print. If this peel apart stuff ain’t your bag, I hope you still find this edition of BGWG entertaining and educational.

One final thing I’d like to point out to anyone comparing New55 to the old Polaroid peel apart film: I understand the temptation to compare the two, but realize that New55 is it’s own thing with its own look and applications. Before the days of digital, Polaroid instant film served a purpose that required a more flawless print and negative. But instant film now serves a different purpose. You get it because of the imperfections, not despite them. And keep in mind, too, that the old Polaroid peel apart film cannot exist in today’s world. The chemistry involved is no longer viable/legal/affordable/etc. I have no doubt Polaroid’s product was superior in some ways, but then again, so was lead paint.

As always, thanks for watching, please drink responsibly, and here’s to you – cheers!

New55 Film: http://www.famousformat.com

Website: https://www.nickcarverphotography.com

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/nickcarver