Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2003/07/16

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Subject: Re: [Leica] Leica vs. Digital: Our divided loyalties
From: "Jim Laurel" <jplaurel@nwlink.com>
Date: Wed, 16 Jul 2003 20:07:31 -0700
References: <2867578BB7767E45B3C9E3CBA9C5A65F13F02D@smskpexmbx3.mskcc.root.mskcc.org>

Unfortunately, Chris, I think we will see a point at which the mediums are
mutually exclusive.  More accurately, the time will come when the majority
of the photo market, which consists mostly of people who couldn't take a
decent picture if they tried, fully embraces digital to the point that a
profit can no longer be made producing film and chemistry.

The good news is that the major film manufacturers have, even recently, been
investing in new emulsions.  The equipment used to produce film and process
it will need to be depreciated.  That will take time, so I can see film
being around for a while yet.  As demand wanes and production decreases,
film prices will rise.  I'm doubtful that Fuji, Kodak, or Agfa will continue
to pour R&D resources into film technology going forward.  However, I do see
black and white film emulsions and developer remaining on the scene for
many, many years to come.  Black and white film technology is relatively
simple as compared to film, and I can see how it could be produced in small
quantities by small niche companies, long after the big three have abandoned
the market.  Producing black and white film and developers doesn't require
the kind of investments that things like Ektachrome do.

You touch on this in your post, but allow me to clarify the point further.
In say, 10 years, when the majority of the photo marketplace is digital,
well crafted photographs created using traditional film will stand out.
They will simply look different and people will notice.  Even today, there
has been a resurgence in interest in black and white photography.  In 2020,
when you show someone an 18 year old a beautiful 20x24 B&W print that you
created in your darkroom, they will see the enduring value in it.  That's
why I have no hesitation about building the new b&w darkroom into our house
as a part of the upcoming remodel.

- --Jim


Chris Saganich wrote:
> There is no sense arguing if apples or oranges are better.  These are two
separate and different mediums which are not mutually exclusive.  Look what
photography did for painting - specialization.  Similarly digital will cause
specialization in film photography.  I happen to think this is a good thing
for artists but bad for folks trying to eek out a freelance living.  The
real kicker is the expense, much of it is hidden.  Once your over the cliff
gravity takes over.
> Chris Saganich

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Replies: Reply from "Greg J. Lorenzo" <gregj.lorenzo@shaw.ca> (Re: [Leica] Leica vs. Digital: Our divided loyalties)
In reply to: Message from "Saganich, Christopher/Medical Physics" <saganicc@MSKCC.ORG> (RE: [Leica] Leica vs. Digital: Our divided loyalties)