John:
I spent some time underground as a geologist and occasional photographer. Thing
to remember underground is there is NO ambient light. It's a whole new
experience in blackness. You're entirely dependent on artificial light. In
metal mines, there is not the explosion risk and I had no difficulty with
flash, unless there's spray or dust in the air (another story).
FWIW, you can use electrical equipment in coal mines, though such equipment has
to be certified accordingly (flameproof). If the underground workings are part
of a musuem and open to the public, then they should be well ventilated. Are
you certain that you cannot take down ANY electronic cameras? Quite frankly,
unless you're in extremely well lit workings (e.g., an underground garage) I
doubt there'd be enough light for any non-flash photography (and you'd need a
tripod).
I remember taking pictures underground in the Cape Breton mining museum lots of
years ago. These were very shallow, but I was able to use flash.
My 2¢ (1p) worth.
Martin
-----Original Message-----
From: olympus-owner@xxxxxxxxxx [mailto:olympus-owner@xxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of
JOHN DUGGAN
Sent: Wednesday, October 10, 2007 11:54 AM
To: olympus@xxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [OM] Low light photography
Hi all. Some totally on topic advice needed :-)
In a few weeks I have the opportunity to take photo's in a mining museum.
There is no problem regarding above ground photography It is encouraged and it
is a half hour drive to repeat photo's as many times as I need to get the
results I am looking for. (digital and film) and admission to all museums is
free.
The icing on the cake is that I have been given permission to take
photographs underground (this is VERY rarely given...I have been trying to get
this for years)
Even as a mining museum it comes under various mines and factories acts.
This means that No batteries or electrical equipment is allowed undeground
(explosion risk) "wind up" mechanical watches only.
This means obviously no digital cameras, No elecrically dependant 35mm film
cameras. No metering systems no flash...and of course very little light
underground.
How do you take a photo of a black cat in a coal cellar?
First ideas.. OM1n or OM3 or Leica M6..batteries removed. 24, 28 or 35mm
lens.
Tripod, fast film..but how fast? Black + white
At pit bottom, and various places underground there is a low level of
electric light..and of course I will have an electric head lamp - as will my
guide.
I intend taking a few Guided trips underground first to try to spot possible
photographic opportunities before hand but any ideas or advice will be
gratefully appreciated....I might only have one opportunity for this.
Regards
John Duggan,
Wales, UK
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