CC filters again

I noticed on this thread (http://www.wetpixel.com/PNphpBB2-viewtopic-t-7154-highlight-filter.phtml) that filters can be useful to correct the green colour balance of water in temperate marine environments. I gather that a 50CC or fluorescent filter might be the way to go?? :?

I realise this is the digi forum, but I thought you guys would be most likely to know as I've read a number of threads about using filters here. I want to use it on a film camera. :shock:

Now I know this is a bit heretical, but is there any value in doing this? I will be able to do a little colour balancing in PS after scanning the images. Is it worth going down this path, or is it just a waste of time.

I will be getting a digi in the near future (prob after PMA), but at the moment I'd like some direction on this route for film.

Finally, what complementary colour filter should I try on the strobe - if any.

Thanks gurus!

Complementary filters are used to change the color balance of the background without altering the subject. It is not more useful with digital than with film although the instant feedback of digital helps you get your exposures right. Wide angle shooting with film is tougher and I think that discourages shooters from trying new techniques.

For altering green in backgrounds you should try 30-50CC of magenta on your lens and an equal strength green filter on your strobes.

Thanks very much Craig!

I was hoping you would pop up

I'm pleased to hear that it might be worth trying CC filters with film. I agree about the exposure difficulties, but I'm willing to give it a shot and see how I go.

Now all I have to do is order the filters

The CC filter will have a rating for how much light you lose, say 1 stop. Your strobe will lose that much power so you will need to adjust. Generally speaking, you will open up your aperture to compensate for strobe loss and the background exposure will get fixed automatically. Otherwise you can up your strobe power a stop and slow your shutter speed one stop. Of course, metering the background will continue to work. Depends on how you shoot, but the key thing is that the strobe loses power, the background exposure is likewise darker, and the foreground exposure is darker by the amount or the strobe. Foregound exposure is not darker by double the filter strength even though two filters are involved. Hope that makes sense.