Valokuvafilmien

Valokuvafilmien, often referred to as photographic film, are a transparent strip or sheet material coated on one side with an emulsion containing light-sensitive silver halide crystals. This emulsion reacts when exposed to light, forming a latent image that can then be developed into a visible photograph. Historically, film was the primary medium for capturing still images, predating digital sensors.

The process of creating a photograph on film involves several key stages. First, the film is exposed to light through a camera lens, which focuses the image onto the film's surface. The amount of light and the duration of exposure are controlled by the camera's aperture and shutter speed. Following exposure, the film undergoes a chemical development process. This typically involves a developer solution that converts the exposed silver halide crystals into metallic silver, creating the negative image. Subsequent steps, such as stopping the development, fixing the image to make it permanent and insensitive to further light, and washing to remove residual chemicals, complete the process.

Different types of photographic film exist, varying in their sensitivity to light (ISO speed), color rendition, and grain structure. Black and white film captures images in shades of gray, while color film records a range of colors. Films also differ in their format, from small 35mm rolls to larger sheet films used in medium and large format cameras. While digital photography has largely supplanted film for many applications, film photography remains a niche interest for enthusiasts and professionals who appreciate its unique aesthetic qualities and the tactile nature of the process.