If you and I have happened to cross paths in the past 3 days, then it is likely that you have heard the latest excitement in my life. For the rest of you, I will provide the detailed story.
In a recent visit to the Antique Store near me, I came to acquire an old Instamatic Camera. But not just any Instamatic Camera. This Instamatic camera had a role of film in it— a role of film with six exposures already taken.
Who took these six pictures? WHAT were these six pictures? Where were these six pictures taken? What YEAR were these six pictures from? Just a few of the questions that had to have an answer.
Needless to say, my decision was quickly made that this camera, and particularly, this role of film would have to be mine.
And so began the process of developing this hidden mystery. The development process of this film was an arduous one to say the least. The small 110 size allowed for ABSOLUTELY ZERO available reels to fit it, and the tightly wound film was adamant in keeping it’s spring-like curl, leaving me only one option.
TRAY DEVELOPING.
I would like to take this moment to mention that this Gold 200 Film required a C41 color process. Which basically means that the consistent 95°F chemical temperature throughout the entire process was vital. For those familiar with film development, you also know that the film must be in COMPLETE DARKNESS until after the final wash.
You can imagine my agility and grace in the measurement of chemicals, washing of the film, and general movement about the pitch-black room for the following 45 minutes.
Nevertheless, with the help of a small red tray, film holders (better known as my fingers) an obnoxiously loud timer, and the wonderful heat-retaining water tank called a JOBO, I emerged from the blackness with high hopes.
The initial analysis of this precious film provided nothing but dense, detail-less black. Which was mildly devastating, yet understandable considering the film’s potential age. In frustration, I allowed it to wash a bit more and then left it to dry while I put my time towards less fruitless tasks (like taking a final exam).
When I returned, I hesitantly decided to give it a second look with the hopes of finding any slightest bit of detail. To any nearby observer, my reaction at this moment would be described as no less than pure elation as what looked to me like two people were just barely visible in the murky blackish-green strip.
I quickly found myself at a scanner, seeing for my very eyes the thrilling results on my computer screen. What you see before you are the black and white converted scans from this epic film! Only four of these exposures came out. I have absolutely no idea who these people are or when these photos were taken, but one of these days if I finish with finals, papers, projects, and job searching, I hope to pursue this story a bit further!
If you read this elaborate story all the way through, congratulations and thank you.