How do I photograph a computer screen with a Nikon F3 without overexposing it?
Asked 5/30/2017
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I’m shooting a thesis project on 35mm film with a Nikon F3 and want to photograph a computer screen. My idea is to work in a dark room and use the screen as the main light source. Will that preserve the detail and colors on the screen, or is there a risk of overexposing it? I’m also wondering whether a 24mm lens is a good choice, or if another focal length would work better.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
9y ago
2 Answers
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If you really have to, I suggest:
Dark room will reduce reflections. Ideal if image of screen must fill the 35mm film frame. Note that screen will illuminate anything in front, e.g. camera and photographer, which will reflect on screen as well. Wear black to avoid this.
Shoot first with a digital Nikon SLR with same lens to confirm exposure, before switching to film camera. Remember to use same ISO and do not use Auto ISO.
I had success shooting off a computer screen years ago using Nikon 55mm f2.8 Micro Nikkor.
Originally by user63573. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user63573
9y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Yes, it’s possible, but treat the screen as a very bright subject in a dark scene. Work in a dark room to reduce reflections, and wear dark clothing because the screen can reflect the camera and photographer back into the shot.
For exposure, don’t rely blindly on the overall camera meter. Meter the screen itself as accurately as you can—ideally with a spot meter, or by metering a mid-gray image displayed on the monitor. A tripod is recommended, and using a slower shutter speed can help avoid screen flicker.
A good workflow is to test first with a digital camera using the same lens and ISO so you can preview the result before shooting film. Make sure Auto ISO is off.
Also keep dynamic range in mind: if you expose the screen correctly, the surroundings will likely go much darker than they appear to your eyes.
As for lenses, a 24mm can work if you want the whole setup or need to shoot close, but a normal or macro lens may give cleaner results if the screen is meant to fill the frame. One respondent specifically had good results with a 55mm Micro-Nikkor.
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