Laser pointer shined on photographic film?

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SUMMARY

Shining a laser pointer on highly sensitive photographic film, such as ASA 800, will indeed expose the film due to the intensity of the laser light. Standard photographic film, even those used in disposable cameras, is sensitive enough to register the photons emitted by a laser. However, for less blurred results, using black and white printing paper is recommended, as it is less sensitive and allows for controlled exposure under safe lighting conditions. The discussion emphasizes that the brightness of laser pointers can lead to significant overexposure, which should be a primary concern when experimenting with film exposure.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of photographic film sensitivity (e.g., ASA 800)
  • Knowledge of exposure techniques in photography
  • Familiarity with laser pointer specifications and safety
  • Basic principles of light and its interaction with photographic materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the effects of laser exposure on different types of photographic film
  • Learn about controlled exposure techniques using black and white printing paper
  • Explore the safety measures when using laser pointers in photography
  • Investigate the characteristics of orthochromatic and panchromatic films
USEFUL FOR

Photographers, hobbyists experimenting with film exposure, and anyone interested in the effects of laser light on photographic materials will benefit from this discussion.

Edgewood11
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What would happen if I bought highly sensitive photographic film such as ASA 800 and shined a laser pointer on it? When I get it developed will the photons that the laser emitted show up on the film?
 
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It would expose any ISO of film, sensitive or no.

It's light!
 
I guess early orthochromatic films would not get exposed by red lasers.
 
Because I'm talking about just standard film you would put in an old throw away camera. I didn't think that kind of film was that sensitive.
 
Far too sensitive, I should say. You would be better to use cheapo black and white printing paper which is much less sensitive and you will get a much less 'blurred' result. You can then expose and develop one sheet at a time (under a safe lamp, too - so you can see how you're doing) until you get a pleasing result. Sign your name with it.
Photo graphy = writing with light
 
Edgewood11 said:
Because I'm talking about just standard film you would put in an old throw away camera. I didn't think that kind of film was that sensitive.

:confusion: Why do you think the film would have to be particularly sensitive to be exposed by laser light? Lasers tend to be very bright, as evidenced by the fact that even the smallest of them can temporarily blind you if flashed at your eyes for a moment, and less small ones can cause permanent eye damage.
 
Are you color blind, by any chance? I've got no idea how a red laser pointer might appear to someone without functioning red cones (protanopia), but this is the only thing I can think of that would lead to such a question.

Even relatively insensitive films have to be handled under dim (usually red) light and kept in complete darkness when not being worked with. Laser pointers are bright, that's why they're used to point things out. You should be wondering what the effects of such massive overexposure might be, not whether the film is sensitive enough.
 

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