For this installment of Artist in Residence, we check in with one of our favorite photographers, Chloe Aftel, who shot our new Pioneer test version of the 8×10 Impossible film. Her photos are on view in the Impossible Project NYC Space until September 24th, as part of the 8×10 by Impossible exhibition.
“I was very excited to test the new 8×10 film, as I’d only shot 4×5 before. I’ve used Impossible films a lot, but wasn’t sure how such a large positive would handle light and if the blacks and whites would hold or shift.
I know most people use an 8×10 in studio because it’s so unwieldy, so I thought I’d take it on location to see what would happen. I knew a few wooded areas of San Francisco and there’s a model I love working with, Erin, who generously posed for me. I wanted someone striking and with her gap teeth and incredible hair, Erin seemed the perfect fit. She shoots a lot herself and is a pleasure to work with, she also doesn’t mind experimenting, which is half the fun of using instant film.
I was surprised by the degree to which I fell in love with the film. The creamy tones and detail of the image was impressive. I could see so much more and I cannot wait to shoot with it again.
Shooting on location was tough, as the camera is a beast and lugging it around is challenging. That being said, it was such a joy to see a natural environment on that quality of large format film. The way it handles light is gorgeous, some spots were terribly bright but didn’t blow out. The blacks were rich but overwhelming.
The only trouble I had was with double exposures, but I think it can be solved with more effort. It was such a pleasure to try a new product that already performs well. I have been a fan of spectra and sx-70 film for years, but this experience made a convert of me.”
These are fabulous. Chloe is fabulous.