Project X19: Photo Journal
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Photo Shoot 1: 2/20/04
See the data table for the first shoot
We began by setting up our
equipment. (see Method and Setup section).
The flash unit was powered using AC adaptors, allowing for
continuous usage of the flashes. The
auto-thyristor on the flash unit was used after initial usage of a
variable resistor proved harmful to the image quality. Once the backdrop
and setup were in place, we fired several test shots to capture the BB in
the images/field of view. We
had initial difficulties in capturing images due to underestimating the
extent of shutter lag under the low-light conditions.
We refined the f-stop and focus as we went along, and were able to capture fairly clear photographs (see Gallery section). We switched to an edge-on perpendicular view as it provided a better overall feel for the shape of the collision. We also used colored flash filters, which resulted in some of our best images. However, thermal noise was an issue due to the length of the exposure. Good pictures were captured, but room was left for improvement.
This was our first shoot,
and it produced many intriguing photographs, which can be seen in the
photo gallery.
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This was how our setup looked throughout the project. Note the delay and triggering systems in the foreground and the large amounts of tape needed to secure the heavy backdrop. Also, note the mounting of the gun and the use of textbooks to adjust the height of the subject and trap. |
Photo Shoot 2: 2/25/04
See the data table for the second shoot
We began by setting up our
equipment as we did in the first shoot. (see Method and Setup section).
The flash unit was powered using AC adaptors, allowing for
continuous usage of the flashes. A
variable resistor set to the absolute minimum turned out to be the best
method of setting the flash duration. Once the backdrop and setup were in
place, we took several test images using no ammunition.
Many of these turned out blank, as our lack of a target led to
pictures taken of nothing but a black backdrop.
This caused confusion, until a test object (vice-grips) was used to
align and set up the shots.
We were able to reduce
thermal noise by cutting the shutter speed to 1/2 second, and the f-stop
was changed from 6.4 to 6.3. Otherwise,
settings were the same as in the previous shoot.
This was our second shoot,
and it produced many good photographs,
although regrettably not as many as we had hoped.
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The
second shoot was plagued by problems with focus. |
However,
many excellent photos resulted. |
