Recently, I told you of a roll of color slide film that was acquired in Billings, Montana. (see story here: http://kateriphoto.wordpress.com/2010/08/17/billings-mt/)
Kodachrome was the first professional color film, which became available in 1935. It was the film of choice for professional photographers working for publications such as National Geographic. Kodachrome 25 was discontinued in 2002, and most labs have since ceased to process it, due to the fact that it requires K-14 chemical processing (as opposed to the more common E-6 or C-41)
My film had expired in 1986, so I was not quite sure what to expect, in terms of exposure, or even if someone could develop it. Turns out there is lab in Kansas that can process it, but they will no longer offer this service starting in December of this year. I believe they are the only company in the country that can develop K-14, so if you happen to have any K25 laying around, act now!
Here is the outcome of that very special film. While the color is funky and kind of off, and they are in no way “sharp”, I like these photographs, not so much because of what is in the frame, but because of how I came about this rare film, and the experience of shooting it. It is the elements of surprise and sentimental associations that can make photography an exciting pursuit.
I like.. the color cast and contrast is really unique!