How do Provia 100F and Astia 100 compare in terms of sharpness, saturation, and grain? Paul Stenquist
Paul, The current RDPIII/Provia 100F has less contrast and saturation than RVP Velvia 50, but the grain is as fine as the slower Velvia. RAP/Astia is balanced for flesh tones and is an excellent all-around color slide film showing less saturation and contrast than Provia 100F. Grain is a bit more coarse than Provia but should not be a problem under 16X20 enlargements from 35mm. Sensia 100/RA is said to be Astia sold at a lower price as an "amateur film". Sensia 200/RM is altogether , IMO, inferior to any of the aforementioned films. As a practical matter, in my experience, Astia lets you retain some shadow detail in shots that would have black shadows on Velvia or Provia and is a good portrait film. Bill Lawlor
