This entry is developed from my notes from several classes that I have taken from Scottsdale Community College, with Rod Klukas as the instructor.  Way back when, Rod and Oliver Galiani developed a system for film testing.  It's based on the Zone system, using neutral density filters and a controlled environment.  What you accomplish is a marriage between the film that you use, your lens, your light meter and developing time to produce the best negative possible.  You can also use this system to figure out the plus and minus development times.

Some people ask why and my response is why not.  Film testing accelerates the process of coming out with the best negative possible.  True, sometimes people find it difficult to invest time, money and film.  But for some it becomes a pyridine of asking yourself, is it better to invest in a few sheets of film or let experience be your best teacher.  For me, it's film testing.  I like it and it does save a lot of time and effort.  Again, for me, it makes photography a enjoyable experience.

Think that all things are created equal?  Nope.  I have two Pentax Spot Meters, one digital one analog.  I have 2/3 stop difference between the two.

Film Testing Procedure