12.
Print Evaluation.
The type of portrait you make for an official assignment and its intended use will dictate whether or not
a color or B/W print is needed (your film type should have already been selected accordingly, of course).
When evaluating print quality, you should understand the main factors that influence the acceptability of
a print. These are as follows:
a. Evenness and Size of Print Borders. A 1/4-inch border (except where noted) should be
maintained on all four sides of the image.
b. Framing (or Composition). This consists of making the proper decision in regards to printing
the entire negative or cropping it to a larger image size, printing the image squared, or tilting it to one
side or the other for effect.
c. Exposure. Prints should contain a full range of tones ranging from good blacks to white.
Pure whites should be present only in specular highlights such as reflections of the main light
(catchlights) in the eyes of the subject.
d. Contrast. Regardless of negative contrast, print contrast should be normal indicating the
proper choice of contrast printing filter or paper.
e. Dodging and Burning-In. Objectionable highlights should be subdued by darkening. A
background that is too white should be darkened around the edges at least to the point where the borders
of the print are distinguishable. Also, darkening in the corners of a print helps to draw the viewer's
attention to the subject. Objectionably dark shadows should be lightened.
f. Mechanical or Chemical Defects. There should be none.
NOTE:
The name tag DOES NOT need to be legible.
13.
Summary.
This completes lesson 2 and this subcourse. Before proceeding to the examination, complete the
following practice exercise. Check your answers with the practice exercise answer key and feedback
sheet. If any of your answers are incorrect, review the area indicated until you understand the material.
2-10
SS0510
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