c. Overall Objective.
The ultimate objective in obtaining a balanced
color print is to give each emulsion equal exposure. Consequently, the only
use of the filters in the printer is to control exposure, thereby obtaining
correct color balance.
4.
a. Negative Requirements.
For the first test, select a standard
negative which has been exposed and processed as described in the previous
lesson.
To reiterate, this negative should have the proper density,
including a gray card, and have a wide range of tones, including flesh.
(1) Choose a negative that is free of defects such as scratches,
stains, fingerprints, etc.
(2) Insert the negative emulsion down into the carrier, compose, and
make the first test.
(3) Use the negative to compare print characteristics, adjust for
emulsion changes, and to check the process.
b. Test Print. Printers differ from each other in both light intensity
and filtration. Therefore, it is difficult to say a certain filter pack and
exposure will produce a perfect print. You must make a test print.
(1) Since enlarging equipment varies considerably, it is difficult to
specify exact exposure times and filtration for a properly exposed print.
Kodak does recommend a starting filter pack for different types of prints
and negatives.
(2) You should consult the data sheet packaged with the
color
printing paper to arrive at a starting exposure time and filter pack.
(3) The most important thing to remember about a test exposure (and
subsequent trials) is to record your test exposure information. It really
does not matter what exposure and filtration you use for subsequent test
comparisons.
You should write down the magnification, exposure time,
f/stop, filtration, and anything else that is changed from one test to
another.
(4) Compose and focus the image: check your timer, f/stop, and
filtration setting on the enlarger; turn out the lights; put your paper
emulsion up in the easel, and make the exposure.
After processing and
drying, you will have to evaluate your test print for color balance.
3-5
SS0514
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