Print Terms and Characteristics

Density = overall lightness or darkness of a print

Contrast = difference between the lightest and darkest areas of a print

Highlight = very light area in a print

Midtone = area of medium brightness in a print

Shadow = very dark area in a print

Flat = minimal differences in brightness between light and dark areas.

Necessary to use a higher contrast filter, including #3, #4 or #5.

Contrasty = significant differences in brightness between light and dark areas.

Necessary to use a lower contrast filter, including #0 or #1.

Variable-Contrast Filters

Ilford Variable Contrast Filters.jpg

Contrast Grades

Contrast Grades #0 – #1 = Lower Contrast - to reduce contrast with Contrasty Negative

Contrast Grade #2 = Normal Contrast

Contrast Grades #3 – #5 | Higher Contrast - to increase contrast with Flat Negative

NOTE: The following general guidelines and principles apply to making a Photographic Print Enlargement:

Overall Density (overall lightness or darkness of a print) is Controlled Only by the Time (Enlarger Timer) + Lens Aperture

Overall Contrast (difference between the lightest and darkest areas of a print) is Controlled Only by the Variable-Contrast Filters