4x5 Portraits

Monday, April 2, 2012

I wasn't sure what to expect from this weekend's endeavors with the 4x5 - mainly experimenting with finding a sweet spot with Tri-X 320 Pan and Diafine.  Most of the previous frames were decidedly low in contrast, and lacks a DMax that scanned well.  The following were shot at EI 1000, and processed 4+4 in Diafine, Kodak fix and a long bath in a tray.  The processing is done in a daylight tank with the sheets  'taco' wrapped.

No alterations in PS except setting black point and taking a few dust bunnies off.  Overall, I am happy. I have one more holder to unload and process - I'll be sure to share those when I get around to it.  

Onward!

Pacemaker SG + Aero Ektar 178 f/2.5
Kodak Tri-x 320 @ EI 1000
© Jason Snyder 2012

Pacemaker SG + Aero Ektar 178 f/2.5
Kodak Tri-x 320 @ EI 1000
© Jason Snyder 2012

Printing Van Dyke Browns

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Coffee...

Got the recipe for the Van Dykes - ready to run 10, mat and prepare for sale - some at the PCA, and some privately.  Next week...
These are two contact prints on Arches watercolor paper of a 4x5 negative.  I shot the film yesterday, processed it at home (far more economical that at the darkroom) using the taco method (as opposed to trays).  Worked very nicely, and so long as I am careful I can avoid scratches.  Ilford Delta 100 rated at 100 shot with a Speed Graphic and Aero Ektar.  Processed in d76 1+1 for 12 minutes with a 10 minute fix - a good combination provided the original neg is pretty contrasty to begin with.

Definitely need to use the contrasting solution for the Van Dykes in the first rinse - and double coat the paper.  You can even see the difference in the two hanging here - the one on the right had 10 drops of contrasting solution - the left one none.  Additionally, they both were in the UV printer that I built (more on that sometime soon) for 8 minutes.

Also, I think Liquitex matte varnish to finish the prints is a good and viable option - I like the textured nature it provides, and since these prints are not very dynamic (low range) it is likely what I will do.  Additionally I wonder if it will add to the longevity of the prints and avoid fading.


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