How to Make Black-and-White Prints From Color Negatives

Sometimes you want the classic look of a black-and-white print. Don't limit yourself to monochromatic negatives - you can make prints from color negatives, too. The trick is in the paper and the filters you use.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Photographic Print Papers
• Developer Trays
• Photo Negatives
• Photography Chemicals

1. Mix all of your solutions and put them in the appropriate containers.

2. Adjust the masking frame for the paper you intend to use, allowing for a suitable border.

3. Turn on a 7.5-watt (or less) amber safe light. Keep it at least 4 feet from the paper.

4. Adjust the enlarger so that the image is the correct size, and focus it.

5. Make a test strip to determine the correct exposure time.

6. Use filters to offset the difference between a black-and-white negative and a color one. Start with a No. 4 contrast filter. If you don't see enough contrast, move up to a No. 5, and so on.

7. Switch off the enlarger light.

8. Put a sheet of panchromatic photography print paper, made specifically for this application, in the masking frame. The paper must be placed emulsion side up.

9. Use the correct time and aperture setting, according to your test strip.

10. Set the timer.

11. Turn on the enlarger.

12. Process the paper as you would black-and-white.

Tips & Warnings

• A film processor can make black-and-white prints and enlargements for you from color transparencies and negatives, or black-and-white inter-negatives from color negatives.
• Store print paper in its bag and box in a cool, dry place.
• Keep safe light exposure to a minimum. Lighting of any kind affects the exposure and lowers the contrast of the print.
• Use caution when working around any chemicals.
• Do not expose print paper to X-rays.