How to Make a Contact Proof Sheet

Making a Contact Proof Sheet is a easy way to look at all your negatives in a positive mode for observation.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Processed roll of 35mm black and white film cut into 5 frame segments in negative sleeve.
• Photo paper 8 by 10 inches(variable contrast multigrade (VC RC)
• Foam Pad
• Filter
• Glass Cover
• Cardboard
• Enlarger

1. Place empty 35mm negative carrier into enlarger- gently lower condenser onto carrier. Place foam pad and glass sheet under enlarger.

2. Place medium contrast filter (#2) in filter drawer. Open lens to maximum aperture (wide open). Turn on lamp and focus until should be large enough to comfortably cover where your 8 by 10 inch paper will be (on top of foam pad, under glass).

3. Close down lens to smallest aperture (f/16 or f/22). Open up lens three stops. Adjust pointer on timer to 5 seconds. When finished with exposing do the 90 seconds in developer, 30-60 seconds in stop bath, and 120 seconds into fixer

4. After the fixer put into a dry tray and observe in lighted area. Wash contact sheet with water and then set to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• If the contact sheet is all grey, open up (more light) the lens one stop and repeat the contact sheet procedure.
• If the contact sheet is all black, stop down (less light) the lens one stop and repeat the contact sheet procedure.
• Chemicals may be hazardous
• Wash hands after handling chemicals