Right on.
I used to keep a 25 sheet box of No 5 graded paper for that rare time I just had to provide a print for someone else.
Now I just say forget it if my VC head on #4 won't make it.
Have you ever tried a Kodak 47B acetate filter (very dark and dense blue) to go beyond the #4 VC range using multigrade paper? I had read an article years ago about this "trick". Doubt it would work, but who knows.
Walter
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On Sunday, January 16, 2005, at 07:30 PM, James B. Davis wrote:
On Sun, 16 Jan 2005 18:43:44 -0500, Walter Holt <locnleave@xxxxxxxxxxx> wrote/replied to:
You are preaching to the choir. I fully understand what you are saying
as I started using VC paper in 1959 (DuPont Varigam I think).
I was not the one asking about the blending or adding of VC filters,
that was Kostas. Personally I think it would be a poor idea.
In my own darkroom I Use an Ilford Ilfospeed Multigrade enlarger head and control box. I just punch a button to change contrast. I am not unsure, but I do experiment experiment, and have fun.
I agree about not mixing filters - and not expecting too much. When you've increased contrast with a #4, that's it, forget trying to squeeze out more in any other way. Get a single grade if you need more contrast.
MG Filters are simply changing the colour. I have for years used colour head enlargerss with MG B&W and found the settings that worked best. #4 is a strong magenta filter while the softer filters are more light yellow. The multigrade papers have their limits and I've found it a waste of time trying to push those limits.
-- Jim Davis, Nature Photography, http://easternbeaver.com/ Motorcycle Relay Kits
