13
\$\begingroup\$

I have been using selenium as the last step during negative development to increase durability of the negative. I was told that it can be used to increase the contrast of the negatives too. I tried, but I don't see any significant result.

Do you have any experience with selenium for contrast increase? How is it best used for this purpose? What dillution? Should it be rinsed? How long to expose the negatives to selenium?

Improve this question
\$\endgroup\$

1 Answer 1

Reset to default
7
\$\begingroup\$

Haven't used it myself but have you seen Ansel Adams mention of it in 'The Negative'?
The method he used was:

  1. Soak neg thoroughly in water
  2. Re-fix in plain hypo solution for "several minutes"
  3. 5-10 mins in Selenium/Kodak HCA solution mixed 1:2 (constant agitation)
  4. HCA
  5. Wash

This produced about a one zone density increase in the highlights.

Improve this answer
\$\endgroup\$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.