How do I know which filter to use with any given VC paper? What is it that the filter is doing to the paper? Increasing/decreasing contrast?
VC filters run in grades, typically 00,0,1,2,3,4,5, from softest, to very hard. There are usually 14 filters to a set as they include 1/2 grades, like 2 1/2, for instance. VC paper is coated with two emulsions (sort of), high contrast, and low contrast. The emulsions are more and less sensitive to the different colors of light that the filters produce. This allows you to alter contrast by altering the color of the light. It's more simple in practice than in theory. VC papers are similar enough in their response that grade 2 (right in the middle) is where most persons might start with a "normal" negative. You make a test print, and then select a grade offering more or less contrast, based on how you liked the test, and make a print using that one. Repeat until you get what you want. After some practice, you'll often select the correct filter on the first or second try, just by looking at the neg. Those with color heads can use a chart to determine settings that emulate the filter colors, by combining yellow and magenta light. If you don't want to use filters, you can use graded papers, that have an inherent contrast built in to them, according to their grade. There are tricks to alter a specific graded papers contrast to some degree. Most photographers who use graded papers tailor their negatives specifically for the paper they prefer to print on. VC offers more solutions if you are still getting a handle on exposure and developing.
