Graded Paper with Dichro Head

Shawn Dougherty · Aug 7, 2007

I've been doing nothing but contact printing on graded papers since early 2004 and haven't used an enlarger since my few years in college. I finally picked one up over the weekend and have a couple questions.

I bought a Nikor by Rollie 67 Dichro and have two nice lenses for it. I've been reading about split grade printing and plan to calibrate my enlarger according to Paul B's article and take the time to learn how to do it well.

IN THE MEANTIME, I would like to enlarge on my Kentmere Bromide graded papers. At what filtration should I print on graded papers? There is a lever that you can pull which removes the filter for focusing but I'd like to have the diffusion in place to help with dust. Any recommendations (or good links) for printing on graded papers with a dichro head would be greatly appreciated. Shawn

Ian Grant · Aug 7, 2007

just use no filtration at all. Turn the dials to Zero.

It makes no difference that its a Dichroic head.

Ian

ann · Aug 7, 2007

that is a very sweet little enlarger. i would just use the white light function, i don't think removing the filter pack influences the diffusion element; however, i am not a expert on lighting units.

the other option may be too use the smallest amount of yellow possible.

Shawn Dougherty · Aug 7, 2007

Turning the dials to Zero was my initial thought... makes sense. Thanks Ian.

I'd hate to use the white light function unless I know for sure that is doesn't influence the diffusion element, as you say Ann. And you're right, I couldn't pass this one up. It is in like new condition, very nice. I can't wait to get into some of the night work I've done with the 35 over the last year. Best. Shawn

ann · Aug 7, 2007

someone gave us one of these at school, and it had such a lovely graduation , i hope you got something similar along those lines.

Shawn Dougherty · Aug 7, 2007

ann said:
someone gave us one of these at school, and it had such a lovely graduation , i hope you got something similar along those lines.

Me too! Thanks, I'll be posting the results when I get it up and running. I still need a decent 8x10 easel. Best. Shawn

GeorgesGiralt · Aug 7, 2007

Hi !
The lever for "white light" or "Focusing" as it is often named does nothing else than just putting the filters out the light path as they are when you dial 0.
The only trick is that this device use a lever to push the arms away instead of having to turn the dials.
This way, when you return the lever to the printing position, you get the same filtration as previously.
IMHO it will not change anything in light repartition/mixing/diffusion. It is just a different way to turn the filters to zero.

Les McLean · Aug 7, 2007

I'd do as Georges suggested and use the "focusing lever" function to guarantee consistency.

Shawn Dougherty · Aug 7, 2007

Excellent, thanks for the advice Everyone. Les, I'm going to have to keep an eye on my wallet and your schedule. I hear your split grade printing workshop is top notch. Best. Shawn

Les McLean · Aug 7, 2007

Shawn Dougherty said:
Excellent, thanks for the advice Everyone. Les, I'm going to have to keep an eye on my wallet and your schedule. I hear your split grade printing workshop is top notch. Best. Shawn

Thank you for that Shawn. Where in PA are you? When I'm across the pond I always visit Newtown, about 30mins north of Philadelphia, where I have good friends.

Shawn Dougherty · Aug 7, 2007

I'm on the other side, about an hour north of Pittsburgh. I'm broke about 90% of the time, hopefully I can time the remaining 10% with one of your visits. I'd certainly be willing to drive across the state if you're giving a workshop in Philly! If you have some kind of a list going for people to contact, please put me on it. All the best. Shawn

Graded Paper with Dichro Head

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