Masking Question

[Swift Raven]

I am using a Condit type punch to register my 4 x 5 masks. Although it works fine I don't like the fact that the punch holes encroach on the edges of the negative. The AN glass that goes over the registered negative has slightly larger holes so there is a bit more entrusion into the negative. So my question is for those of you that tape a leader onto the edge of the negative and register it that way. How does that work? Particularly is there any problem with the fact that the tape results in the top & bottom glass in the negative carrier not resting on the actual negative. I use a TriNeg carrier in a Durst 138sp so I can switch without too much of a problem.

 

[boyooso]

I have not had any problems with the tape interfering with things lying flat. Your best bet is to use a very thin tape, do you remember that polyester silver tape.

Corey

 

[Photo Engineer]

One solution was to use larger film for making masks so that the punch and registration marks lie outside the picture area, but I know that is not always possible. In fact, the films for this purpose were often 1/2" larger in one dimension. It is too bad that this is becoming a lost art. The Dye Transfer Forum on Yahoo might have some tips.

PE

 

[tim_bessell]

I use ruby lith tape, it's pretty thin, and comes in different widths. I have only made unsharp and contrast reduction masks so far. These masks do not need to be sharp, but rather blurred. Sorry, can't comment on a mask that relies on sharpness.

 

[MarkL]

I'm not familiar with the Condit system, but you could email Lynn Radeka at radekaphotography.com. He's a masking guru.