Multigrade filters and contrast

[reub2000]

It seems to me that my contrast filters aren't having much effect on paper. I'm using Ilford Muligrade IV RC, Kodak Polymax filter set, an Omega B-600 enlarger, and Edwal Ultra Black paper developer. I printed 1 of these test sheets at grade 1, and the other at grade 3. I can see a definite increase in contrast on the #3 one, but me thinks there should be a more pronounced difference.

 

[DrPablo]

There's a pretty clear difference in contrast between the two.

How did the exposure times compare? The exposure time should preferentially affect the highlights and the contrast grade should preferentially affect the shadows.

Also, was there any difference in treatment of the scanned images?

 

[reub2000]

There's a pretty clear difference in contrast between the two.

How did the exposure times compare? The exposure time should preferentially affect the highlights and the contrast grade should preferentially affect the shadows.

Also, was there any difference in treatment of the scanned images?

Same exposure, processing and scanning.

 

[Simon R Galley]

Dear Reub,

POLYMAX filters are very similar to ILFORD filters so you should see a distinct difference between grade 1 and 3 on ILFORD paper : Good test is to do a step
wedge 0 to 5 to see the contrast steps, also, if the filters are old ( or very
well used ) they may have dteriorated and should be changed.

Simon ILFORD Photo / HARMAN technology Limited.

 

[Tom Kershaw]

Simon,

Are the latest set of Multigrade filters substantially different from the MGII set?

Tom

 

[pentaxuser]

I agree with Paul. This looks like a 2 grade step to me. Have a look at the shadows such as mens' jackets and trousers. You lose most of the detail from grade 1 to 3. Have a look in any of the photography books that deal with VC paper and filters and I think you will see that the jump from 1 to 3 is about what you've got here.

pentaxuser

 

[dancqu]

Are You Sure?

Same exposure, ...

Do you mean by "same exposure" time and f stop?
VC papers vary in their exposure requirements as
grades are changed. A good test would be with
a step wedge. Dan