Multigrade Filters on Omega D3

[focus_on_infinity]

I'm just getting set up to do my own printing, and I have an Omega D3 that is just about ready to go. From what I can tell, the only thing I lack is some way of using contrast filters. It doesn't look like there's a filter holder or any provision for one.

I've seen this post, #9. But, I'm wondering, instead of doing below-the-lens filtering, wouldn't it be more direct to put one of these Ilford 6x6 gels on top of the negative? Is there any downside to doing it one way or the other? If I just put the gel on top of the negative, do I run the risk of wrinkling it and ruining it?

 

[Paul Howell]

Do you have the variable condenser head or a single condenser head? I have a D3 with variable condense head, I insert 6 X 6 filters above or below the top condenser depending on the position of the condenser. Putting the filter on top of the negative should work as well.

 

[RalphLambrecht]

I'm just getting set up to do my own printing, and I have an Omega D3 that is just about ready to go. From what I can tell, the only thing I lack is some way of using contrast filters. It doesn't look like there's a filter holder or any provision for one.

I've seen this post, #9. But, I'm wondering, instead of doing below-the-lens filtering, wouldn't it be more direct to put one of these Ilford 6x6 gels on top of the negative? Is there any downside to doing it one way or the other? If I just put the gel on top of the negative, do I run the risk of wrinkling it and ruining it?

Don't worry about below the lens filtering.It's a perfect way of doing things as long as you keep the filters dust free.

 

[focus_on_infinity]

Do you have the variable condenser head or a single condenser head? I have a D3 with variable condense head, I insert 6 X 6 filters above or below the top condenser depending on the position of the condenser. Putting the filter on top of the negative should work as well.

I have two, a large one and a smaller one, but neither seem to be adjustible in any way.

Also, if I'm doing larger prints, does it make sense to increase the bulb to a 150W?

 

[Paul Howell]

Seems like you have the condensers one for 4X5 the other for MF and 35mm, the viable condenser head looks like this. The front is hinged and opens up so that the top condenser can be moved depending on which lens is being used.

 

[focus_on_infinity]

Seems like you have the condensers one for 4X5 the other for MF and 35mm,

Yes, believe that's correct.

 

[Deleted member 88956]

Filters work just fine between lens and easel. No need to overthink this.

 

[Paul Howell]

I would use below the lens filters, less trouble to pop one in and out in a filter carrier than lifting the upper stage to swap out filters, but a set of under the lens filters is double what a 6X6 set costs.

 

[focus_on_infinity]

I would use below the lens filters, less trouble to pop one in and out in a filter carrier than lifting the upper stage to swap out filters, but a set of under the lens filters is double what a 6X6 set costs.

I found an assembly that goes between the condenser and the lamp for $dirt that has a drawer for a 5" or so filter. I've seen some pictures that seem to indicate that it will fit on the head that I have. I think that should probably work.

 

[Paul Howell]

I've seen those, I think it will work and if inexpensive well worth a try. In the long run I would consider an upgrade to a variable condense or color head. If you haven't seen this here is is a list of parts for the D3.

http://www.khbphotografix.com/omega/Enlargers/D3.htm

KHBphoto out of Canada has many parts for the Omega D series, you want to contact him to what he recommends.
http://www.khbphotografix.com

 

[Philippe-Georges]

I have a D3 too, and I just put the filter (15x15cm) atop the condenser, as that door opens so easily, and a 0.3 density filter to stretch the exposure time so I have enough time for dodging and burning..

 

[focus_on_infinity]

I have a D3 too, and I just put the filter (15x15cm) atop the condenser, as that door opens so easily, and a 0.3 density filter to stretch the exposure time so I have enough time for dodging and burning..

I got my 6x6 Ilford filters last week, and I've found that doing that works perfectly. They're more rigid than I had thought, so they're fine just sitting under the condenser.