Reversing Yellow Filter Effect

[Roger Pellegrini]

I inadvertently left a yellow filter on my lens for a shot taken in the maze at Alhambra. I believe it is helping to block up the shadows on my Delta 100 neg. Of course there are many more variables, the negative is too contrasty. Would using a reducer on the negative help?

RP

 

[Ian Grant]

Just print with a softer grade of paper, also you might try pre-flashing the print to reduce contrast and allow you to print the highlights.

Ian

 

[Pinholemaster]

Before reducing the negative, which can't be reversed, go to a lower contrast paper grade or variable contrast filter.

 

[keithwms]

If shadow info is in the neg but the shadows are blocking up when your highlights are where you want them in the print, then consider split grade printing. This will allow you to manipulate shadow detail [almost] independently of highlights.

Of course another thing you could do is scan the neg and curve it....

 

[gainer]

The major effect of the yellow filter is on exposure. Depending on the intensity of the yellow, it can require a stop or more increase in exposure to capture the shadows. It also attenuates blue more than red or green, which makes clouds stand out against a blue sky. If you allowed for the exposure factor, which most autoexposure cameras will, you should have no problem printing on some grade of paper. Many photographers leave a yellow filter on for outdoor pictures.