Using a 2x2 fog filter on the enlarger - opinions?

[BDK]

I would like to use a fog filter to change the appearance of my shots. Now, I can either buy a, for example, circular Tiffen fog filter for the filter diameter of my lens, or, alternatively, I could [I think] buy a 2x2 filter and insert it in the tray I use for my Iflord B&W contrast filters. And expect the same result. Obviously, I'd prefer to capture the image without the filter manipulation, so that I have more versatility in printing. The advantage is that I could use a progression of fog and double fog filters, from 1/8 to 3, to better capture my vision. Otherwise, I would have to purchase a similar number of circular filters at 82mm and use step-down rings according to whatever lens I am using. I hope I have explained this. Before I go out and start spending money. To summarize: can I use 2x2 fog filters in the filter tray of my enlarger, as a substitute for a circular filter screwed to my lens? Will the result be the same? I would think so, but who the Heck knows? Right?

 

[Nicholas Lindan]

A diffusion/fog filter on the camera lens will produce a halo around highlights. On the enlarger lens it will produce a dark halo around shadows. It doesn't look natural, but you may like the look.

You used to be able to make your own filter by stretching a woman's stocking over the lens, but stockings seem to be a rare item these days.

 

[btaylor]

What Mr. Lindan said. And yea? Why not experiment with a stocking over the taking lens- it was a standard softening technique by old timey cinematographers. They would also sometimes put them over the back element of the lens- I don't know how the effects are different. Also, if you are working on a tripod you can just hold a filter in front of the lens dispensing with any fancy adapters at all. Saran wrap makes an interesting diffuser as well- and its probably already in your kitchen. Have fun!

 

[wiltw]

Already addressed: A filter on the taking lens of the camera has a different effect in the image formation path of the enlarger.


New point: A filter in the lightsource path (in the filter drawer of an enlarger, where variable contrast filters or color printing filter are inserted) affect the nature of the light source, but do not necessarily alter the image formation path (neg to lens to paper). A diffusing filter changes a condensor source to something a bit more in the direction similar to a diffusion source; affect on the print of diffusion source is subtle.

 

[Frank53]

Enlarging lenses also take screw in filters. Most have the same size. Not sure, 40,5 or 43 I think.

 

[wiltw]

Enlarging lenses also take screw in filters. Most have the same size. Not sure, 40,5 or 43 I think.

One can also use below-lens filter holders that clamp around the lens, like one version of variable contrast filters (one below lens; one in filter drawer of light source)

 

[Frank53]

think

Just checked, my 50mm Durst Neonon and the 80mm and 105mm Rodagons all take 40,5mm

 

[BDK]

I am always gobsmacked by the stunning depth of knowledge on Photrio. Thanks, all of you.