The complete process of traditional image includes exposure, film processing and enlarging. Most of us shall hand over this photo-finishing process to service centers. These centers employ a projection print system, which is controlled by automatic with manual override for printing on a roll of paper. When exposed paper reaches the minimum required length, the automatic process will cut off the paper and transport to the developing tanks. The final output is single sheets of 3R etc. They are called projection prints. Enlarging is then representing manual printing of any size, normally 8x10 or over with an enlarger.

The photo-finishing process of B/W and color are quite similar. B/W, with its monotone, is more flexible that makes it easier for beginners. Color, with its three principle and complimentary colors, is somewhat complicated for beginners. It requires more practice to master.

Darkroom set up is an important first step, please refer to the personal darkroom equipment list of our site. Select what is suitable; check details and price, make one's own analysis and budget before the purchase will be a better way.

We have a lot of service center from general to professional to meet all kind of photo finishing. Why we have to consider a personal darkroom? Besides personal hobby, we must look for the best quality.

Personal photo finishing is mostly B/W. That is because nearly all service centers are handling color only. Although there is a new method for B/W projection prints, the quality is far from true B/W paper, especially tone control, which must be handled by one's self.

Many will find a great challenge to print color. For enlarging, 3R and 5R are not suitable because the cost is higher than projection. The most difficult part is the expiry date of chemicals, which are normally four to eight weeks from mixing. Of course, if we want the best print, why bother about the cost. Yet it is still a good practice to take care of everything to avoid contamination that affects our process and chemicals. Photo finishing requires absolute error-free; our technique must be stable to get good result. As the whole process is a chemical nature, we must follow exactly what the manual said. Follow all rules in mixing, processing procedure and timing. Any personal style of adjustment should be applied after securing a certain standard of technique.

Processing & Enlarging Introduction P.1/2