Flashing Camera Films to

Lower Contrast

“Flashing” means to deliberately fog film by giving it a uniform exposure before processing. The amount and type of exposure will vary with the “look” desired. This slight exposure lowers the film’s contrast (to some extent), primarily in the upper scale (shadow) areas, and allows for more detail in the shadows. The results are similar whether the film is pre- or post-flashed in a laboratory or on the camera (equipment supplied by camera manufacturers).

Flashing is often done to establish a closer match between films of different contrast characteristics that will be intercut. Other reasons for flashing are to create pastels from more saturated colors—enhancing shadow details that have less fill light, etc. Effects such as changing the color of shadows can be made by selective filtering (non-neutral light source).

The amount of flash will affect the result, but flashing intensity has its limits, and too much will distort the image. Flashing is often measured in percentages by the cine- matographers and laboratory personnel. There is no absolute consensus about what these percentages mean. This is usually perceived through past experience, and as with most other creative techniques, it is important to work closely with the laboratory and gain experience through contacts and testing.

Exposed Film —What Now?

A Final Thought About Laboratories

Perhaps now is a good time to draw on the experiences of a lot of professional cinematographers that may offer a few hints about dealing with the laboratories where you take your films for processing and duplicating. You need to establish a good line of communications with your lab. Doing so will help this step of your production go smoothly.

Know your needs —Know what you need from a lab and then talk about those needs with several labs before you make a choice. Consider such things as editing, dubbing, special effects, animation, etc., so the lab can help you accomplish these tasks the best way possible.

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Kodak ISBN 0-87985-749-8 manual Flashing Camera Films to Lower Contrast, Exposed Film -What Now?
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ISBN 0-87985-749-8 specifications

Kodak, a name synonymous with photography, has undergone a tremendous evolution over its long history. The company is not just a pioneer in film and printing technologies but has also embraced the digital age with significant innovations.

One of the prominent features of Kodak’s evolution is its dedication to imaging science, which has remained at the core of its business strategy. Kodak has developed a wide range of film types, including color negative film, color positive film, and black-and-white film, which cater to different photography needs. Each film type comes with unique characteristics designed to optimize image quality, color reproduction, and contrast.

Kodak’s commitment to innovation is evident in its development of digital technologies. The company was an early adopter of digital imaging techniques, launching its first digital camera in the early 1990s. This transition to digital photography focused on making the process more accessible for consumers while maintaining the quality and detail that Kodak is known for. The use of image sensors, such as CCD and CMOS, has allowed Kodak to capture high-resolution images that are rich in detail and color fidelity.

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Additionally, Kodak has also made significant strides in the realm of image editing software and applications, which complement its hardware offerings. Programs like Kodak EasyShare and Kodak Gallery have allowed users to edit, organize, and share their photos seamlessly, further enhancing the user experience.

Another important characteristic of Kodak is its steadfast commitment to sustainability. The company has initiated various programs aimed at reducing environmental impact by promoting recycling and energy-efficient practices in its manufacturing processes.

In summary, Kodak’s legacy is a blend of heritage and innovation. From traditional film to cutting-edge digital imaging and sustainable practices, Kodak continues to hold a prominent place in the world of photography. Its technologies and products are a testament to its ability to adapt to changing times while remaining grounded in its core values of quality and consumer accessibility.
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