Talking About Negatives

Density:

 

 

The amount of silver deposited as the result of exposure and development of the light sensitive emulsion of the film.

 

Dense:

 

 

(Too Dense) A negative or an area of the negative is which a large amount of silver has been deposited. A dense negative transmits relatively little light. Excessive density (too dense) results from overexposure of the negative. The opposite: Thin.

 

Normal:

 

 

Describes a negative with a wide density range resulting from correct exposure and proper development. There will be detail in the shadows and some density in the highlight areas.

 

Thin:

 

 

(Too Thin) A negative or an area of a negative where relatively little silver has been deposited. A thin negative transmits a large amount of light. A (too) thin negative results from underexposure. The opposite: Dense.

 

Fog:

 

 

An overall density (a gray cast) in the image caused by either unintentional exposure to light (i.e. removing the lid from developing tank at the wrong time, light leaks, etc.) or unwanted chemical activity.

 

Highlights:

 

 

Areas representing the bright parts of a scene. There is a large amount of silver deposited, creating dense areas on the negative. Also referred to as high density or "whites".

 

Shadows:

 

 

Areas representing the least illuminated parts of a scene. There is a small amount of silver deposited, creating thin, transparent areas on the negative.

 

Contrast:

 

 

The difference in density or apparent brightness between tonal areas of a negative.

 

Contrasty:

 

 

(High Contrast) Describes a negative with extreme differences in density. A high contrast negative has dense highlights and thin shadows and not enough middle tones.

 

Flat:

 

 

(Low Contrast) Describes a negative with minimal differences in density. A low contrast negative has primarily middle tones with no clearly defined highlights and shadows.

 

ISO (ASA):

 

 

A numerical rating system that describes the sensitivity of a film to light. Also referred to as film speed. ISO/ASA is denoted by a number. (ISO: International Standards Organization, ASA: American Standards Association).

 

Exposure
Index (E.I.):

 

A self imposed film speed setting determined by making tests of one’s equipment, film, and developing technique. May or may not agree with film manufacturer’s recommended ratings.

 

Exposure
Latitude:

 

The ability of the film to record a range of subject brightness.