How do I choose an enlarger?

The lens is typically decided on based on the format and how far up you can move the enlarger head, and the focal length ususally parallels the “normal” focal length for that format. For instance, the ideal enlarger lens for printing 35mm negatives is 50mm; for medium format it’s 80mm, etc.

Do you need an enlarger timer?

You don’t really need one, if you are content with using your wrist watch or a metronome and manually turn on and off the enlarger. Some people prefer that way.

What are the most common light sources for enlarger?

All enlargers consist of a light source, normally an incandescent light bulb shining though a condenser or translucent screen to provide even illumination, a holder for the negative or transparency, and a specialized lens for projection.

Do you need an enlarger to develop film?

A photo enlarger is a necessary tool for developing film photographs. It lets you project your negative onto a piece of photo paper, enlarging the image in the process. A photo enlarger can seem confusing if it’s your first time in a darkroom, but fortunately, it’s easy to use once you get the hang of it.

How do I choose an enhancer lens?

The rule of thumb is that the focal length of the lens must be equal to, or longer than, the diagonal of the negative, as measured in millimeters. If it is not, the lens might not be able to “see” all of the negative. For example, a 35mm negative requires a focal length of the lens that is at least 50mm. A 6×4.

What is a dichroic enlarger?

A dichroic enlarger controls how much red, green, and blue light reaches the photographic paper by means of subtractive filters that are partially inserted into the beam of light from the enlarger’s bulb. The cyan filter subtracts some of the red component of the light.

What is a GraLab timer?

GraLab 300 Overview Set by seconds, minutes or a combination of the two, GraLab’s exclusive dual-cam system gives you exact timing over long intervals. Two, three-wire receptacles can control an enlarger or printer and safelight with a combination time/focus switch.

What is enlarger timer?

Description. Mains operated digital timer for very accurate exposure timing when using an enlarger. The timer can be set in 0.1 second increments from 0.1 to 9.9 seconds, or in one second. increments from 10 to 99 seconds. The display brightness can be adjusted to suit.

What does an enlarger lens do?

Why use an enlarger lens? Designed as they are to project a flat piece of film onto the flat surface of photographic paper, enlarger lenses show virtually no curvilinear distortion. This is why they are generally standard lenses: 50mm for 35mm film, or 80mm for medium-format film.