First off: I hope discussion posts are OK? I don't see any rules except for tagging photo posts.

I have an old beseler B&W enlarger, no color filters or brightness configuration. I have a set of gels for contrast control.

When I'm printing 5x7 and I have my lens at the manufacturer's recommended aperture size, exposure times are very short (4-6 seconds). It's hard to get a good dodge/burn in such a short period. I can dial my lens down to f16, but even then I'm starting around 8 seconds for exposure, I'd like maybe 12-16.

I was thinking 1 or 2 stops of neutral density filter could slow down my exposure and give me more time to execute the print. Is that a thing people do?

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[–] 2 points 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago) (2 children)

I don't remember doing that back in the day, and don't see ND filters on bhphoto.com right now, just multigrade. Maybe you can use a less bright enlarging bulb, or a longer focal length lens with higher f-numbers that you'd use at greater height. Typical enlarging lenses are set up for 8x10 prints so if you're printing smaller, the extra focal length can help you anyway.

If you're having fun enlarging then hey, go for it, but it's a very retro, expensive process with nasty chemicals and stuff, that's hard to justify unless you're trying to make serious art prints with high-silver, fiber based paper and all that. Of course that's even more expensive and uses a ton of water. Next stop after that is probably platinum prints ($$$$$$$$). Otherwise, you can do really well with monochrome ink jet materials.

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  • [–] [S] 1 point 3 weeks ago (1 child)

    Hmm, I didn't think about the lens, but that makes a lot of sense. A dimmer bulb seems like a cheaper place to start though.

    For me, the fun of prints is the fully physical process. I want fewer hobbies that involve a screen in front of my face, and each print feels like a puzzle to get lost in. When I take a photo, knowing that my editing options are limited to what I can achieve with two hands and a timer, has helped me to slow down and try to get things right before I open the shutter.

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  • [–] 1 point 3 weeks ago

    You didn't mention what kind of camera you're using, but if you want real control and slowdown, get a 4x5 view camera! I've never used one but have a buddy who did that for a while. I think you can get that stuff super cheap now. They also exist in 6x9 cm so you can use 120/220 roll film.

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