Cross processing

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Cross processing is a term which describes the procedure of deliberately processing photographic film in a wrong chemical solution. Cross processing is usually done in one of two methods:

• Processing negative color print film in E-6 process chemicals (intended for use in processing color reversal films)
• Processing positive color reversal film in C-41 process chemicals (intended for use in processing color print films)

However, cross processing can take place in many other forms, such as negative color print film and/or positive color reversal film in a black and white developer. Other interesting effects can be obtained by bleaching colour films processed in black and white chemistry using an hydrochloric acid dichromate mixture or using potassium triodide (KI₃) solution. If these bleached films are then re-exposed to light and re-processed in their original colour chemistry, subtle, relatively low contrast, pastel effects are obtained.

Color cross processed photographs are often characterized by unnatural colors and high contrast. The results of cross processing differ from case to case, as the results are determined by many factors such as the make and type of the film used, the amount of light exposed onto the film and the chemical used to develop the film.

Cross processing effects can be simulated in digital photography by a number of techniques involving the manipulation of contrast/brightness, hue/saturation and curves in image editors such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP.

[edit] Examples of Cross-processing

• Tony Scott's 2005 film "Domino" was shot on color-reversal stock and cross-processed. Intentionally "blown out" and frequently shot at 6 fps, the film has a smeary, high-contrast look with a red-tendency.

[edit] External links

Cross processing in Photoshop Cross processing tricks