Contrast filter - where to stick it in?

[zauhar]

Here is a really basic question - I have started using an Omega B600 enlarger that I bought as part of a darkroom setup, and it came with some Kodak contrast filters. I initially assumed that these inserted into a drawer in the enlarger head - but No! They are a bit too small, and clearly not intended to go there.

The Kodak filters are mounted in square plastic frames, about 3" on a side, and have a little "handle" on one edge, suggesting that they are supposed to slide in somewhere. But where?

Any insight appreciated! I bought the set a few months back, and can't find the seller's contact number at the moment.

Randy

 

[tlitody]

these are the same as the ilford under the lens contrast filters. The kit which comes in a box and has two methods of attachment under the lens. One is a three legged attachment which you take the lens off and refit so the lens holds the legs in place. Then the square filter holder which is part of the kit, clips onto the three legs.
The square holder also comes with three screws which can be used to clamp the holder to bottom of the lens without using the legs.

Sounds like you don't have all the kit that you should. The filters are useless without something to hold them in place.

If your enlarger has an above the lens filter drawer then I suggest you get some ilford or kodak filter sheets which fit that or can be cut to fit it. Otherwise see image below for what you are missing.

View attachment 86946

The square holder with three screws is on the right. The three legged attachment is on top of the box. You need either the holder with the three screws or the three legged attachment and holder without screws.

 

[zauhar]

these are the same as the ilford under the lens contrast filters. ...

Sounds like you don't have all the kit that you should. The filters are useless without something to hold them in place.

If your enlarger has an above the lens filter drawer then I suggest you get some ilford or kodak filter sheets which fit that or can be cut to fit it. Otherwise see image below for what you are missing.

Thanks! The Ilford kit is exactly like what I have ("under-the-lens filter" is the term I was missing when searching). I will check what I have again, but I am sure I do not have the hardware.

The simplest solution is to buy filters that will fit in the drawer, as you suggest.

I guess for the moment I could just hold the filter under the lens while exposing?

Randy

 

[zauhar]

You can just hold the filter under the lens while exposing the paper. Move it around a little in circles if it's got any scratches/defects (so they don't show up on your print).

Thanks! Maybe that's what the seller was doing, and there never was any under-the-lens holder?

 

[tlitody]

holding it is fine if you don't need your hands for burning and dodging!

If your enlarger has a red or diffusing filter holder which swings in and out from under the lens, you can take the filter out of that (or buy another unit) and just rest the contrast filters on it but its a bit of a pain and the filters can fall off really easily if you knock them whilst burning and dodging.

 

[jim_jm]

Randy -

You may want consider getting a set of Ilford Multicontrast filters, and just cutting them to size to fit in the existing filter drawer. Since they'll be above the lens, you won't have to worry about any light dust or scratches and your hands will be free for dodging/burning. I had a B600 for several years and it was a great enlarger for 35mm. Small and easy to move around if necessary, and gives great results if you have a quality lens. Good Luck!
Jim

 

[zauhar]

Thanks everyone - I do have a red filter than swings out of the way, but it will not work reliably to support the filters. I will get an Ilford set to use with the drawer, which sounds like the best solution.

Since I am learning, I have just been making 5X7's, and with the lens stopped down all the way (f/16) I still need a rather short exposure (< 10 sec). I am hoping the filters will let me use a significantly longer time, so I have better control.

I will experiment some more tonight.

Randy

 

[jim_jm]

That's one additional benefit of using filters. A #2 Ilford filter (with Multicontrast paper) gives you the same "neutral contrast" as no filter at all, but lengthens the exposure time. Good Luck!

 

[tlitody]

Thanks everyone - I do have a red filter than swings out of the way, but it will not work reliably to support the filters. I will get an Ilford set to use with the drawer, which sounds like the best solution.

Since I am learning, I have just been making 5X7's, and with the lens stopped down all the way (f/16) I still need a rather short exposure (< 10 sec). I am hoping the filters will let me use a significantly longer time, so I have better control.

I will experiment some more tonight.

Randy

Yes the contrast filters will make a big difference to the exposure times.
But if they are still too long, which they may be for small print sizes at f4 or f5.6, you should get a sheet of "Lee Filters" neutral density lighting filter which is cheap. It comes in 0.3 which gives a 1 stop reduction in light. You can cut this to fit your filter drawer and use in combination with your contrast filters to further reduce brightness. And you can use several layers if necessary.
Note the Lee Filter lighting filters are not optically good so can only be used above the lens and not below.