Photographic Reduction and Intensification

What if I used a meter and the darn thing broke on me when I was out making photographs Then what would I do  

Most photographers have, at one time or another, created masterpieces of over- or underexposure, over- or underdevelopment, and sometimes both Not all negatives can be saved, but the techniques of reduction and intensification may prove to be just the tonic to reclaim what, undoubtedly, would have been the best photograph ever created. Even if the negative is printable, reduction and intensification techniques can often improve slight miscalculations in exposure or development. 

Reducers are classified into three general types  

Proportional reducers decrease the image density throughout the film in proportion to the amount of silver already deposited. The effect is similar to giving the film less development. Kodak R-4b Farmer s Proportional Reducer for Overdeveloped Negative is most commonly used. 

Super-proportional reducers have a considerable effect on highlight areas but a negligible effect on shadow densities. They are the most unpredictable and should be used with appropriate caution. Super-proportional reducers are used when a greater reduction in contrast is desired than can be achieved with cutting reducers. Kodak R-15 for extreme overdevelopment is an example of a super-proportional reducer. 

---

For instructions on bleaching see Chapter 11 Photographic Reduction and Intensification. 

---