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How to Enlarge a C-41 Negative

Color photography enlarging and printing can be a tricky past time; adjusting the color channels to the correct settings to create the perfect picture takes some practice. But when it is done correctly, you will be proud to know that you printed the picture yourself. C-41 negatives are color negatives that can be printed on color paper. The color processing chemicals can be purchased at most photography retailers or they can be ordered if not in stock.

Things You'll Need

Color photo enlarger
Color photo chemistry
Color photo developing drum
Paper easel
Grain focuser

Instructions

- 1
  Prepare the color processing chemicals as per the instructions on the individual bottles. The temperature of the chemistry and the time the paper is in each one is very critical to the success of your enlargement.
- 2
  Place the color negative into the negative carrier for the enlarger. Place the negative carrier into the enlarger and press the "On" button to illuminate the image on the easel.
- 3
  Loosen the locking knob on the side of the enlarger and raise the enlarger to the height needed for the desired enlargement. Most easels will have indication lines for the different sizes of enlargements. Place a grain focuser on the easel, look through the eyepiece, and adjust the focusing knob on the enlarger until the image is in focus.
- 4
  Turn the enlarger off and place the sheet of color paper into the easel. Set the time on the enlarger and press start. The enlarger will come on for the length of time to properly expose the paper. Remove the paper place into the developing drum and add the chemistry in the correct order and for the correct amount of time.
- 5
  Remove the paper from the drum and allow it to dry. Inspect the final enlargement, and if satisfied, place it into a frame or mount it.

Photography