Kodak PC2 Polycontrast Acetate Filter: Darkroom Printing Tips

Quick answer

The Kodak PC2 Polycontrast Acetate Filter lets you adjust contrast when printing black and white negatives under an enlarger. Use it with variable contrast paper to achieve softer or harder prints without changing paper grades.

How to use the Kodak PC2 Polycontrast Acetate Filter

1. Set up your enlarger: Insert your negative into the enlarger and compose the image on the easel. Focus the image as usual. Make sure the enlarger lens is clean and the aperture is set to your preferred working stop, typically f/8 or f/11. A common mistake is forgetting to stop down the lens after focusing, which can lead to overexposed prints.
2. Place the filter under the lens: Slide the Kodak PC2 polycontrast acetate filter into the filter drawer or holder under the enlarger lens. If your enlarger lacks a drawer, hold the filter directly under the lens, ensuring it is flat and centered. The filter changes the light color to control contrast on variable contrast paper. Check that the filter is clean and free of dust or scratches, as these can show up on the print.
3. Choose the correct filter grade: Select the filter grade based on your negative contrast. A grade 2 filter (included) works well for normal contrast negatives. For softer prints with more detail in shadows, use a lower grade (e.g., 0 or 1). For harder prints with more snap, use a higher grade (e.g., 3 or 4). If your test strip shows too little contrast, switch to a higher grade; if highlights are blocked up, use a lower grade.
4. Make a test strip: Expose a test strip on a small piece of variable contrast paper using your chosen filter grade. Develop the strip normally to see if exposure and contrast are correct. Adjust exposure time or filter grade as needed. Always process the test strip fully before judging contrast—underdeveloped strips can look flat.
5. Make the final print: Once you are satisfied with the test strip, expose a full sheet of variable contrast paper using the same filter grade and exposure time. Develop, stop, and fix the print according to your chemistry instructions. Handle the filter carefully to avoid fingerprints, which can cause uneven contrast across the print.

Product facts

• Kodak PC2 Polycontrast Acetate Filter - USED: Used product, fully tested as working, comes with 90 day warranty. In good used condition with one 4x5 inch filter and grade 2 contrast filter. You get a reliable, pre-tested filter at a lower price than new, with a warranty for peace of mind. The included grade 2 filter covers a common contrast range for many negatives.