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Multi-grade or Multi-contrast Paper: This type of paper has all the contrast grades built into the one paper and the change of contrast is achieved through inserting appropriate colour filters in the light source.

There are certain advantages of this type of paper, and the obvious one is that the photographer need only stock one packet or box of paper, and yet have to potential of a range of grades. Also the range of grades is extended with filters that allow half grades, where with graded paper this could only be achieved through altering the concentration or type of developer.

Ilford Multi grade paper

Most such papers are coated with two emulsion layers. One sensitive to yellow-green light yields low contrast: the other, sensitive to blue violet light produces high contrast. The degree of contrast is varied simply by using the appropriate coloured filter to block the light from the emulsion layer that is not intended to be exposed while letting through light that will effect the other.

By selecting the right filter, which generally run from grade 00 in half grade step up to 5 or 6 in half grades, the photographer can produce a print with the desired tone. It is also possible to print sections of the one print at various grades by dodging various areas of the print while using different filters. This can add contrast in one area while softening another.

Filtration need to alter the light to create the desired paper grade can either be dialed in through dichroic filters built into a colour head of the enlarger or added in a filter draw as individual filters such as these Ilford filters. With colour heads, the photographer needs to find a chart that locates the filter settings as grades.

These multi contrast filters come in grades 00- 5
Move over image to view roll over image

While multi grade filters offer an easy means of controlling variations of tone, some photographer prefer to use a graded paper. Because this paper only has the one emulsion layer it tends to react more predictably to variations in developer and toning situations.

There are Multi contrast filters that side into a fitting screwed onto the bottom of the lens. However because these fit under the lens any defects can effect the quality of the enlarged image.

A full set of Multi Contrast filters that fit under the enlarging lens.

By using a technique called Split Contrast Printing, this type of paper also allows the photographer to print selective areas of a print on different grades. Here an area is dodged using one grade and then selectively burnt in using another.

The key is having an insight into the difference and being able to make an educated choice of paper grade for a particular image.

Filter Draws