How to use a color analyzer



Before making a color print, you need to make a few test prints to determine the correct filtration and exposure. Color analyzers are used to calculate exposure time and find correct filtration which can help you save time and money. Analyzers measure the intensity of the three primary colors, red, blue, and green light in the image. Once calibrated, the analyzer compares your images with the test negative or slide to give the correct exposure and filtration's . You must calibrate your analyzer before using it. Make a test print of a negative or slide which has average tonality, one that is not too dark or too light, and doesn't include very strong colors.

Once you achieve perfect result, place the analyzer's probe under your enlarger and take an integrated or spot reading. Don't change any of the enlarger settings (height, filters, lens aperture) or you won't get accurate results. Turn the exposure and filtration dials on the analyzer to the settings you used to make your test print. Your analyzer is now calibrated for the type of paper you used to make your test print.

Keep in mind if you change paper brands, you must make a new test and calibrate your analyzer to get accurate result for the new paper. To make a print using your analyzer, place the probe under the enlarger, and take yellow, magenta, and cyan reading by changing filters on your color head or enlarger filter holder. When analyzer shows a zero reading, you are ready to expose the paper. You can take two kinds of readings with color analyzers, integrated or spot. This is much like your camera's centerweighted and spot metering. Integrated readings are used to take an overall reading by placing a diffuser under the lens. The diffuser spreads light from the image which gives good results most of the time. If your image includes strong colors or uneven lighting, spot reading should be used instead of integrated. Place the probe under the enlarger without the diffuser and take a reading from the most important part of the image. Like camera meters, color analyzers give good results most of the time, but you may need to make some adjustments when working with very bright or dark subjects. In this case, use your analyzer to get a starting point and make necessary adjustments. Color analyzers can also be used for determining correct exposure for black and white prints as well as controlling contrast. Color analyzers are excellent accessories and if used correctly, can speed up your printing and save you money in the long run. See also Timers & analyzers