Ilford Multigrade is a brand of black-and-white photographic paper produced by Ilford Photo, a well-known manufacturer of photographic products. Multigrade paper is designed for darkroom printing in black-and-white photography.
What makes Ilford Multigrade unique is its ability to produce a wide range of contrast grades from a single type of paper. This is achieved through the use of variable contrast technology, which allows photographers to control the paper’s contrast by using specific filters or adjustments during the printing process.
The Multigrade system typically uses a series of contrast control filters, often referred to as Multigrade or Ilford Multigrade filters. These filters are placed in the enlarger’s light path during the printing process, and they enable the photographer to adjust the contrast of the print to their liking. Different grades are achieved by using different combinations of these filters.
Ilford Multigrade paper has been a popular choice for photographers in the darkroom because of its versatility and the ability to fine-tune the contrast of their prints. While digital photography has become dominant, traditional darkroom techniques and products like Ilford Multigrade continue to have a dedicated following among photographers who enjoy the hands-on, analog process of creating black-and-white prints.
Multigrade filters are typically made of gelatin or other materials and are available in various grades, each corresponding to a specific contrast level. Multigrade filters are placed in the light path of the enlarger during the printing process to control the contrast of the final print.
How Multigrade Filters Work
The primary purpose of Multigrade filters is to match the contrast of the print to the contrast of the negative. If you have a negative with high contrast, you would use a lower-numbered filter to produce a print with reduced contrast. Conversely, for a low-contrast negative, you would use a higher-numbered filter to increase contrast.
Multigrade filters are usually labeled with numbers, such as 0, 00, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, etc., with higher numbers indicating higher contrast.
Filters with lower numbers (e.g., 0 or 00) produce lower contrast prints, while higher-numbered filters (e.g., 4 or 5) produce higher contrast prints.
The filters work by selectively blocking or transmitting different wavelengths of light to the photographic paper. The amount and type of light allowed to pass through the filter affect the paper’s sensitivity to contrast.
Ilford Multigrade Filter Kit. The set consists of 11x filters plus the Red filter
How to make a print using Multigrade photographic paper
Developing a black-and-white print using Multigrade photographic paper in a traditional darkroom involves several steps. Here’s a general overview of the process:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Multigrade Photographic Paper: Make sure you have the type and size of Multigrade paper you want to use.
- Darkroom Enlarger: This is used to project the image from the negative onto the paper.
- Contrast Control Filters: Ilford Multigrade filters or similar filters to adjust the contrast.
- Enlarger Timer: For controlling the exposure time.
- Developer, Stop Bath, Fixer: Chemicals for processing the print.
- Trays: For holding and processing the chemicals.
- Safelight: A red or orange safelight for working in the darkroom.
- Thermometer: To ensure chemicals are at the correct temperature.
- Print Tongs: For handling the paper and chemicals.
- Print Washer: For washing the print after fixing.
- Drying Rack: To allow the print to dry without being touched.
Steps for Developing a Print:
- Prepare the Darkroom:
- Ensure the darkroom is completely dark, except for the safelight.
- Set up your materials within easy reach.
- Enlarger Setup:
- Place your negative in the enlarger’s negative carrier.
- Set the enlarger height and focus to get the desired image size and sharpness.
- Install the appropriate contrast control filter for the desired contrast grade.
- Adjust the enlarger timer for the exposure time.
- Paper Exposure:
- Load a sheet of Multigrade paper into the easel, making sure it’s flat and secure.
- Turn off the safelight and turn on the enlarger.
- Expose the paper by turning on the enlarger for the preset time. This time can vary based on your negative, paper type, and desired print density.
- Turn off the enlarger.
- Paper Development:
- In total darkness, place the exposed paper in the developer tray.
- Agitate the tray gently to ensure even development.
- Monitor the paper, and development time can vary (usually around 1-2 minutes) based on your developer and desired look.
- When the image appears to be properly developed, move the print to the stop bath tray to halt development.
- Stop Bath and Fixing:
- Agitate the paper in the stop bath for about 30 seconds.
- Transfer the print to the fixer tray and agitate for the recommended fixer time (usually around 2-5 minutes) until the print is no longer cloudy when viewed under safelight.
- Rinse and Wash:
- Rinse the print in a tray of clean, running water or use a print washer for about 20-30 minutes to remove fixer chemicals thoroughly.
- Drying:
- Hang the washed print on a drying rack or place it on a clean, dry surface to air dry. Be careful not to touch the wet emulsion.
- Inspect and Finalize:
- Once the print is dry, inspect it for any flaws or imperfections.
- If necessary, you can spot-tone or retouch the print using appropriate tools and chemicals in the darkroom.
Remember that the specific details may vary depending on the paper, chemicals, and equipment you are using. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and be patient and methodical in your darkroom work to achieve the desired results. Darkroom printing is both a skill and an art, and practice will improve your abilities over time.
Which Multigrade paper to use?
Ilford’s “Delux” and “Portfolio” ranges are designed for specific applications, while the terms “pearl,” “glossy,” and “satin” refer to the surface finishes of these papers. Here’s an explanation of the differences and when to use each type:
Surface Finishes: Pearl, Gloss and Satin
Pearl: Pearl finish paper has a slightly textured surface that falls between glossy and matte in terms of reflectivity. It offers a compromise between the vibrant, high-contrast look of glossy paper and the reduced glare of matte paper. It provides a pleasing balance between glossiness and matte texture.Pearl is a popular choice for a wide range of photographic subjects and is often used for both color and black-and-white prints. Use Pearl Finish when you want a versatile paper that works well with a wide range of subjects.
Glossy: Glossy paper has a highly reflective, smooth surface that produces deep blacks and vivid colors. It provides a sharp and vibrant appearance but is susceptible to glare and fingerprints. Glossy paper is well-suited for images where you want maximum contrast and detail, such as high-impact photographs. Use Glossy Finish when you want to emphasize high contrast, sharpness, and vivid colors. Glossy paper is excellent for images where you want to make details pop.
Satin: Satin finish paper has a surface that is less reflective than glossy but smoother than matte. It strikes a balance between the two, offering good color vibrancy and detail while reducing glare. Satin is suitable for a wide range of images, including portraits, landscapes, and commercial photography. Use Satin Finish when you prefer a compromise between glossiness and matte, reducing glare while maintaining good color vibrancy and detail.
Ilford Delux vs. Portfolio Range of photographic paper
The Ilford Delux range typically refers to a line of high-quality photographic papers designed for premium printing applications. These papers are often chosen for their archival properties, color accuracy, and fine art print quality. The choice within the Delux range may include different surface finishes like glossy, satin, or pearl, allowing you to select the finish that best suits your image and preferences.
The Portfolio range from Ilford is generally designed for professional photographers and artists seeking consistent, reliable results in various printing applications. The Portfolio range may include a variety of papers with different characteristics, including surface finishes and paper weights, to cater to different needs.
Ilford Multigrade photographic paper is available in various sizes and two primary paper qualities: fiber-based (FB) and resin-coated (RC). Here are some common sizes and paper qualities for Ilford Multigrade:
Fiber-Based (FB) Multigrade:
- 8×10 inches: This is a standard and popular size for traditional darkroom printing.
- 11×14 inches: A larger format preferred for exhibition-quality prints.
- 16×20 inches: Even larger for more significant and impactful prints.
- 20×24 inches: Used for large, high-quality prints or exhibition pieces.
- 24×30 inches: An even larger size suitable for large-format printing.
Resin-Coated (RC) Multigrade:
- 5×7 inches: A smaller size often used for test prints and smaller projects.
- 8×10 inches: A standard size for darkroom printing, widely used for various applications.
- 11×14 inches: A larger format for high-quality prints and enlargements.
- 16×20 inches: Larger for more significant and more detailed prints.
- 20×24 inches: A large format suitable for exhibition-quality prints.
Paper quality can also vary within these sizes. Fiber-based paper is known for its superior archival properties and texture, making it ideal for fine art printing. Resin-coated paper, on the other hand, is easier to work with, dries faster, and is often used for test prints and when speed is essential. The choice of paper quality depends on the photographer’s preferences and the intended use of the print.
Why use variable contrast paper?
Using variable contrast paper, such as Ilford Multigrade, offers several advantages for black-and-white darkroom printing:
Flexibility in Contrast Control: Variable contrast paper allows you to produce a wide range of contrast grades from a single type of paper. This means you can adjust the contrast of your prints to match the specific requirements of each image. Whether you have a high-contrast or low-contrast negative, you can fine-tune the print to achieve the desired look.
Creative Control: Variable contrast paper gives you creative control over the final appearance of your prints. You can experiment with different contrast grades to enhance the mood, texture, and overall visual impact of your images. This flexibility is especially valuable for photographers who want to express their artistic vision through the print.
Saves Time and Resources: Instead of stocking multiple types of paper with fixed contrast grades, you can use a single variable contrast paper. This saves you both money and storage space. It also simplifies your darkroom workflow, as you don’t need to switch between different papers for different negatives.
Consistency: With variable contrast paper, you can achieve consistent results across different printing sessions and projects. This is particularly important for photographers who need to create a series of prints with consistent contrast characteristics.
Adaptable to Different Negatives: When working with a variety of negatives, including those from different films or with varying contrast characteristics, variable contrast paper can adapt to each negative’s specific needs. This adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of photographic styles and subjects.
Easier Dodging and Burning: When you need to selectively lighten or darken areas of a print (dodging and burning), variable contrast paper allows you to do this with greater precision. The ability to control contrast grades enables you to make subtle adjustments to specific areas of the image.
Experimentation: Variable contrast paper encourages experimentation in the darkroom. Photographers can push the boundaries of traditional printing techniques, trying different filter combinations to achieve unique and striking effects in their prints.
Suitable for Learning: For beginners in darkroom printing, variable contrast paper can simplify the process by eliminating the need to choose from various paper grades. It allows beginners to focus on other aspects of darkroom techniques while still having control over contrast.
Variable contrast paper provides photographers with the flexibility, control, and creative freedom to produce high-quality black-and-white prints that match their artistic vision and the unique characteristics of their negatives. It’s a valuable tool for both experienced darkroom printers and those new to the craft.
Visit the Ilford store on Amazon
Related stories
How To Make A Print Using Multigrade Filters And Paper
Using Ilford Multigrade developer chemicals in the darkroom
History of variable contrast paper in the darkroom
Guide to Collecting Vintage Film Cameras
Hasselblad camera ° medium format film camera
Polaroid Land cameras ° Polaroid instant camera
Nikonos III 35mm underwater film camera
FEATURE: Collecting Old & Vintage Photographs
Ilford Multigrade Contrast Filters and Holder Set
