Cross-processing is a photographic technique where one film is processed in the chemical solution intended for another, resulting in striking color shifts and higher contrasts. There are two main methods, and it can also be done digitally. The technique can also be used in movies and TV shows.
Cross-processing is a photographic developing technique in which one type of film is processed in the chemical solution intended for another type of film. This process can alter photos producing striking color shifts and higher contrasts. There are two main methods of the cross-processing technique: a procedure which creates a negative image on a colorless base and a procedure which influences a positive image with the orange base of a conventionally processed color negative.
The early 1960s saw the first instances of photos resulting from cross-processing. The Kodak company first recognized the technique as an alternative way to process photos and released instructions with the film detailing the procedure. Cross-processing was first presented to a worldwide audience in National Geographic magazine.
Of the two main types of cross-processing, the most common is the processing of color slide film in chemicals traditionally used in the photographic developing process known as C-41. Since the C-41 solution was not intended for color slide film, the resulting negative has variations in color and saturation from the original negative. The precise degree of these changes and the intensity of the color variations varies with the brand and speed of film selected.
The other type of cross-processing involves developing color print film in chemical solutions for the E-6 developing process. In standard E-6 processing, an image is produced by the initial formation of a silver image, which is then replaced with a colored dye. When color printing film is used in E-6 chemicals, a different effect is achieved. A positive image appears on the orange base of the negative, greatly altering the colors and contrasts.
Cross-processing techniques are widely used in photo software. Many of these technological photo tools allow users to enhance digital photos by selecting variations in color and saturation. Unlike traditional modes, this approach allows users to select the exact degree of tonal and contrast shifts they want to see in the finished photos. There are also photography-focused websites that allow users to upload photos and apply cross-processing effects.
However, the technique is not limited to photographic film. Movies and TV shows can also be processed using these types of procedures. The company’s products produce highly stylized programs, with powerful color diffusion and shifting of saturation levels. This overall effect increases the intensity of the texture and enhances the cinematography.
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