Film & darkroom
Put the important face in the exposure test
Do not test only a convenient empty corner.
An exposure test should include the part of the portrait you most need to evaluate.
Choose the useful region
Inspect the projected image and identify the face or other important detail. ILFORD recommends an exposure-testing region representative of the image or its most important area. Keep the enlargement and other relevant settings consistent during the test so its result applies to the planned print.
Evidence: Manufacturer guidance
Check the complete proof
After choosing a promising test, process a full proof using the documented paper workflow. Inspect the rest of the portrait and borders too. A small region can answer one exposure question while missing another part of the image that needs attention. Record both the test choice and final result.
Sources & further reading
Sources for the specific facts and product descriptions above. Our worked examples, interpretations and practical suggestions are original editorial guidance.
- ILFORD PHOTO — exposure testingManufacturer guidance