Bleaching prints seems to be an area where alot of photographers are interested in techniques for utilizing this tool but real good information is difficult to come by. No disrespect to Mr. Fishback's recent article, which is as good as most of the articles available on the subject. I am not sure the information given would encourage me to try this technique if I had never done it before. It was always a mystery to me, more like some special magic that only came with years of experience, until I watched a demonstration by John Sexton. John's approach was very straight forward with easily found over the counter supplies. I am interested in the thoughts and methods used by others on this technique of bleaching.

-- Jeff White (zonie@computer-concepts.com), June 04, 1998

Answers

Although I have read many articles and been taught to use fix during the application of potassium ferricyanide (bleach), I do not. I have a tray of water with a sponge within easy reach of my work area. After I each application of bleach, I douse the area with water, diluting the bleach down to no appreciable activity. I then remove excess water, assess if more bleaching is desired and repeat the process if necessary. It is important to try not to bleach too much; it must be a deliberate, stepped process. I use bleach to bring out local highlights and raise local contrast. I usually find bleaching to be more effective and accurate than dodging; dodging will, many times, result in obvious halos around areas that could more effectively be bleached. I only bleach fully fixed images and do not fix again after bleaching; I go from bleaching directly to my print-washing regimen. I have never had a problem with this method. As far as concentration of solution, it depends on what paper is being used. I have found that Forte fiber papers respond well to the suggested dilution of 1/4 tsp. bleach to 8 oz. water, but Ilford fiber papers are more stubborn so I usually double the strength of the solution.

Thanks and good luck, Jon

-- Jon J. Eilenberg (jon.eilenberg@westgroup.com), June 08, 1998.