Analog color photography, RA4 process

Register Not scheduled

Code Completion Credits Range Language Instruction Semester
307DBAF credit 3 30 workshop hours (45 min) of instruction per semester, 53 to 68 hours of self-study English, Czech summer

Subject guarantor

Martin STECKER

Name of lecturer(s)

Jan DOUŠA, Martin STECKER

Department

The subject provides Department of Photography

Contents

The course will consist of the following steps:

1/ theoretical preparation

2/ mixing and application of solutions

3/ introduction to the functions of the processing machine and setting the required values

4/ demonstration of color analyzer calibration and discussion of the obtained results

5/ demonstrations of result correction options based on visual assessment and finalization

6/ demonstration of working with a Chamonix 11×14 inch ultra large-format camera

7/ demonstration of procedures for paper inversion, black-and-white development,

secondary exposure, and subsequent processing using standard machine development

8/ independent creative work

Workshop is for students: 2nd and 3rd year Bc. + 1st and 2nd year Mg.

Learning outcomes

This workshop aims to introduce students to the process of developing color positive papers using the hot RA-4 process in a Thermaphot ACP 502 color processing machine. An integral part of the workshop is learning to operate a color analyzer to determine correct exposure and color filtration.

To achieve accurate color rendition in the negative–positive process, we will work in the subtractive CMY mode. On a theoretical level, students will also be introduced to the RGB process.

The workshop will also include the opportunity to try the inversion system when working with color paper negatives. The knowledge gained will primarily serve students in considering ways to apply this technology in their own creative work or other projects.

Prerequisites and other requirements

Workshop is for students: 2nd and 3rd year Bc. + 1st and 2nd year Mg.

Literature

Šmok, Pecák, Tausk: Barevná fotografie SNTL 1978

Kolektiv autorů: Technické základy fotografie, KFŽ 2002

Jan Pohribný: Kreativní barva ve fotografii, Zoner Press 2016

Kolektiv autorů: Color Photography, ASSOULINE 2001

Hattersley, Ralph: Beginner’s Guide to Color Darkroom Techniques, Dolphin b., 1982

Grimm and Burchfield:The Basic Darkroom Book: A Complete Guide to Processing & Printing Color and Black‑and‑White Photographs, Plume / Pinguin, 1978–1999 (various editions)

Evaluation methods and criteria

course credit for active participation

Note

Mode of study:

intensive block course

Beroun: 24 - 27. 2. 2026

Further information

No schedule has been prepared for this course

The subject is a part of the following study plans