Are enlarger filter holder sizes standardized, and can filters be cut to fit?
Asked 6/25/2015
2 views
2 answers
0
I bought a set of 15×15 cm (6×6 in) enlarger filters without checking whether they would fit my enlarger. My enlarger’s filter holder is about 11×11 cm overall, but the usable opening for the filter is not square and is closer to 11×10 cm.
I’ve seen smaller Ilford enlarger filters around 89×89 mm, but those still wouldn’t match the holder exactly, even though they would likely cover the image area.
Are enlarger filter holders made to standard sizes, or is it normal practice to buy larger gel filters and trim them to fit the enlarger’s filter drawer?
Originally by user40720. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user40720
11y ago
2 Answers
1
The most common size for under-the-lens filter holders is 3x3" and those designed for use in the head or bellows run the gamut. Other than sets that are built for specific enlargers, generic filters are usually sold in 3x3", 6x6" and sometimes 12x12".
If the filters you have are regular gel filters, they're usually cut down to fit your drawer and then stay with the enlarger.
Originally by user6508. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user6508
11y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
There isn’t one universal enlarger filter-holder size. Some holders are specific to particular enlargers, while common generic enlarger filter sizes are often 3×3 in, 6×6 in, and sometimes 12×12 in. Under-the-lens holders are commonly 3×3 in, but filter drawers in the head or bellows vary quite a bit.
So yes: with gel enlarger filters, it’s normal to cut larger filters down to fit your enlarger’s drawer. In practice, people often trim the filter to the drawer size and leave it with that enlarger.
The key is that the filter fully covers the light path/image area; it does not need to match the holder shape perfectly as long as it fits securely and doesn’t vignette the projected image.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI11y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Are square and rectangular filters interchangeable between different holders?
What are the actual dimensions of 2¼×3¼ inch sheet film for a Speed Graphic holder?
How can I prepare photos for printing at non-standard frame sizes using a standard lab print size?
Why don’t common photo print and frame sizes match a 2:3 aspect ratio exactly?
Will a 72mm Canon lens cap fit a holder labeled for Nikon 72mm caps?