Table of contentsClick link to navigate to the desired location
This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
Analog photography – is not only about accuracy and classic shots, but also about experiments, unexpected colors and an artistic approach. One of the most interesting and unexpected methods of manifestation is cross-processing (Cross-processing or X-Pro). It is a technique that allows you to get psychedelic colors, high contrast and surreal shades that cannot be reproduced in a normal digital process.
What is cross-processing?
Cross-processing – is a method of developing photographic film in an "incorrect" chemical solution. Initially, colored photographic film was created for development in a certain process, but chemists and photographers discovered that using a different developer gives completely unique results.
Main X-Pro variants:
- Developing a slide film (E-6) in chemistry for a color negative film (C-41)
- Development of color negative film (C-41) in slide chemistry (E-6)
The first – method is the most popular and gives the same acid shades, bright colors and contrast that are associated with X-Pro.
How does it work?
Each type of film has unique emulsions and color layers that respond to specific chemical processes. When developing a film in the "wrong" way, these layers behave unpredictably:
🎨 Non-standard colors <TAG1> green becomes turquoise, red – dark orange, blue – ultraviolet.
🌈 Increased contrast and saturation <TAG1> pictures become more expressive, sometimes reminiscent of shots from old movies.
💥 Yellow or blue shade of shadows and light areas <TAG1> in some cases light areas get a warm color, and shadows – are cold.
🌀 Grunge effect <TAG1> occasional artifacts, spots, or even "light leaks" appear.
Films that give the best results in X-Pro
📷 Kodak Elite Chrome 100 <TAG1> is one of the classic options for cross-processing, giving rich red and yellow tones.
📷 Fuji Velvia 50 /100 <TAG1> is known for its deep green and blue colors after X-Pro.
📷 Fuji Provia 100F <TAG1> adds a light blue-green tint and makes the contrast sharper.
📷 Agfa Precisa 100 <TAG1> enhances magenta and turquoise colors, creating a surreal look.
📷 Lomography X-Pro 200 <TAG1> is specially designed for cross-processing, with bright yellow and orange tones.
How to make an X-Pro yourself?
- Select Slide Film (E-6) <TAG1> is the most common option for experiments.
- Find a photo lab or develop it yourself <TAG1> in some labs may opt out of X-Pro, so it's best to ask ahead of time.
- Use C-41 instead of E-6 <TAG1> just tell the lab to develop the slide film in C-41.
- Scan and experiment with colors <TAG1> after development can additionally play with colors during scanning, adjusting the white balance.
Why should you try cross-processing?
- Unpredictable results <TAG1> each roll of film manifests itself differently, which adds an element of creative chaos.
- Artistic expressiveness <TAG1> X-Pro gives effects that cannot be simulated in digital applications.
- The atmosphere of retro films <TAG1> bright contrasts and rich colors resemble the style of the 90s.
- Surrealism and experiments <TAG1> this method is ideal for portrait, fashion and street photography.
Cross-processing is the magic of analog photography, which allows you to see the world in new, unexpected colors. It's a great way to add expression to your shots and make your photography more artistic. If you want to experiment and get unique shots, X-Pro is exactly what you need!
This post doesn't have any additions from the author yet.
