Weird color cast on Polaroid tests

[z_z1]

I am using Polacolor ASA 100 single sheet Polaroids for tests. The

last batch I did had a red cast to them and seemed to dark no matter

how much development time I gave them.

 

Any suggestions?

 

Eric

[john_mcdonald]

I would only use Polaroid, as a testing material, to view lighting

ratios�not for balancing color, and not for determining

exposure. For judging ratios, I use the black and white material

(PP100) intended for proofing for color transparency work. It

works very well.

[alan_schietzsch]

I use the B&W for exposure testing, too. It gives a much better idea of

contrast and density than the colour stuff.

 

I find colour Polaroid materials are VERY sensitive to development

temperature and time; I find they're often a bit cyan when cold, and I like toi

develop them longer than the info sheet suggests.

 

Try a few variations and see what works for your circumstance.

[paul moshay]

I use the Polaroid PolaPro100 B&W for testing lighting and exposure for

Ektachrome, it is quite accurate as a "light meter" and confirms the meter

readings I get with the Minolta IV. The color Polaroid doesn't work at all for

that use. Also, the color stuff never looks sharp in focus. I showed it to a client

and she thought the chromes would be soft so I never did that again. (the

chromes were sharp)!

Paul Moshay

[light-zone]

Yes, black and white polaroid is the better choice for checking lighting, contrast and sharpness. If you want a better color polaroid, try the Fuji FP100, but it only comes in packfilm, I believe.

Tends to run a little magenta, but is overall MUCH better than polaroid (IMO).

[ellis_vener_photography]

While Polaroid is a different medium from film, and I agree about evrything

being said about the utility of B&W Polaroid materials (I like Type 55 as I also

use the negative to check focus), not shooting color Polaroid at some point in

the proofing process makes no sense, if you are shooting color film as a final

medium. You need to see in color, even ifthe palette and contrast range are

different. You need to see how the colors of your set up work together.

[scott walton]

Typically a red cast on a Polaroid is when you pull the medium apart to soon. If your outside and it is cold, put it inside your jacket or you'll have to add considerable time to the development. If your in the studio, put it close to a hot light and let it cure. I have done this many times with great success. Polaroid Pro 100 B/W should be cheaper though.

[tedharris]

Also remember that some of the Polaroid color emulsions are VERY sensitive

to exposure times recommending ~1/125 second.

[per_volquartz1]

Forget about using Polacolor to check for color balance or exposure.

Instead use type 55 BW, even if you dont use the neg. When holding the positive up to a light sourse you can tell if you have enough exposure in the shadow areas.