Tips
Some general recommendations follow.> It is recommended that this process be learned using 4x5 negatives. In this way it should cost less to master the process, and the prints should still be of a large enough size to evaluate. The 4x5 size negative is also the easiest to individually process.
> Go easy with filters on the camera. This process can discriminate extremely subtle differences in tonality. What may call for a #8 filter in silver printing may only require a #3 filter in this process. (Note: If heavily filtered dark skies are what's wanted, print them in gelatin silver. The results will be much better. One should always take advantage of the particular nuances any process or material has to offer.)
> The negative should be made in agreement with the process as well as the subject. The platinum palladium process utilizes more of the negative's information demanding a more carefully controlled negative. It is a advisable that one complete the Matrix described in the Negative Control section. With this process there is little room for exposure or development error if the highest quality and full advantage of the unique attributes are expected.
> The amount of UV light required to print a platinum-palladium photograph dictates that the most efficient method of exposure be contact printing. An enlarger lamp would likely cause damage to the negative before enough light could expose the print or take an extremely long time. Enlarged prints can be made however, by building large negatives. In order to get the proper densities in these negatives (which also require masking), a good understanding of the platinum-palladium process is required. It is recommended that one first master negative control and printing before attempting negative building.
> The sooner one moves away from using kits, the better. Better still, DON'T USE KITS. Kits or pre coated material deprives one of some of the essential elements and understanding of platinum-palladium printmaking.
> Some kit materials can be put into use or modified so as to not go to waste. See the section Modifying an Existing Solution.
> The intent of this guide is that when starting out, one could do exactly and only exactly as in this guide and learn to make quality Pt/Pd prints. It is recommended to not change anything until that which is specified is mastered. A check to see if one is ready to modify or deviate is that they have mastered enough to throw away this Guide and write their own.
> Always remember, if one does not get CONSISTENT results, then THEY must be doing something incorrect. With the proper control, this process is very consistent.