Last Updated 00/08/04 1300PST
Sepia look in Super 8
by Martin W. Baumgarten © 2000
You can filter color film using a Cokin or similar "sepia" filter, or using B&W film and processing it yourself you can use the sulfide redeveloper method. If you filter the film while projecting it, you'll lose valuable light going to your screen...however....if you're projecting on a smaller size screen and/or using a glass beaded screen then the image should still be quite useable.
It does look very interesting, and used tastefully can add an antique/period type look to a given film, or a type of atmosphere that isn't present in the general cold B&W tone of conventionally processed B&W reversal films. I presently do not offer this service. I'm planning on offering it again in the future...but discontinued it due to a general lack of interest. I've had to drop various services over the years, since I effectively only have so much time as it is to get all the film processing done. As far as requirements...and B&W Kodak type film and some others can be sepia toned during processing as part of the processing. The major change is in the Re-Developer step where the film is processed in Sodium Sulfide mixed as follows:
Kodak SULFIDE RE-DEVELOPER T-19
Kodak Sodium Sulfide (Anhydrous).......................20.0 grams 2 oz 290 grains [that's SULFIDE, not Sulfite!!] Water to make..........................................1 Liter 1 Gallon
Add the Sodium Sulfide to the total amount of water at working temperature of 68°F/20°C or anywhere in the range of 66°F to 75°F. The smell is that of rotten eggs and if mixed any warmer, the odor will chase you out of your darkroom. Use ventilation, plenty of it....not for health but for comfort.
NOTE: This developer can be used when reversal re-exposure isn't possible, AND, you don't mind a sepia-colored (toned) image. This yields a sepia-colored image WITHOUT need for re-exposure of the film. Use for 2 minutes in Rack & Tank OR Reel & Trough equipment, OR Rewind Tank.
Also....you can use the Sepia Developer portion of the 2-step Sepia Toner Bath for B&W photographic prints.....if you aren't able to locate any Sodium Sulfide.
If there were enough interest to warrant setting up the processing step again...I might consider it. I'll be evaluating this and other discontinued services later this year sometime. If you process your own B&W Super 8mm films....just use the above formula information.
Best wishes,
Martin W. Baumgarten
Visit Martin's WWW site at:
Plattsburgh Photographic Services