Cross Processing

Cross processing is a term associated with photo printing that produces a weird effect to the pictures. Cross processing is the deliberate procedure of photographic film processing in an improper chemical solution. In the processing of color reversal films, the negative color print film is processed in E-6 process (a process for developing Fujichrome, Ektachrome, and other color reversal photographic film) chemicals. In the processing of color print films, the method adopted for cross processing is the positive color reversal film processing in C-41 process (also termed as CNK-4 by Konica, CN-16 by Fuji, and AP-70 by AGFA) chemicals.

The cross processing color slide film has been traditionally produced by C-41 process chemicals. The cross processing takes in form by many other processes. For instance, negative color print film or positive color reversal film in a black and white developer can also be adopted for cross processing.

With the application of cross processing, photographs of unearthly colors and high contrast can be produced. Depending on the type of film used and the exposure of light, the variety of cross processing differs.

With the advent of digital photography, cross processing is making further effect. The image editors like Adobe Photoshop or GIMP are being worked upon at a massive scale for the production of more cross processing effects.