contact printing

photography

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Last updated

June 24, 2026

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Contact printing is a photographic technique where a photographic negative is placed directly in contact with a light-sensitive paper, plate, or film. This method produces a positive image that is the same size as the negative. The simplest equipment for this process is a contact printing frame, which holds the negative and paper together during exposure to a light source. This technique has been used since at least 1890. While contact screens are a more recent advancement in halftone processes, they are used differently and are not directly related to the basic contact printing method described.1234

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motion-picture technology
Film processing and printing
In contact printing, the master film (or negative) is pressed against the raw stock; this combination is exposed to light on the master film side. In optical printing, the master film is projected through a lens to expose the raw stock. In continuous printing, the master…
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In contact printing, the master film (or negative) is pressed against the raw stock; this combination is exposed to light on the master film side. In optical printing, the master film is projected through a lens to expose the raw stock. In continuous printing, the master…
Read More