CURVES
Instructions for Using Bexhill Darkroom curve Files in Photoshop
The following steps apply to all processes: Van Dyke Brown, Cyanotype, Salt Printing, and Kallitype.
| Cyanotype - Curves Download | Vandyke Brown - Curves Download | Salt Print - Curves Download | Kallitype - Curves Download |
1. Desaturate the Image
Go to:
Image → Adjustments → Desaturate
2. Adjust Levels
Go to:
Image → Adjustments → Levels
Adjust the sliders as follows:
• Move the left (black) slider to the start of the histogram peak
• Move the right (white) slider to the end of the histogram peak
This ensures full tonal range before applying the curves.
3. Apply Curves File
Go to:
Image → Adjustments → Curves
Click on the COG / GEAR icon to the right of the preset drop down.
Select → Load Preset
Navigate to your downloaded Curve files → Apply
Note: The image may appear flat or washed out. This is normal — each Curve is calibrated to match the tonal response of the specific process.
4. Invert the Image
Go to:
Image → Adjustments → Invert
This converts the image into a negative for printing.
5. Flip the Image
Go to:
Image → Image Rotation → Flip Canvas Horizontal
(This ensures correct orientation when contact printing.)
6. Resize for Print
Go to:
Image → Image Size
Set your desired final print dimensions.
7. Printer Media Settings
In your printer settings:
• Select Media Type: Photo Quality Gloss
• Set Quality: Highest available
8. Loading Transparency Film
When loading your contact printing film:
Lightly dampen your finger and touch one corner of the sheet.
The slightly tacky (sticky) side is the printable side.