The Motion-Picture Laboratory

The evolution of the motion-picture processing laboratory is traced from the early days of reel-and-trough processing by Pathé and Gaumont up to the present day of highly efficient and complicated machine handling. During this half-century, many changes have been introduced in order to render the necessary services, to guarantee a uniformly high quality, and to meet economic requirements. In the early operations, processing was controlled largely by visual judgment. When photographic sound recording was introduced, sensitometric and other instrumental controls were adopted and a general refinement of laboratory methods soon followed. The complications of color photography required new techniques and new tools, especially as regards printing machinery. Laboratory work in the service of television is one in which the element of time is emphasized greatly. — During the latter half of the period, a system of motion-picture photography for the amateur involving the making of direct positives by reversal has resulted in the growth of a system of custom processing laboratories. At the same time the ramification of services to professional motion-picture production has been met by the development of new techniques and new functions while a high standard of quality and service has been maintained.

Print ISSN

0898-0438

Published

1955-01

Content type

Original Research

DOI

10.5594/J18394