"Kodak Infrared Slide Film Broadens Imaging Spectrum For Creative and Scientific Photography

New Orleans, LA, February 20-Kodak Professional today revealed the first infrared-sensitive, color reversal film compatible with E-6 processing chemistry. Previous versions of infrared-sensitive color slide film had to be developed using process E-4 or process EA-5, but both processes were only available from a limited number of specialty labs.

Now, thanks to a new forehardened film emulsion, scientists and technologists who require a visual record of the infrared spectrum have the option of processing their film locally or remaining with specialty labs. Kodak predicts that the wider availability of E-6 processing should also increase use among amateur and commercial photographers desiring a film for special effects.

The new Kodak Ektachrome professional infrared EIR film features fine grain, medium sharpness and a 4-mil thick Estar base. It has normal sensitivity to both ultraviolet and visible colors found between 380 and 700 nanometers, and sensitivity to infrared radiation found between 700 and 900 nanometers. Kodak Ektachrome professional infrared EIR film can be developed in either Process AR-5 or Process E-6 depending upon the desired results. Photographs developed in Process AR-5 will produce a more accurate record of infrared detail while photographs developed using Process E-6 will produce images with higher color saturation and contrast. Processing also affects film speed, with film developed using Process E-6 exhibiting twice the speed of film developed using Process AR-5. However, a fixed film speed and DX Coding cannot be applied to this film because camera exposure meters are not calibrated for infrared radiation.

When using Kodak Ektachrome professional infrared EIR film in daylight with a Kodak Wratten No.12 filter, a good starting point for film developed using AR-5 is an exposure index of 100, or an E.I. of 200 for film using E-6. In order to increase film speed, push processing is also possible with Process E-6. As with earlier versions of Kodak infrared-sensitive slide films, Kodak Ektachrome infrared EIR film requires special storage and handling. Since this film is highly sensitive to storage temperature, freezer storage is recommended for optimal sensitivity, although the film can be stored at 55 degrees for up to a month without severe consequences. Loading and unloading should be performed in total darkness and users should make certain that their labs avoid infrared sources which may fog the film, such as sensors in the E-6 processor and night vision goggles.

Kodak Ektachrome infrared EIR film can be exposed at shutter speeds from 1/100 to 1/1000 without exposure compensation or additional filtration. It will be available in 135mm 36 exposure rolls by June 1997. Prices are expected to remain the same as previous versions for Process E-4 and AR-5. The Kodak worldwide catalog number for this film is 144-8406.

For more information on products and solutions from Kodak Professional, customers may call: 1-800-242-2424 or contact Kodak Professional on-line at: http://www.kodak.com/go/professional"