What is The Zone System?
This method is based around a very basic principle but in actuality is quite complex to execute thoroughly. The system is based on the concept that visual change occurs in negative exposures of one stop – symbolized by f/ – which is a factor of two times (2X). Such a change is called a zone and most photographic prints contain nine zones. Zone I is the first step above maximum black, zone V is middle gray and zone IX is glaring white without texture. This is the base of the method called the Zone System and takes the guess work out of photography. A reliable photography course online will provide you detailed information associated with zones in photography.
With pre-visualisation and value rendering, a system is developed using this principle to allow the photographer to:
1. Translate subject values into print values.
2. Pre-determine problems to present the best photographic interpretation of the subject.
3. In viewing and processing, complete image plans before an exposure is made.
The zone system development is attributed to Ansel Adams and was further developed by Minor White. It is used extensively by fine print craftsman mainly in black and white film photography.
The following terminology is associated with the use of the zone system:
1. Pre-visualization
Pre-visualisation is the process of viewing your subject with the physical eye and seeing in the mind’s eye how a medium (your chosen emulsion) can render the subject.
This may be aligned to the photographer’s creativity.
2. Zone
A ‘Zone’ is a visual unit of measurement for luminance. It is arrived at by altering the standard exposure of a light meter by one stop more or one stop less.
3. Luminance Meters
Luminance meters are useful for pre-visualisation; they measure light reflected from surfaces and carry various scales by which exposures are indicated. Many luminance meters come with zone system calculators. Consult a reputable photography course online to find out the specifics of luminance meters and their functions.
4. Value Scale
The term ‘value’ refers to the degree of lightness and darkness of a color. In a photographic print the display of grays or values is known as the scale.To aid pre-visualisation the value scale is subjectively separated into nine steps (or zones) from zone I through to zone IX.
5. Value Rendering
The term rendering is the preferred choice in the zone system, rather than the term recording, as photographs are generally gross approximations of the actual values found in the originals.
Rendering proposes that there may be a range of possibilities of interpretations. Value rendering is planned and pre-visualised in tones.
The zone system takes the guess work out of photography. You assess the environment and your materials and put a plan in effect before making an exposure. This plan will cover your entire processing system through to your final print. For photographers desiring the finest result from their wet process, zone system knowledge and skill is a must to acquire. Consult a reputable photography course online to find further detailed information in this system of photography.
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