E-3 process

See also Ektachrome for full details of Kodak E-series processes.

The E-2 process and E-3 process are outdated processes for developing Ektachrome reversal photographic film. The two processes are very similar, and differ depending on the film. Kodak sold kits that could process either kind of film.

Films were processed at 75°F (23.9°C) with a tolerance of only 0.5°F. The steps were:

  • First developer. This was a conventional black-and-white developer, and developed a negative.
  • Stop bath
  • Hardener

After this, the film was removed from the tank and thoroughly exposed with a bright light (Photoflood). Replace in tank, though the lid was no longer required.

  • Colour developer. This developed the rest of the film, and at the same time activated the dye couplers.
  • Stop bath
  • Bleach, to remove all the black-and-white image
  • Clear, to remove pink stains left by the colour developer
  • Stop bath

Films designed for E-2 and E-3 are prone to fading because of the instability of the color dyes. The processes were phased out in 1974 in favor of E-4, and two years later E-6 was introduced which remains in use to this day.

Processing of older Ektachrome films including Process E-3:


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