E-3 process

The E-2 process and E-3 process are outdated processes for developing Ektachrome reversal photographic film.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.

See also Ektachrome for full details of Kodak E-series processes.
For the visa, see E-3 visa.

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

  • First developer. This is a conventional black-and-white developer, and develops as a negative.
  • Stop bath
  • Hardener

After this, the film is 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 develops the now exposed silver bromide, and at the same time activated the dye couplers
  • Stop bath
  • Bleach, to remove all the developed silver
  • 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 (which was introduced in 1966), 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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