CHAPTER 8COLOR IN STEREOODERN STEREO IS COLOR STEREO. Not only is color predomi-
M nant but it adds specifically to the realism which is the
great characteristic of stereo. No black-and-white stereo can ap-
proach the realism of the color stereogram, and this is true of a
white statue as of any other subject. There is no monochrome in
nature and those objects and scenes which we call monochromatic
are in reality colored. We have, in another portion of this volume,
discussed the importance of color perspective in regard to stereo,
and have mentioned the fact that color accuracy is of far greater
importance in stereo than in planar work. In the planar, color
does no more than add to the attractiveness of the subject, in
stereo it is a definite factor in the establishment of spatial relation-
ship, the very core of stereo.
COLOR ERRoR.-We may as well face the fact, we all know it.
Average results with color film are not satisfactory to those who
have a discriminating color appreciation. More than that, many
such color shots are not satisfactory to anyone at all. This condi-
tion is an intolerable one as far as stereo is concerned, but what
can be done about it? Where does the fault lie? Can it be over-
come?
Quite naturally, you think the fault lies in the film; and in so
thinking you are making a grave error. The film is not perfect,
of course, but it is quite good enough to satisfy a competent col-
orist when given a chance to do its work. No, dear reader, the
trouble lies with you, or possibly with the dealer who did not
store the film properly, but in all likelihood the fault is yours
and yours alone.
It is all very well to sit back and let modern technology carry
your burdens, but there is a limit. You must do a few things for
yourself. Consider the days before color film. What was done
then? The color photographer laboriously made three exposures,
and without really satisfactory red-sensitive plates. He developed
them giving each one just the development it needed. He prob-
ably resorted to intensification and reduction. He petted and
babied those negatives through processing. When they were done
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