Definition & Meaning of "bleach bypass"

What is "bleach bypass"?

Bleach bypass is a film processing technique where the bleach step, which removes silver from the film, is partially or completely skipped. This results in higher contrast and a more desaturated color palette, giving the film a distinct, gritty, or stylized look. The technique can enhance texture and mood, making it useful for creating dramatic or vintage effects. Bleach bypass is often used in filmmaking to evoke a particular atmosphere or to intensify the visual impact of a scene.