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a photographic technique developed by Ansel Adams and Fred Archer that involves a methodical approach to exposure and development to achieve the desired tonal range and contrast in the final image
What is the "Zone System"?
The Zone System is a photographic technique developed by Ansel Adams and Fred Archer for managing exposure and contrast in black-and-white photography. It divides the range of tones in a scene into eleven zones, from pure black to pure white, with ten shades of gray in between. By measuring the light and assigning specific areas to these zones, photographers can control how different parts of the image are exposed and processed. This system helps achieve a balanced and detailed image, ensuring that both highlights and shadows are well-represented.
zone system