obtain the desired effect if more than one area is to be flashed the main exposure can be split to time each flashing step this also makes it possible to flash one area with one contrast and another area with a different contrast this is an important capability with variable contrast papers especially when split contrast printing procedures are being used in general flashing of delicate highlights can be conducted using low contrast filters for example ilford 00 1 dark shadow areas can benefit from higher contrast filters for example ilford 3 5 contrast is selected by rotating section 16 see fig1 until the desired filter lines up with reference marks flashing with apparatus 10 is like painting with light a circle of blank light is projected then the scope of the light is adjusted to fit well within the area to be flashed during the main exposure the circle of light is moved back and forth across the area to be flashed in a 34 feathering 34 action there is a basic difference in information gained from 34 test strips 34 using the subject invention compared with that obtained from prior art methods with the device of this invention flashing is selective and simultaneous with main exposures 34 test strips 34 show the actual effect that flashing will have on the final image also a large number of flashing variables such as contrast light intensity and 34 painting technique 34 can be rapidly tested and resulting test strips processed simultaneously in comparison when an enlarger is used as a source of light for.