Cross processing (“xpro”) means developing slide film in chemicals meant for negative film. The result is famously unpredictable: colors shift toward green and yellow, shadows turn cyan, contrast spikes and skin takes on a strange editorial glow. Fashion photographers embraced the accident in the 90s, and the look never really left.
The Shift amount slider controls how far the color curves bend — subtle at 30, unmistakably xpro at 70+. Contrast adds the snappy, slightly harsh tonality of mis-developed slide film. It is a bold look, great for fashion-style portraits, urban scenes and anything that should feel a little off-kilter. Free and fully client-side.
How to add the cross process effect to a photo
Tips for the best cross process look
- Cross process transforms skin tones — check faces as you adjust; a little shift goes a long way on portraits.
- It pairs beautifully with grain and a mild vignette for a full analog treatment.
- Blue skies turning teal-green is the classic tell of the effect — landscapes wear it well.
Cross Process effect — FAQ
What does cross-processing actually do to colors?
It bends each color channel differently: greens and yellows get boosted in highlights, shadows drift toward cyan and blue, and contrast increases unevenly. This tool models those channel curves digitally, with one slider for how far to push them.
Is cross process the same as a “teal and orange” look?
No — teal-and-orange is a modern cinematic grade that keeps colors “correct” but complementary. Cross process is intentionally incorrect: it distorts hues globally for a raw, analog, experimental feel.
What subjects suit the xpro look?
Editorial portraits, street fashion, skateboarding and music photography — anywhere attitude beats accuracy. It is also great for making ordinary suburban scenes feel like 90s film photography.