A method for deriving a color negative film developer composition and processing conditions for developing a photographic film image which is optimized for subsequent digital scanning and digital image file manipulation, which allows for optimum rapid development processing of the film is disclosed. The process includes identifying at least one independent variable that has a first order effect on the density of at least one of the red, green, and blue dye images of the developed image, selecting a desired range of values for the independent variables identified, formulating an experimental design that includes desired independent variables over the desired range of values, performing the experiment to obtain statistically significant values for desired dependent variables, applying the values to a mathematical model capable of providing a formula for optimizing responses to the dependent variables, and using the formula to identify desired optimal developer composition and processing conditions resulting in an developed image in which the subsequent required digital scanning and digital image file manipulation is reduced. Also disclosed is a method for providing a color display image including developing an imagewise exposed color silver halide negative working film having at least two color records, with a color developer solution composition and under development process conditions derived in accordance with the above process, scanning the developed film to form density representative signals for the at least two color records, and digitally manipulating the density representative signals thus formed to correct either or both interimage interaction and gamma mismatches among said at least two color records to produce a digital record providing a display image having desired aim color and tone scale reproduction, such that the digital manipulation is minimized.