2. Film (2)

    Monochrome Film Developing (Part 2).

The chemicals needed too process the film include a developer, stop bath, and fixer.

Developer The choice is down to the individual many photographers have their favourite, for this article I have chosen Ilford's ID11 (Kodak'S D76 is also the same formula). This is a fine grain developer and works well with slow or medium speed films particularly when large sized prints are required.

Stop bath Although this is not essential it is advisable to use it as it helps to prolong the working life of the fixer.

Fixer The fixer bath is essential as this dissolves any of the unexposed parts of the film making it safe to handle in the light.

STEP ONE

Measure out enough developer to cover the film and pour into the tank, tap sharply on a hard surface this releases any trapped air bubbles) and start the stopwatch. agitate for ten seconds by simply turning the tank upside down a few times and then at two inversions every 30 seconds for the development time which is 7½ minutes.

STEP TWO

Ten seconds before end of development time pour out developer, then pour in the stop bath and agitate for ten seconds. This will stop the development process. The film should remain in the stop bath for at least 30 seconds

STEP THREE

After pouring out the stop bath pour in the fixer and agitate for 10 seconds and then 10 seconds every minute. The usual recommended fixing times are approximately 2 to 2½ minutes with fresh fixer, but I usually double this time to ensure that the film has been fully fixed.

STEP FOUR

After fixing the next step is to wash the film in cold water..The temperature is not critical, although if you can maintain 10°C to 20°C so much the better. There are numerous devices that will fit onto your taps and plug into the development tank allowing the film to be washed whilst still on it's spiral. The recommended time to wash the film is approximately 20 minutes.

STEP FIVE

Add a few drops of wetting agent to the final rinse, this will help to prevent drying marks forming on the film. Take out the spiral and squeegee between two fingers or use squeegee tongs and hang up to dry in a dust free room. Care must be observed in handling the film whilst wet as the emulsion side of the film can easily damaged.

CONGRATULATIONS YOU HAVE NOW DEVELOPED YOUR FIRST FILM

Article By P. Dunn
Photographs By P. Dunn and M. Lovell.© 2000.