How to Develop Black & White Film at Home pt. 2
Loading Film
Learning to load your film is a valuable skill for any film photographer, as it gives you greater control over the entire development process. Mastering this technique allows you to handle your film carefully, minimizing the risk of scratches, light leaks, or dust exposure that can ruin an image. Loading film yourself also offers flexibility; you can experiment with different development methods, like pushing or pulling film, which can enhance your creative control over contrast and exposure
Secure the Reel in the Tank
Once loaded, place the reel into the developing tank and securely close the lid. The tank is now light-proof and safe to open in normal lighting. With your loaded tank, move to your sink area and lay out all premeasured chemicals. Prepare enough developer solutions according to the dilution ratio recommended on the developer bottle.
Film in the developing tank.
Check the volume requirements for your specific tank, as this will determine the amount of solution needed.
Ensure the chemistry is at the correct temperature, ideally 68-70°F (20-21°C), using a thermometer for accuracy.
Note: Water that’s too hot or too cold affects contrast and alters developing times.
Mix the fixer separately, following its dilution instructions, and avoid cross-contaminating with the developer.
Developing
Pour Out Pre-Soak Water:
Empty the tank after soaking; murky or colored water is normal.
Check Developer Temperature:
Use a thermometer to ensure the developer is at 20°C (68°F).
If Too Cold: Place the beaker in a warm water bath to raise the temperature.
If Too Warm: Use a cool water bath to lower the temperature.
Adjust Developing Time for Temperature Variance:
For every 1°C (1.8°F) above or below 20°C, adjust developing time by 10%.
Example: At 19°C (66.2°F), add 10% to the total developing time.
Check Development Times:
Refer to the technical info from your film/developer, company datasheets, or the Massive Development Chart.
Confirm the development time recommended for your film and developer (e.g., Fomapan 400 with Perceptol: 9-10 minutes).
Review Agitation Routine:
Follow the developer’s specific instructions for agitation.
Example: Perceptol suggests 10 seconds of agitation every minute.
Be consistent with agitation times to ensure even development.
Prepare Developer Solution:
Measure out the necessary developer amount (e.g., 375ml).
Pour Developer into the Tank:
Carefully pour the developer into the tank.
Start the Timer:
Begin timing as soon as the developer is added to the tank.
Agitation. Gif provide by https://www.learnfilm.photography/how-to-load-plastic-paterson-reels-without-
