Fuji porcess data

[Allen in Montreal]

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I have been using TX for 25 years but have recently been testing the waters with Acros and Neopan 400. The first few test rolls are way off base with suggested process time.

 

Typically, I keep X-tol, D-76, HC-110 and T-Max on hand and would like to stick with

one of these developers.

 

Any suggestions for film speed and start times?

 

Thank you.

[andybarton]

The best starting point is the Massive Development Chart at Digitaltruth Photo

[fotohuis]

Kodak HC-110 Developer - Unofficial Resource Page

[Michael Hiles]

Do your own tests - there is no substitute.

 

Don't just accept the ASA number on the box - it is likely wrong in your situation. For very little money (2-3 $), buy a cheap gelatin neutral density filter from a serious photoshop. Get one of 0.01 density. Expose a gray card at various ASAs and record your exposures carefully, leaving a blank frame between each exposure. The frame with a density about equal to the blank frame plus the ND filter over it is the one exposed at the right ASA. Works every time. Once you know your ASA, stick with it through thick and thin. Any other exposure will yield less-than-optimal negatives. Period.

 

Then as you test your development time, your ASA remains constant - different development times (within reason) have very little effect on shadow detail, meaning that your ASA is not a significant variable vs. development time.

 

Test for development time - you want your highlights to print correctly on grade 3 (maybe 2) paper. The usual recommended test for development time assumes printing on real paper. If you are scanning only, test for good scans. But first get your correct ASA - that is key and the way to control your negative quality. Then do orderly tests for development time. Anyting and everything else it hit and miss.

[Allen in Montreal]

Thank you for the suggestions Gents.

Michael, I have not gone through the full testing as I am not sure if I will stick with Neopan. So far, all pointers are leading me to think it may be HP5 for printing and Tmax for scanning.

 

I have yet to find a film, or film and developer combo, that I like as much as the pre 2007 Tri-x in HC-110. I had a freezer full of the old film and olny ran out of supply in 2009.

[Michael Hiles]

There are untold thousands (maybe millions) who swore by Tri-X in HC110. Including Ansel Adams and Fred Picker.

 

Whatever you decide on, do the tests. They combine a logical approach with minimal but effective use of your time and resources.