Expired FP4Plus

[jmahto]

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I found an old roll of FP4Plus hidden in my desk cabinet. I got it when I had started thinking of shooting film but didn't actually start. Must have been around 10 years and I had almost forgotten.

 

I wanted to test it out. I loaded my M2 and shot 10 test shots in and around the house, including my M3 (so aptly named... M2, M3.. got it ). Cut it at around 10 frame inside changing bag (my first) and loaded my Paterson tank. Poured a drink before mixing chemicals (it helps in development, trust me). I used DD-X (1+4) and dev time by massive dev chart.

Boy, I was surprised that I got usable photos! Little grainy for 125 but good shadow details. Highlight was blowing at +2 over exposure. Not sure whether it is characteristic of this film or not. I haven't tried a fresh FP4Plus yet. For now it seems that metered exposure is working well for this expired film.

Now I have to load the remaining roll in my M2 inside changing bag so that I can salvage two extra frames. That will be my first too.

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[pico]

Very interesting! I wonder if expired film can transform my tired Toyota into a BMW.

[M9reno]

I find that my expired FP4 just shows a dark base on the negative. The same may be the case with yours and would explain the blown highlights and relative drop in DR. It still works better for me than the new Ferrania, sad to say.

[jmahto]

Very interesting! I wonder if expired film can transform my tired Toyota into a BMW.

Worth a try. LOL.

 

Seriously... BW film makes any car look better than it is. IMHO 

[jmahto]

I find that my expired FP4 just shows a dark base on the negative. The same may be the case with yours and would explain the blown highlights and relative drop in DR. It still works better for me than the new Ferrania, sad to say.

You may be right about the reduced DR cause. On the other hand I found gradual shadows rather than a sudden pitch dark. I was reading that this is one of FP4Plus characteristic. I may try a fresh roll on some contrasty scenes one day.