Necessary accessories, tools and chemicals for b/w film development
Developing tank
A developing tank is a light-tight container that holds the film in contact with the chemistry and prevents the film from being exposed during the development process.
There are two competing system/manufacturers for developing tanks and accessories:
Both the Jobo and Paterson tank systems are defacto industry standards for plastic tanks and come with everything you need. For purists, there are also stainless steel tanks for standard size roll film that offer increased durability and temperature stability.
Spools
When you buy a developing tank, it usually includes at least one spool. A spool is the second component for developing a film. There are also tanks to hold multiple spools at the same time; This way you can develop multiple rolls of film at once.
Most developing tanks and spools are suitable for both 35mm film and 120 format film. There are also spools and films for holding sheet film.
Chemistry
Basically all you need is developer, fixer and water.
There are a large number of different developers and fixers.
The choice of developer can affect the appearance of the negatives. In addition, there are developers whose working solution is used only once (one shot), or which can be used multiple times.
Chemicals are available both
- in powder form, from which a so-called stock solution must first be mixed, or
- directly as a liquid concentrate (stock solution)
An advantage of powdered chemicals is the longer shelf life (in powder form). However, the processing to the stock solution must be carried out in compliance with the relevant safety regulations, the powder vapors are not harmless.
Measuring vessels
Measuring vessels are a must. It is important to measure out the right amount of chemistry for development, and it is equally important to get the right dilutions when mixing the chemistry.
It’s best to have at least two or more measuring cups of different sizes – small measuring cups are more accurate, and larger ones can logically hold more chemistry and are suitable for making the working solution.
Storage of chemicals
Depending on the type and number of chemicals you end up using, working and stock solutions should be stored in labeled storage containers for easy access and extended shelf life. The size of the containers depends on the chemical you are using and how often you can use the chemical.
Capsule lifter or film retriever
A cap lifter helps open a film cartridge for 35mm film. Alternatively, there are film retrievers
Clamps and leashes
Special film clamps or else ordinary clothespins help when the developed film is air-dried.
Thermometer
A thermometer is also essential. Since the thermometer comes in contact with chemistry, it is important to have a separate thermometer for film development.
Timer or app
Special stopwatches, or indeed any clock with a legible second hand, will help keep track of development times to ensure greater consistency.
I personally use the app XXXXX
For both chemistry and accessories, there are ready-made packages at macodirekt, nordfoto and fotoimpex (Germany/Europe)
Changing bag
If you don’t have a darkroom available, then you need a so-called changing bag. A changing bag is a lightproof bag made of black fabric with two openings for the arms. In this bag you cantake the film out of the capsulethread it onto the spiral and then push it into the developing tank.into the developing tank,which is then closed light-tight with the lid.
Workplace
In addition to the development kit itself, there are a few other things you need for development:
- a sink with running water and
- a clean, dust-free place where the film can dry when you’re done.
The easiest place to dry film is in the bathroom, hanging from a metal hanger that itself hangs from the shower curtain rod.
When developing film for the first time, it’s worth sacrificing a roll of unexposed film to practice loading the spools; you practice with this test film until you can comfortably and easily thread it into the spool with your eyes closed.