Preparation of the developing chemistry

Now you have to prepare enough chemistry in the recommended dilution (working solution) depending on the developer you are using. The tank you use will dictate the amount of chemistry needed.

photo of jobo tank chemistry amount or Ilford bottle

One important thing to keep in mind during this stage is the temperature – it is recommended to work with working solutions in the temperature range of 18°-21°C. The thermometer helps to make sure that the water you mix the developer with is at the right temperature. If the water temperature is warmer or colder, the contrast of the film can be greatly affected and the development times will change.
The fixing bath is also prepared according to the specified dilution. It is essential to ensure that no fixer comes into contact with the developing solution

• never mix the fixer first and then the developer
• never use the same vessel to mix the developer and the fixer.

Also, before starting the process, you must note the development time for the film to be developed. The development time is indicated on the box the film came in, or possibly on the bottle or package of the developer you are using.

The XXX APP and XXX MassivDevChart also give indications of the specific development time for the combination of film, developer and dilution of the working solution.