35mm HP5 Users: Favorite Developer?

[BradS]

yes...yes...of course. I am sorry. I didn't mean to offend. I understand the difference between "your favorite and why" and "the best".

I guess I was just kinda talking aloud...not directing my comments toward anybody in particular.

Please forgive me for being flippant.

 

[Venchka]

Sorry, I forgot the "why do I like HP5+ and Xtol 1:3" part.

The film is very forgiving of my bone head mistakes. I like the way my photos look with this film and developer combination. The 1:3 dilution provides a comfortable working time. I'm not rushed and if I miss the time exactly, it's not a big deal. I have also gotten acceptable results with a deliberate 2 stop underexposure and corresponding overdevelopment. All things considered, I like what HP5+ and Xtol 1:3 do. That isn't very scientific.

 

[Matt5791]

I have been using Paterson Aculux for HP5 exclusively for some time now. I use HP5 for 35mm work at weddings now as it is forgiving and I was printing some wedding shots yesterday and I was thinking how I like this combination.

Also, I like to use Aculux because Paterson went to the trouble of finding an alternative manufacturer and re-introducing it. It's a great developer, especially for 35mm.

Matt

 

[garysamson]

I would like to second PHOTOJIM's recommendation of PMK Pyro for Ilford HP5+. The tonality and sharpness are exceptional and the negatives are easier to print in the darkroom especially if you use split filtration. And as Jim stated, you don't have to worry about the developer going bad if stored for an extended period of time.