efke 25, D-76 & dilution Q's

[jwchayse]

So im somewhat confused as to the effects, advantages / disadvantages etc. of developer dilution. In my case for example itll be efke 25 & D-76.
What would be the effects of stock vs. 1+1, 1+3 etc.
I also hear conflicting opinions about a pre soak with this film, does it make a difference? If so, cold soak, warm, how long?
any suggestions will help
thanks guys

 

[PhotoJim]

Short answer about dilutions:

Undiluted: nice tonality, minimum grain, lowest sharpness of these three
1:1: nicer tonality (in my opinion), less grain, greater sharpness
1:3: nice tonality (in my opinion), worst grain of these three, maximum sharpness of these three

As for a presoak, I haven't found it to be necessary but some do. Bear in mind that you'll need a slightly shorter development time if you presoak, because the film starts developing quicker. One minute at developer temperature should be good; I wouldn't use warmer or colder water because you could reticulate the emulsion. (It's not likely but it's possible.)

 

[jim appleyard]

I agree with Jim, but Efke 25 is virtually grainless, so D-76 at 1+3 works well. Yes, 1+3 increases grain with all films, but with Efke 25, there isn't much grain to increase.

Pre-soak should be at the same temp as the dev.

 

[jwchayse]

thanks guys

 

[titrisol]

I thought so, D76 1+3 should work fine, but what time?
Normally Efke25 is too sensitive to development and can easily be overdeveloped.

Any idea in 1+5 or so dilution?

 

[jim appleyard]

The MDC says 9-10 min. I can't remember which I used, but 9.5 should be quite good.

 

[Rolleijoe]

Rodinal 1:50 10min @ 20? is the accepted norm for Efke films. Nothing else like it. D-76 is passé.

 

[Lee L]

D-76 is passé.

Nobody goes there anymore, it's too crowded.
-Yogi Berra

Lee