Problems With POP...help!

[Richard K.]

OK, I've tried, I've really tried, but I just can't seem to get EVEN toning with this process. It makes no difference if I smile or frown, chant or hum or work before or after midnight. I'm using Centennial POP and the B&S Gold Toner. Whether I agitate like a madman or whether I just let the print sit in the toner, I cannot get a nice uniform toning effect. The edges go gray or less brown (depending on how long in the toner) compared to the print center. This evens out a bit in the fixer step but not enough to not ruin the prints which are a beautiful tone in the center but gray at the edges. What am I missing here? This is a beautiful process, using my pyro negs that work well for Pt/Pd, but I just can't seem to get past this step. The only thing I've thought of trying is to use 16x20 paper instead of the 11x14 paper that I am using for my 11x14 negs hoping that the uneveness will stop before reaching the image area, but this may be a vain and expensive hope. Is there a technique that will bless me with even toning??? Any insights appreciated!

 

[livemoa]

Richard, check with B & S, they might have some info that would help. I know a couple of locals who use pop, I will ask them if they have had similar problems.

 

[livemoa]

Hi, have asked around, and the answer is no, they havent.

What size tray are you using? Are you getting enough aggitation at the edges?

 

[cjarvis]

Use a larger tray (16x20 for 11x14 prints).
Use at least 2 liters of toner in a big tray.
Use a more dilute solution, and tone longer.
Use gold borax.

You know, if the edges of the paper are curling (and I know from experience they do), that could account for your uneven toning. If your solution is strong, it'll only take a few seconds to cause a noticeable difference.