Processing 10 4x5 negs in a Jobo 3005 tank (C-41)

rootberry · Mar 31, 2009

So, I have read in several places on the interwebs that people have used various jobo drums to process larger quantities of film using the 'masking tape method'. People tape two negatives together on the back with the tape and process it, then give extra time washing it to make sure the area under the tape is fully cleaned. I have tried this method with success, but ONLY with black and white film. My question is this; have any of you tried this method with C-41 4x5 film in a Jobo 3005 tank?

I'm very new to processing C-41, and having done only one batch in my 3005 (with great success), I'd like to be able to do ten negs at a time if at all possible.

Any advice/horror stories to share?

Cheers

L Gebhardt · Mar 31, 2009

I've never tried it, but it sounds like a bad idea in a Jobo expert drum. I don't think both sides will get the same exposure to the developer. Why not just get the 3010 drum?

rootberry · Mar 31, 2009

Mostly because the expert drums cost 3 arms, and I don't have any friends.

I wouldn't be processing my own color if I had money to throw around =(

L Gebhardt · Apr 1, 2009

I understand about the money. I bought my Jobo drums a few years ago. The last 3010 drum I bought was $80, and it was new. I just checked and I can't believe how high the prices are.

Still I wouldn't risk it myself without trying it many times on film I could afford to mess up. Try shooting two identical sheets and put them back to back. Then make prints. If they come out identical you at least know it can work well.

Rolleiflexible · Apr 1, 2009

I've done this many times for 5x7
B+W negatives without problems.
I have no experience with color
development -- I'm no help there.

jimgalli · Apr 1, 2009

1) 10 will go in a 3010 with no monkeying. Maybe you meant 20 in a 3005?

2) You're poor but you can afford $2.25 a sheet for film and would risk $45 on cheaper faster developing?

rootberry · Apr 1, 2009

Jim, I have been processing batches of 5 c41 negs in my 8x10 drum with powdered chems that I got for good prices. I bought boxes of expired fuji pro s for 40$ per 50 sheet box. Also, I am a working photographer without a lot of money for my personal projects. Being that I'm 26, I would rather keep my business afloat without debt, but also without sacrificing my large format projects. Doing color in my jobo could save me over 60% if I can keep things efficient.

Cheers

Photo Engineer · Apr 1, 2009

I use the series 2000 drums with the 4x5 reels which can carry 4 sheets of film. I have done 6 at a time in the reels as they have 6 slots, but Jobo says you may get non-uniformity. With 2 reels / tank, I can do 8 sheets. With 3 reels with coupled tanks, I can do 12 sheets.

PE

jimgalli · Apr 1, 2009

Good for you. That's what I do with black and white to keep it affordable too. Of course black and white is a lot more forgiving than color. Years ago I worked and worked on an E6 formula from powders. I finally drove myself crazy and eventually gave up. Good luck in your endeavors.

rootberry said:
Jim, I have been processing batches of 5 c41 negs in my 8x10 drum with powdered chems that I got for good prices. I bought boxes of expired fuji pro s for 40$ per 50 sheet box. Also, I am a working photographer without a lot of money for my personal projects. Being that I'm 26, I would rather keep my business afloat without debt, but also without sacrificing my large format projects. Doing color in my jobo could save me over 60% if I can keep things efficient.

Cheers

Venchka · Apr 1, 2009

Jobo 2551/2553 tank and 2 2509 reels. 8-12 sheets depending on your mood and luck. They come along often.

Processing 10 4x5 negs in a Jobo 3005 tank (C-41)

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