Pulling film exposure/development

[alanrockwood]

This may have been answered already, maybe even multiple times, but I'm looking for a short and sweet confirmation of what I think is the case.

It is well-known that pushing film typically results in a grainier result. Is the converse true, namely that pulling film will normally result in a less grainy result?

As I mentioned, I am looking for a short and sweet answer, but don't let that dissuade anyone from giving a more complete answer.

 

[Don_ih]

The answer will be yes, since the amount of time for silver to "clump" together is decreased. But you will also lose density and contrast.

 

[Ian Grant]

Easy answer is yes and no, there is an optimal point where you will get the finest grain as well as an excellent tonal scale without losing contrast and looking flat. That may be at the manufacturers ISO speed which is the No scenario, only the old Agfa APX25 & APX100 gave me excellent results at box speed and Agfa;s recommended times in Rodinal. In tact using Tmax100 at 50EI and APX100 at 100EI I used the same development time and almost identical results in terms of excellent fine grain, similar tonality, negatives printed on the same grade.

More typically is the Yes scenario in my case Tmax100 at half box speed so pulling and a development time found by testing. Under-exposure is also a factor in increased grain. This is why some of us use teh Zone System, BTZS, or some other method to find that optimal balance.

Ian