set up for "blackist blacks" test

[stradibarrius]

I am going to do the paper/developer combo test to establish a baseline of what are the blackest blacks and whitest whites the combo can achieve.
I felt like the advice to do this test first was very good advice.
My paper is Ilford MGIV in Dektol.

Should I do this test with my enlarger lens wide open? also should I just expose the paper with no negative base in the holder?
Does the lens make a difference? I have a Nikon 50mm and a Fujinon 90mm?
I think not but I thought I would ask...

 

[nworth]

Fog a test strip in room light. Process it normally in fresh developer and fixer. Check the density. That checks the blackest black. Turn off all the lights (maybe even the safelight). Take out another test strip. Do not expose it to light. Process it normally in fresh developer and fixer. Check the density. That gives you the whitest white.

 

[Denis R]

cross over to the dark side...

sacrifice one sheet of paper and use a paper storage bag

have 1/2 sticking out of the bag
seal the seam with electrical tape, darkroom worker's secret weapon

one minute on bright should do

 

[markbarendt]

Here's a link to a good article http://www.barrythornton.com/ "Enter Site" > In the menu hit "Technique Guide" > In the sub-menu hit "The Nozone System"

Barry Thornton, IFRC has passed so I wouldn't want to bet on the site being there forever. It is copyrighted material but available in full public view right now so I'd suggest copying the info for your own reference before the site goes away.