- Joined
- Jan 28, 2004
- Messages
- 230
- Format
- 4x5 Format
I figure everyone has their own shortcut or ways of doing certain things. Share some of your ideas here. I'm sure as simple as it may seem to one, it can help greatly to others. Also share your DO-NOT-DO as well. I'm sure some people are doing things without realizing the damage it could cause.
Here are a few of mines:
Tip #1
When doing film testing for 35mm, I usually shoot 10 frames of Zone I (1/3 stops) of 2 stops under and 1 stop over box's speed. Shoot 1 blank frame. Then do the same 10 frames at Zone VIII.
Why??? Because once developed, I will have both Zone I and VIII without having to do separate steps for highlight testing. Say if my Zone I landed on the third frame. That means on the Zone VIII frame, I measure the third frame of that as well. If the density is too high, redevelop another roll with less time. If it finally lands perfectly, you've saved yourself a step from having to do highlight testing. This is also very effective because you can guage how Zone I changes slightly with development modification.
On 120 film, I usually do 1/2 stop steps at 2 stops under box speed. Since EI is usually half indicated speed.
========
Tip #2
When you're in the dark moving your rollfilm to your developing tank, be sure NOT to rip the sticky tape at the end off of the emulsion. When doing so, it unleashes static and will create a small spark that can potentially fog your film. It has happened to me once, so from now on, I simply cut it with a scissor.
========
Tip #3
Bulk Loading: With bulk loading, you could be loading up to 20 rolls, and after a while, as more film is purchased, you end up with a mix of 100/400 film, etc. Instead of labeling my canisters - which could take a long time to do, I usually cut the leader to identify the speed. So for ISO 100, I usually cut a diagonal peice taking off only one sprocket. For ISO 400, I cut a diagonal taking up 4 sprockets. This saves me a lot of time when putting everything together in a hurry. This also helps if you're not sure what film you have once you're in the changing bag and already opened up the canister.. just feel the cut, if the angle is further, you know its 400. If its narrower, its 100. For unusual numbers like Plus-X, i usually cut a notch like whats done on large format sheets.
Umm... That's all I have for now... Hope that helps. Lets hear yours..
Here are a few of mines:
Tip #1
When doing film testing for 35mm, I usually shoot 10 frames of Zone I (1/3 stops) of 2 stops under and 1 stop over box's speed. Shoot 1 blank frame. Then do the same 10 frames at Zone VIII.
Why??? Because once developed, I will have both Zone I and VIII without having to do separate steps for highlight testing. Say if my Zone I landed on the third frame. That means on the Zone VIII frame, I measure the third frame of that as well. If the density is too high, redevelop another roll with less time. If it finally lands perfectly, you've saved yourself a step from having to do highlight testing. This is also very effective because you can guage how Zone I changes slightly with development modification.
On 120 film, I usually do 1/2 stop steps at 2 stops under box speed. Since EI is usually half indicated speed.
========
Tip #2
When you're in the dark moving your rollfilm to your developing tank, be sure NOT to rip the sticky tape at the end off of the emulsion. When doing so, it unleashes static and will create a small spark that can potentially fog your film. It has happened to me once, so from now on, I simply cut it with a scissor.
========
Tip #3
Bulk Loading: With bulk loading, you could be loading up to 20 rolls, and after a while, as more film is purchased, you end up with a mix of 100/400 film, etc. Instead of labeling my canisters - which could take a long time to do, I usually cut the leader to identify the speed. So for ISO 100, I usually cut a diagonal peice taking off only one sprocket. For ISO 400, I cut a diagonal taking up 4 sprockets. This saves me a lot of time when putting everything together in a hurry. This also helps if you're not sure what film you have once you're in the changing bag and already opened up the canister.. just feel the cut, if the angle is further, you know its 400. If its narrower, its 100. For unusual numbers like Plus-X, i usually cut a notch like whats done on large format sheets.
Umm... That's all I have for now... Hope that helps. Lets hear yours..