Processing your film helps you improve your shooting skills and your confidence as a photographer. You might be thinking that this is a complicated process, which is wrong! With the right tools and procedures, anyone can develop a film. But the issue lies in the quality and size. It can be an excellent way to practice your hobby if making a small photograph film that does not have a commercial motive. However, for long ones with a bigger purpose, there is more to it than you can handle alone in a closed room. Here is a simple guide to film developing.
What Do You Need?
A film reek
Film tank
Cassette opener
A pair of scissors
A timer
Containers to help you in measuring the chemistry
Bottles
A thermometer
Developers
What Are the Steps?
Follow the outline below for your film developing needs.
1. Select Your Developer
The developers are either liquid or powder. Little differences are there between them. The powder developer is possible to store for long, and one can mix only a small part of the chemistry for the required developer. The selection of the developer to use depends on your taste.
2. Mix the Chemistry
Before beginning to mix the chemistry, it is necessary to take note of the safety precautions. Ensure you wear rubber gloves before you start because the chemicals are hazardous. Also, make sure the room has the right ventilation. In instances where you feel dizzy or unwell, make sure you leave the room.
3. Load the Film to Start Development
After preparing the solution, load the film into your developing tank. You first place the reel at the center of the tank before you place the lid.
4. Pre-wash the Film
The pre-wash prevents bubbles from forming on the film. It can happen if you add a developer to a dry film. Let cold water into the development tank until it is full. After that, let the film soak for a maximum of five minutes.
5. Develop the Film
After five minutes, pour the water out. It may have a weird color; this is normal, though. Using a thermometer, check the temperature of the developer to confirm it is 20 degrees. If colder, warm the solution.
6. Add the Fixer and Stop Bath
The stop bath is meant to end the development. If you are using the stop bath, add the solution for two minutes after the process. Lukewarm water can also serve instead of the stop bath.
7. Carry out the Final Rinse
Place the development tank below a tap for the final rinse. Wash the film developing tank for some minutes, and then open it and rinse the film. After cleaning, you will have a perfect roll of film if everything has been done correctly.
8. Let Your Film Dry
While drying the film, take the clips and attach them to the ends. The clips ensure it does not curl while it dries. Once it gets thoroughly dried, you have the films ready.
Are You Ready For Your Next Film Development?
The process may seem complicated, especially for a beginner. The simple outline above is here to make the experience different.
