Water bath pre-soak

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tornredcarpet
Posts: 21
Joined: Thu Sep 15, 2005 1:46 pm

Water bath pre-soak

Post by tornredcarpet »

I discovered that when using a water bath pre-soak in filtered water, I lose a bit of contrast, but get much more consistent development.

For T-grain film, I simply increased development time by 10% and that rectified the problem for me.

bxlxav
Posts: 4
Joined: Sun Sep 25, 2005 6:54 pm
Location: Belgium

Post by bxlxav »

Indeed, pre-soak can induce a loss of contrast (experienced it with Xtoll).
I usually don't pre-soak but try to solve to homogeneity problem by pre-filling the tank before going in the darkroom.
This way, the developper is not poured 'violently' on the film but is gently and directly in contact with the whole film surface.

tornredcarpet
Posts: 21
Joined: Thu Sep 15, 2005 1:46 pm

Post by tornredcarpet »

Oh, what type of development are you talking about?
In small tank, I don't think it matters (i usually add it in anyways).
On the other hand, water baths can be a really easy way to reduce contrast... no pulling required, which means less blocked highlights!

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