AboutSteve Pearson Expertise Try me for 35mm or darkroom issues. I am a professional photographer in Australia. I work solely in 35mm digital format, after 35 years of colour and monochrome film in many formats. I have darkroom experience and for many years belonged to my local camera club. I conduct photography workshops around the state on any and most subjects relating to photography and often judge photography exhibitions and competitions.
Experience I hold a Diploma of Applied Science in Forensic Investigation, with part of my studies involving photography. I spend most days with a camera and am into digital photography in a big way. I was given my first camera in 1965 and have not been without one since. I spent nearly 20 years as a forensic investigator with my state Police Force, and since retiring a couple of years ago have concentrated on commercial photography - especially weddings.
Expert: Steve Pearson Date: 7/27/2005 Subject: Film developers for Ilford HP5
Question What sort of differences should I expect to get in effective film speed, contrast, grain and sharpness if I developed Ilford HP5 film in one of the following: Ilford Perceptol, Fotospeed FD10 and Ilford ID10?
What applications would these different developers be most suitable for?
I am very much a beginner in the darkroom which is probably obvious from the questions?
Hope you can help,
Many thanks,
John
Answer John. To be honest, since I went digital a couple of years ago I haven't mixed 1mL of chemicals. However, to answer your question as best I can - HP5 is an ISO400 film that is relatively grainy. The developers should all give you the same results, and obviously the Ilford products are more compatible. I've not heard of ID10, only ID11 which was the 'standard' developer for FP4 and HP5. As long as you do everything at 20degC you are on a good start. The longer you take to develop the film, the better the accutance of the grain. Some people mix the developer at 3:1 and others at 9:1 (recommended). 9:1 obviously takes more time and so gives a better result as the developing is more even. You will find that Ilford chemicals are best for Ilford film.
Good luck with it all.
Steve
PS
For best results, expose your HP5 (ISO400) film as ISO200 film. This way it will be overposed by 1 stop and you will get better contrast and details in the shadows. If you don't believe me, bracket your shots 1 stop either side as well as the 'standard' metered reading. Then see the differences when it comes to making prints.
