120 negative darker at the edge

Gucker · 2011-02-25T19:52:52+00:00

Ich bin als Leser zwar nicht neu in diesem Forum, als Schreiber jedoch schon. Meine "analogen Wurzeln" sind mir bei meiner Diplomarbeit gewachsen, als ich m...

Gucker

I’m not new to this forum as a reader, but I am as a contributor. My ‘analogue roots’ go back to my degree thesis, when I worked with an electron microscope and developed and enlarged the images myself. That was some time ago, and I’ve since managed to set up my own darkroom. For 35mm photography, I use a Minolta SRT 303b with various lenses and a Rollei 35 S; my medium-format cameras are a Super-Ikonta 521/2 and an Eumigetta. Developing 35mm films is no problem at all; with medium format, I had previously only taken black-and-white shots with the Ikonta and, with bright subjects, ended up with even brighter areas at the top and bottom of the frame. I put this down to a shortcoming of the camera until I recently observed the same effect in the Eumigetta, which had previously produced flawless colour images (I’d had them developed at the photo lab). I’m a bit at a loss, as I develop 35mm and medium-format films in the same development tank using the same method, and I really can’t make sense of this problem. Does anyone have any advice?

cfb_de

Which developing tank, how much chemical solution is in it, and what type of agitation is used? Best regards, Franz

Gucker

Which developing tank, how much chemical solution is in it, and what type of agitation is used?

It’s a Bakelite developing tank with the word ‘Plastik’ on it; it holds 480 ml of chemical – just over the rim of the take-up spool; agitation: turning it for 15 seconds every minute. I also have a Photax developing tank; I could tip that one – that might do the trick.

cfb_de

Then give the tilting tank a try. With these mixing cups, there isn’t enough fluid circulation in the channels, which is why the film doesn’t develop properly. This isn’t a problem with 35mm film, as it only affects the perforations, but with roll film it can affect the image itself. Best regards, Franz

Patrick

Hello, I agree with Franz; tilting the can is absolutely essential to ensure even development. I’d advise you to buy a second-hand Patterson can with a pair of reels – they last forever and work perfectly (at least in my experience...) – and the lid stays sealed when you tilt the can. Kind regards, Patrick.

Gucker

Of course, I couldn’t get it out of my head, so today I developed a roll of film. The issue with the edges has been sorted! And the shots taken with the Ikonta are absolutely top-notch. Many thanks for your help!