seba
Hi everyone,
I’ve recently started processing film. Along with the lab kit, I received a pack of MG4 and a 50-sheet pack of TTVC (which is apparently also MG4), and I’m nearly out of both (I’m still using quite a lot of material at the moment). I’m also very happy with the results (based on my current level of knowledge) and will probably stick with PE/RC for a while until I’ve got the hang of it. That’s why I don’t want to change too much about my setup just yet, though I’d love to do more; but given Ilford’s prices, that’s a bit too much to ask of my wallet at the moment. So for the time being it’ll probably be ADOX or FOMA; I’ve got a few questions about that:
- Is the backing on the papers mentioned medium-weight (190g) or just paper-weight? I couldn’t find anything about that in the catalogue.
- What about the lighting? I have a Dukalux SL, which is about 1m from the tray and about 2.5m from the enlarger, and it shines up at the ceiling. The lamp is red, but quite bright. The process up to fixing takes me about 4 minutes. Is there a potential risk there?
- The only thing in Ilford’s favour at the moment is its availability even in small quantities, as I can’t really invest that much at once to stock up on paper right now. What’s the general situation with the papers mentioned?
- Any recommendations? The Fomaspeed seems (according to the catalogue) to be slightly warmer and faster than the ADOX. I don’t really want to have too many different things lying around here either. I’d rather settle on one and stick with it for now until I reach its limits.
I haven’t planned any experiments for the time being, though I might try a warm-tone paper at some point, but that can wait.
Many thanks in advance for your replies and patience,
cu seba
MirkoBoeddecker
Seba,
The Dukalux is definitely not suitable for ADOX, and you’ll need to test the Foma.
Old Tetenal is Agfa paper.
Foma is available in smaller packs.
PE papers are always on a heavyweight backing that is double-sided with a PE coating. The differences in weight are barely noticeable (except for Ilford Portfolio – a special paper).
Foma tends to be more ‘beginner-friendly’ than ADOX Vario, but you should actually be able to manage with both :)
Best regards,
Mirko
seba
Mirko,
Thanks for your prompt reply
> The Dukalux definitely won’t work with ADOX, and you’ll need to test the Foma.
OK, so if in doubt, should I just order a Philips bulb as well?
> Foma is sold in smaller packs
Well, it should cost around €40 :)
> Foma tends to be more ‘beginner-friendly’ than ADOX Vario, but you should actually be able to manage with both
Right, then I’ll give the Foma a go; maybe it’ll still work with the Dukalux. Besides, I prefer a satin finish.
See you, Seba
