matthias28
HC-110 was Ansel Adams’ favourite developer. He used it to develop both standard and high-contrast photos to excellent effect, and in his book *The Negative* he explains how he does this and what the limitations are.
The most important thing to remember about HC-110 is:
If you use the same amount of developer
at different dilutions, whilst maintaining the same agitation
in the developing tank
, you will get the same development result!
If you leave the tank to stand for longer and agitate it less frequently, you’ll achieve a softer development for high-contrast subjects.
In practical terms, this means:
The HP5 achieves its true 400 ISO when I use 20ml of developer diluted to 1+30 or 1+60.
Development time at 1+30: 6:30 mins, at 1+60: 13 mins.
Delta 400 also achieves the true 400 ISO at 1+60 with the same development time as the HP5.
I’ve now tested the Foma400 again, as it’s actually quite good for the price, using a 1+60 dilution with 20ml of developer and a 13-minute development time. Here, it doesn’t reach 400 ISO (which it never has), but around 320 ISO.
My recommendation: although 6ml of developer is supposed to be enough for a (roll) film, I say: don’t be so stingy with the amount, as it’s still very inexpensive.
Because the 1+60 dilution gives you manageable development times which – interestingly – are all the same for HP5, Delta 400 and Foma 400. Very handy.
I hope Adox keeps mixing up the HC-110 for a long time to come.
