I am looking for a black and white 400 speed film that will result in the least noticeable grain. I know that developers can make a difference, but I've been using HC110 almost excusively so I can't compare it to other developers. I've had good results with neopan 400 and HC110 but I'd like to do better if possible.

-- Dan Gihring (dgihring@coolmail.net), October 12, 1999

Answers

Dan, Delta 400 and Xtol works well.

-- Don Sparks (Harleyman7@aol.com), October 12, 1999.

I just started using HC110 with Tri-X, but fine grain is not a concern for me. If you want fine grain with an ASA 400 film, try TMAX 400 with HC110. I've also had really fine grain with the chromogenic films T400CN and Ilford XP2 (C41 process). However, I think T400CN is essentially the "chromogenic cousin" of TMAX400.

-- Asher (schachter@a1.tch.harvard.edu), October 12, 1999.

If you are talking exclusively grain size, I think T-Max 400 is probably the best, and it has the additional benefit a true 400 exposure index with several developers, including PMK. Personally, I like Delta 400's scale better, but I can only get about an EI 250 out of it.

-- Ed Buffaloe (edbuffaloe@unblinkingeye.com), October 12, 1999.

Tmax 400 in Xtol diluted 1+2 does it for me.

-- Tim Brown (brownt@ase.com), October 12, 1999.

I've tried them all. Ilford XP2 suits me best - no grain visible even at 20x16s. Give it a try. Some folks don't like the complete absence of grain, but I now only use XP2.

-- Anthony Brookes (gdzoo@dial.pipex.com), October 12, 1999.

I would second many of the opinions above. So, I'll try to summarize the concensus which is also my personal opinion. I find the chromogenic films to be least grainy, either TMax400CN or XP2. TMax400CN tends to give more contrast than XP2, however. Delta 400 would be my choice if I am going to shoot true black and white film. I develope it with 1+3 Xtol with good results. Lastly, I would go with Tmax 400. Good luck.

-- David (dna2367@hotmail.com), October 13, 1999.

T-Max 400 and photographer's Formulary BW-2.Seriously sharp neg's with minimal grain.

-- Walter Massa (Massacam@aol.com), October 13, 1999.

With TMax 400, I use Edwal FG7 diluted 1:15 with a 9% Sodium Sulfite solution. This combination gives excellent grain, good shadow detail, good contrast, and full film speed.

-- John Boeckeler (Boeck@mail.tds.net), October 26, 1999.

With TMax 400, I use Edwal FG7 diluted 1:15 with a 9% Sodium Sulfite solution. This combination gives me excellent grain, good shadow detail, good contrast, and full film speed.

-- John Boeckeler (Boeck@mail.tds.net), October 26, 1999.

See "Mix and Match" feature on B&W World for ranking of film/developer sharpness and grain. The only way you're going to get fine grain with any 400 speed film is to use the Chromogenics/c-41.

-- Bill Mitchell (bmitch@home.com), October 26, 1999.