120 film developing

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I was wondering if you could give me a good site that tells you how to develop 120 black and white film. I am very good at developing 35mm film but have never developed 120 so I need the low down on the entire process. I know that its mostly the same as 35mm but my main conceren is getting CLEAN NEGATIVES. The `120 film is bigger and more likely to get water spots on it. Should I squeegee(something I hate doing doesnt seem safe for the film) or use photoflo (which works half the time)Please if you can help I would be very greatful. thank you.

-- steven jhonson (stevenkarl@juno.com), March 19, 2000

Answers

I never squeegee film, the process is the same for 120 as 35, I use photo sponges without the photoflo and have not problem with water spots. I think you will like the larger neg. Regards, Pat

-- pat j. krentz (krentz@cci-29palms.com), March 20, 2000.

We have discussed this problem several times on this list, so it might be convenient for you to browse the older threads.

Anyway: Here is a brief description of how avoid drying marks on film: Process as usual up to the final washing. Then DON'T SQUEEGEE! This might give you clean negatives, but it will also give you scratches. Instead, use a wetting agent in distilled or demineralised water. Then run to the kitchen accessories store to buy a small hand centrifuge for lettuce. Put in the reel with the film on one side and a suitable balance on the other. Whip of virtually all of the surface water by spinning the film for about half a minute or so. (To your arms, this half minute may seem an eternity!) There will not be any drop left on the film after this.

-- Thomas Wollstein (thomas_wollstein@web.de), March 20, 2000.


I think Pat's being able to get by without a wetting agent must have to do with his water supply. I simply am not able to do that, no matter how I treat my film otherwise.

chris

-- Christian Harkness (chris.harkness@eudoramail.com), March 21, 2000.


As the other posters said, same as 35mm. I always use hardener in my film fixer to guard against scratches. Make sure you're using the right amount of PhotoFlo--1 small capful to 20 ounces--agitate for :15 to :30, then hang 'er up and let 'er buck. Never touch the wet film emulsion with anything; it gets enough crap in it by itself.

-- Brian Hinther (BrianH@sd314.k12.id.us), March 22, 2000.

I have been down this road and Photoflo is a nightmare to work with on 120 film. You will never seem to get water spots off of the neg. Use Edwal LFN (wetting agent) from Abbey Camera and you will not have to squeegee at all. Just dry in a dust free place.

-- David Futch (swint66@aol.com), April 26, 2000.


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