Response to Fp4+ in ilfosol

I get the best results from FP-4+ in PMK (Pryo-Metol-Kodalk) but this may be a little too advanced if you are just starting out. The next best developer I've used (and my standard for 'pushing') is XTOL. The 'sol' in Ilfosol indicates that it is a SOLVENT developer. This means that some of the silver is 'desolved' and redistributed randomly in the emulsion. While this gives the appearance of 'fine' grain, it drastically reduces sharpness by eliminating the 'edge effect' in the emulsion. A sharp negative will always make a superior print (unless you are intentionally going for the fuzzy look.) Undiluted XTOL is slightly solvent, but diluted 1:2 or greater, the solvent action is virtually eliminated. Also, it's very safe, chemically, and easy to mix. The price is very low and you can get it anywhere.

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