Response to densitometer alternatives

Andy: Gordon Hutchings in his Book of Pyro describes the construction and use of a 'zone board.' This is an easy to build (about $10 worth of materials, and a hour or two) and easy to calibrate and use. Basically it makes a continuous (as opposed to stepped) density strip. Pyro is not any more difficult to use than any other developer, especially now that it is available in liquid form. Pyro negatives are much easier to print, especially on VC paper. In additon, if you are using a condenser enlarger, the stained image reduces the callier effect. It seems that all B&W film is overrated by about one stop. It is best to do your own personal film speed tests, but lacking that, just cut the rated speed in half.

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