Response to Kodak 120 Tri-X pan and 400 pro development

Tri-X 400 tends to have better mid-tone and shadow separation. The professional 320 iso version is designed for optimum highlight separation but has rather poor shadow & mid tone separation compared to the 400 iso non professional version. The reason for these differences is because the 400 iso tri-x is designed for general shooting conditions but the 320 iso film is actually designed for best results in studio conditions with artificial light where highlight separation is of greater concern. I have processed the professional version in d-76 diluted 1:1 without problems, one needs only to extend development time appropriately. When you dilute d 76 the tonal range is slightly improved and the film sharpness is also improved although there is a marginal increase in grain ( not really an issue especially with MF) This is true with either film (and any other film you care to test) and there is no reason not to treat the 320 iso film in the same manner as the 400. Having tested both films with a densitometer i have found that the true speed of each film is 200 asa for the normal tri-x and 160 asa for the professional version. This gives a true zone 1 shadow density, much finer grain and a much longer, more beautiful tonal range than the manufacturers ratings will provide. I process tri-x 400 rated at 200 iso in d-76 1:1 ( with a pre rinse of the film before processing ) at 20 degrees celcius for 7.5 minutes, this prints very well on grade 3 paper for a diffusion enlarger. I think the 200 iso film produces a nicer tonality than the 320 iso film, is about half a stop faster, it pushes better ( when nescesscary ) and keeps better. The 320 iso film has got slightly finer grain & better highlights but the shadow separation can get be pretty poor.

As far as other reccomendations Hp5 plus is an excellent film with better sharpness than tri-x 400 & good mid tones and highlights. For enlargements with an ultra sharp look ( especially with zeiss lenses ) it is magic. Tri -x 400 does seem to have a slightly nicer overall tonality however. For hp5 plus i rate it at 200 asa. With a pre wash I process in id-11 at 1:1 dilution at 20 degrees celcius for 12.5 minutes .

i hope this is of some help

[ Previous | Next ]