I understand that Ilford recommends using water instead of stop bath for film. What I need to know is how to go about it. I can't open up the developing tank, so I can't really use running water. Do I just pour water in and agitate for a certain amount of time (how long)? Is that really effective? I mean does water stop the development as effectively as stop bath?

Thanks, Mike Anderson

-- Anonymous, May 09, 1997

Answers

Stop bath

It is my understanding that the stop bath needs to be slightly acidic to stop the development process. Some add a few drops of acetic acid to pure water. I just use plain water most of the time since I live in an area that has some of the softest water in the world, which means that it has very little buffering and tends to be on the acidic side. I haven't encountered any problems but then I have never used a commercial stop bath so I can't compare to it.

-- Anonymous, May 10, 1997

Mike, I went to a short seminar by Ilford education people this winter & you are right, no stop with their films was the recommendation. Just add the water like the stop bath . I have always used a very, very dilute stop and still do, probably more due to my insecurities than any quantifiable reason. The Ilford gang said it won't hurt, but the water is sufficient due to the newer emulsion characteristics, and by keeping the stop away from the film the 'pinhole' problems some experience due to the rapid intro of acid will stop. I really came away with the feeling that consistent technique is more important, whichever way you go.

-- Anonymous, May 10, 1997