I've been using HP5+ @800 and developing in XTOL 1:1, 12:30 mins. @ 70 degrees, agitating 5 seconds every half minute per Kodak data sheets. The results have been good but I find I have to print at grade 1 or 1/2 because of the high contrast. Is this normal or am I doing something wrong?

-- Ed Berger (eberger@ibm.net), February 19, 2000

Answers

If the contrast is too high, you are over developing. Try a 30% reduction (or maybe more) in developing time.

-- William Marderness (wmarderness@hotmail.com), February 19, 2000.

As the previous poster says, try adjusting the development time. I am going through a similar process (HP5+, Xtol 1+1) at 68 deg. F. I started at Kodak's 14'15" and am now down to 13'. I am getting closer, but will tweak some more. I keep pretty good temperature control. One time, I goofed on the time in the cool water bath, and the temperature got down to about 66F at the end. The results seemed a little smoother! Let us know your results, please.

-- Paul Harris (pharris@neosoft.com), February 20, 2000.

Your HP5 in Xtol is too contrasty because you're pushing (overdeveloping) the film. Why are you doing that?

Try 10'30"/70F EI 400-500.

-- John Hicks (jbh@magicnet.net), February 20, 2000.

I need the extra speed when shooting in nightclub and low-light concert situations.

-- Ed Berger (eberger@ibm.net), February 20, 2000.

> I need the extra speed

OK, if you really need EI 800 you'll have to accept the increased contrast you get with HP5 in Xtol.

I suggest a developer that gives a little more speed with normal contrast. The "real" speed in the following developers is EI 640 when the film is developed to "normal" contrast.

HP5+ in Microphen 1:1

7'/75F EI 640 8'15"/75F EI 1000

HP5+ in DD-X 1:9

7'/75F EI 640

HP5+ in DD-X 1:4

9'/75F EI 1600

If you can stand the increased graininess:

Delta 3200 in Microphen (straight) 7'/75F EI 2000.

-- John Hicks (jbh@magicnet.net), February 21, 2000.

Thanks, John. I just got some DD-X so I'll give it a try.

-- Ed Berger (eberger@ibm.net), February 22, 2000.