I have finally solved my scum problem on negatives (I swab with a 1% solution of Sodium Carbonate) but now I notice a pitting of the emulsion. From a sharp angle against the light it looks like craters on the moon. Some of them effect the level of light going through the emulsion. I use rodinal, a brief stop bath, fresh rapid fixer then water, hypo clear, water and photo-flo using distilled water. Any ideas on what is causing this pitting of the emulsion?

-- Phil Glass (Phi_glass@yahoo.com), January 18, 2002

Answers

Phil,

What film are you using? Try using running water in place of your stop bath. I know that "tanning" developers, such as Pyro, will produce an uneven surface, but I remember hearing this with others. You should also make sure that all of you chemistry is mixed properly.

-- Ed Farmer (photography2k@hotmail.com), January 18, 2002.

I am using agfa 100 sheet film. I believe all the chemicals are mixed correctly, but of course something could be wrong. I am testing at the moment but would like to know other's findings. Thanks.

-- Phil Glass (Phi_glass@yahoo.com), January 18, 2002.

It sounds like your photoflo is to strong... creating small bubbles that dry and create small ridges

-- Scott Walton (scotlynn@shore.net), January 18, 2002.