Info about Film Developing
The Basic Process of Film Developing
The most important thing to know about developing film is that is extremely light sensitive. It is much more sensitive that the paper that is used to make prints of your photos. Film is usually tightly rolled into a canister when it is taken from the camera. The canister must be opened in total darkness and put onto the developing reel. The film is held by the developing reel as it is bathed in the chemicals used for developing. This helps to make sure that all of the film is exposed evenly to the chemicals and it keeps the film from sticking together. The smallest ray of light will cloud the film and you will not be able to use it for making prints.
After the film has been wound onto the reel it can be placed in a canister that is light-proof for processing. It is safe to carry the film into the light only after the canister is tightly sealed. Different chemicals are used to develop color film than the ones used for black and white. The color chemicals are much more dangerous to use. Chemicals should be properly disposed of and never poured down the drain.
You will sometimes hear film developing called film processing or simply, processing. During the developing process the film is exposed to the developing chemical first to bring out the image that is one the film. This is followed by a stop that stops the action of the developing chemical and makes sure that the film is not over-developed. The film is fixed after the stop and it can be taken out and dried. If you have hard water, you should use a water softener so that there will not be spots left on the film from the water.
You can find the chemicals to develop film at most photo supply companies. They are often sold in the powder form that has to be mixed with water so that the chemicals are fresh when they are used. You will also receive recommendations for timing with your chemicals. Each chemical works within a different time frame. If the film is left in the developer too long it will be ruined.
It is helpful to take a photography class if you have never developed film before. You will be able to get some experience developing film. During your photography class you will have access to labs and chemicals so you will not need to rent a darkroom or purchase your own chemicals. If you decide that you want to develop your own film for a long time after you take the class, you will be able to rent a darkroom and order the supplies you will need for developing your film. Some people even have a darkroom built in their house. A spare bathroom can be turned into an excellent darkroom because it will already have running water.
You may be looking for a new career or maybe you are just hunting a new hobby. Either way, photo developing can be a fun and interesting project.