Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 2001/07/13
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]E6 is very easy and economical to do yourself. I process dozens of 35mm, 120, & 122 rolls and 4x5 sheets each month. I buy Kodak's E6 "Single Use Chemistry Kit". http://www.kodak.com/global/en/professional/support/techPubs/ti2443/ti2443.shtml;$sessionid$V3FYH3QAAAR2PQHIO2SXWIQ The instructions tell how to mix it to any volume up to 5 liters. I typically mix either one or two liters, depending on what I have to process. I use JOBO Protectan Anti Oxidant Spray in the unused mixed and concentrate 1st developer and Color developer bottles. This works wonderfully. This is a six step process. Many people use the three step process but when I queried JOBO/Tetenal, their response was that the six step process is the professional standard. The manufacturing and testing of E6 film is based on the six step process. They said that while the three step process usually works OK, manufacturers do specify that some films are incompatible with the three step process. The only two steps that have rigid temperature constraints are the 1st developer and color developer. The others have a reasonably wide temperature window. This is a very easy process whether in a hand tank or a JOBO. The only difference being that a JOBO will let you do something else during the 35 minute process The unused chemicals protected via Protectan have a very long shelf life. Easily six to eight weeks. The protected concentrates are good for at least eight weeks. Another thought. It takes 1 liter to process four 35mm/36 rolls of film in a hand tank. A 5 liter kit therefore processes twenty rolls. In a JOBO, you can process 38 rolls in 5 liters of chemistry. Basically double. Same for 120 & 220 film. So with a JOBO, you both don't waste time and don't waste money. At 01:42 PM 7/13/01 -0500, S.K.Boyd wrote: >This isn't a "Leica" question, however I appreciate the opinions stated by >this group. > >For years I have used nothing but B&W. I am now going to start using >transparency films, and will be doing my own processing. The quantities >will not be large; only two to four rolls per week average, and I'll >probably use mostly Astia, or Kodak E100 series 35mm films. My photography >is entirely available light, and almost all daylight. > >I'm looking for suggestions on developers to begin with. Also is it worth >using semi-automated processors such as Jobo, or will regular tank >development be adequate, and give repeatable results. I've developed B&W >for over 40 years, and know how to control the process. > >I'm not a "Bokeh" type person, but usually want extreme sharpness, and >strive for maximum "in focus" in my photography. > >I do use the Leica M series, and have been doing so for the past year. > >Thanks, >Stu Boyd