To develop film, the general process involves several key steps: preparing the chemicals, loading the film into a developing tank, pre-washing the film, developing it in the developer solution, stopping the development, fixing the image, washing the film, and finally drying it. Here is a simplified overview of the process:
- Prepare your chemicals including developer, stop bath, and fixer according to the instructions for your specific film type (black and white, color C41, or motion picture film).
- Load your film onto a reel and place it inside a light-tight developing tank.
- Pre-wash the film with water to avoid air bubbles.
- Pour in the developer and agitate gently to develop the negatives for the recommended time based on your film and developer.
- Pour out the developer and pour in stop bath to halt development briefly.
- Pour out the stop bath and pour in fixer to make the image permanent.
- Wash the film thoroughly to remove all chemicals.
- Hang the film to dry completely before handling or scanning.
More detailed instructions vary based on film type and chemicals, but following careful timing, temperature, and agitation routines is essential for good results. This process can be done at home without a darkroom by using a changing bag or in total darkness. If desired, I can provide a step-by-step guide specific to black and white or color film development methods. This summary pulls from multiple detailed guides I found on developing film at home for black and white and C41 color film processing.
