120mm uneven development

[Merelyok]

Hi all,

I've moved from 35mm B&W self-processing to 120mm self-processing. I haven't had much problems with 35mm but i seem to be getting uneven development issues with my 120mm developing.

I use a Paterson tank which states 500ml of developer for one 120mm reel.I use exactly that amount. i use HC-110b (usually with T-max 100, one off. I tried FP4+ once and got the same problems again). I'm getting nice tones (or rather i think i do, but the uneven edge is really bugging me.) There seems to be some purplish left-over on the film edge, which i believe could be anti-halation resiude.

My agitation technique is to inverse the first 30 seconds for the 1st min and 10 seconds for every min thereafter. I use ilfotec rapidfixer thereafter for 6 mins, washing for 10 mins under cool water.

Some sample pics:

(note uneven contrast on left)

(on right)

(ditto)

I'm starting to think i need abit more than the 500ml of developer recommended by Patterson. Also, i reckon its not a camera problem since i've used a Mamiya, a Minolta and a Bronica and get the same results.

 

[Merelyok]

Another picture that shows the issue.

Thanks for looking guys!

 

[newsgrunt]

is the reel seated at the bottom of the core ? if not, that could explain the underdeveloped area

 

[Merelyok]

is the reel seated at the bottom of the core ? if not, that could explain the underdeveloped area

It's pushed all the way down, it that's what you mean...

 

[naruto]

I have had the same problem when I use less developer than required. I usually add a bit more than 500ml. 600 should work fine depending on the tank that you are using.

 

[Merelyok]

I have had the same problem when I use less developer than required. I usually add a bit more than 500ml. 600 should work fine depending on the tank that you are using.

Thanks for the tip, will try it with the next roll i shoot.

 

[newsgrunt]

I must say I'm stumped because the last photo you show (girl w/hands in hair) shows a wide dark band but also a sliver on the other side of it that looks the same density as the rest of the frame. So if it's insufficient developer levels, how could this happen ?

Puzzling...