4x5 in rollfilm tanks.

[hamradio]

With a Graphic View and 4x5 Crown Graphic at my disposal, I'm diving head first into 4x5–something I've not yet messed with. I suppose the natural progression is to continue seeking out larger film. 😉

I've heard about the 4x5 'tortilla method' for using patterson-style rollfilm tanks. As far as I gather, one sort of folds the film up in the shape of a tortilla shell, emulsion side inward, and places an elastic hair band around the outside.

Does one need to space these from the bottom of the tank, to ensure developer moves about the tank as it should? How many can I expect to fit into a tank made for two 35mm reels or one 120 reel? Do I need to presoak the film?

Thanks!

 

[Laviolette]

You might find what you look for on this Flickr set : http://www.flickr.com/photos/digi-film/sets/72157627864733730/

 

[Particular]

The tortilla method works, but it is not ideal. Depending on your tank, you should be able to fit 4 films vertically in a Patterson or small Jobo style tank. I found some great silicone rubber hairbands at duane reade (now owned by walgreens) in NY. They are easy to clean, and don't mark the film. I did notice some colors glowing in the dark, so check for that. I would wash the film outside of the tank, to fully clear the backing where the rubber band was. I just popped them in and did everything else as if it was roll film. Don't forget to put the center core in or you will have light leaks.

If you have a darkroom or bathroom that blacks out well, an alternative is open tray developing. I've had better results with that. Best of course is a tank designed for the purpose.

 

[vdonovan]

I recently developed some 4x5 using the tortilla method in a Paterson double tank and it worked fine. I got marks on my film from the hairbands the first time I tried it. The second time I made a point of moving the bands a few times during fix and wash and didn't get any marks.

 

[enero]

Huh, I never heard of this method, pretty cool 🙂

Before I settled on a Jobo Multitank, I was going to get one of those DIY inserts for my Paterson tank. This looks like it would more consistent than with the insert.

 

[Lou Iaquinto]

Hi,

You might want to have a look at one of these:http://www.mod54.com

They're expensive for a bit of plastic but they do work once you get the hang of it. When the local photo mob started to stock them I couldn't resist. I've used trays but haven't tried the tortilla method yet.

Good luck with it,

Lou

 

[Rangefinderfreak]

leica was invented to get rid of those bulky monster cameras... why should you go backwards in technology...

 

[thegman]

I developed my first 4x5 negatives about a week ago using the tortilla method, didn't like it. I found it very fiddly indeed. Maybe better hairbands would do it, but at the moment I'm considering a mod54 setup.

 

[Particular]

leica was invented to get rid of those bulky monster cameras... why should you go backwards in technology...

...and slrs were invented to get rid of those squinty little leicas. Given that leica just bought sinar, perhaps 4x5 is not so backwards after all.

 

[Moto-Uno]

Nice reply.....Peter

 

[Uncle Fester]

If you already have a Paterson tank, This may be of interest to you...

http://www.freestylephoto.biz/1174296-MOD54-4x5-Processing-Reel-for-Paterson-Tank

 

[rjbuzzclick]

I use paper drums and develop up to four 4x5 sheets in just 200ml of chemistry.