Developing BW400CN by myself?

[lubitel]

Hello,

I am very inexperienced when it comes to developing and printing. Is it possible to develop BW400CN film on my own? what chemicals do i need and what times etc.?

thank you.

 

[P C Headland]

That film is designed for processing in colour (C-41) chemistry.

That said, you can process it at home using a home C-41 kit. You can also process it B+W checmicals, but this isn't really the best way.

If you want to process film at home, and are just starting out, you're better off getting a conventional B+W film (like Kodak's TriX 400 for example). It is generally recommended that you familiarise yourself with B+W developing before progressing to colour developing.

 

[Andrew Sowerby]

Developing "true" black and white film is much easier to do at home than C-41. C-41 B&W film like 400CN was developed so that people could just drop it off at one hour photo places. It doesn't really make sense to try and develop it at home. Go for the genuine article!

 

[Kragmeister]

My advice is don't do it. I used to process C41 myself using a regular inversion tank and it was a hassle. This was over 10 years ago, but at the time temperature control was critical and temperatures were elevated too. I also processed Ektaprint 2 color prints, same problems. The chemicals are hazardous too.

You are better off getting Tri-X or HP-5+ and traditional B&W chemicals. The process (while critical) isn't as hazardous or exacting. I've been using Agfa Rodinal, a one shot concentrated developer, and Heico NH-5 fixer with a water stop bath with good results in my kitchen.

Later,
Greg

 

[tetrisattack]

As a followup to a previous comment, sure, you can do C-41 at home, so long as you can keep a large water bath at 102.5 degrees fahrenheit and maintain it there for the duration of the process with +/- .1 degree accuracy. 🙂

It's a better idea to scrap the BW400CN and get some real b&w film, for the b&w process is simple, forgiving, and cheap.

 

[peterc]

Is it possible to develop BW400CN film on my own?

Yes.
But it's cheaper, faster and a lot less annoying to take your roll to a 1 hour photo and have them process and not print.

Peter

 

[lubitel]

okay okay I won't do it! 🙂

I'll get some real B&W for my own developing.

thanks!