Light and Dark regions

[zauhar]

I am sure this is a great big FAQ, but I could not immediately get the answer via search.

I've just started developing my own film. The first roll turned out beautifully, so I can clearly do this -

BUT, the second roll is ruined - light a dark regions across the length of the film. I am going to assume I did not get the film on the reel correctly?

I have a small changing bag, it is warm and humid today, and the f--king bag wanted to stick to me and the film - I think that is not helping.

Appreciative of any insights,

Randy

P.S. I guess I answered my own question - examining the film I see faint sprocket holes going across some frames. Pisses me off as there were some nice images on this roll. I have a dark spot in the basement, I think I will use that instead of the bag.

 

[zauhar]

Don't give up on the bag, brother. But I understand your frustration.
Do your self a favor: sacrifice an un-shot roll of film and practice loading the reels outside the bag. Do it 50 times looking, another 50 with your eyes closed, and another 50 in the bag - all with that same "trainer" roll.

If you're still having problems, message me or re-post and I'm sure lots of support and tips will come your way. Until this year, for the last two decades, I've had a portable darkroom with me during my 6-9 months of the year that I'm on the road.
We'll get you going.
Persist.

Shane

Shane, thanks for the kind words of support. Although I didn't do it fifty times, I DID practice a lot with a wasted roll, and felt I had it down "OK", so this was frustrating.

One issue - even when looking at the damn thing in the light, it is sometimes a little difficult to get the the whole length of 36 exposures on the reel. Gets really stiff toward the end. I have a Paterson three-reel tank and a one-reel tank. I was trying to get a single reel in the bigger tank today, mainly because neither of these is sealed and the small one tends to spew fluid when I agitate (just twirling, not inverting!)

Also, I gotta say that the changing bag I acquired (purchased a fellow's entire darkroom setup) is a little snug, especially with the bigger tank.

Anyway, I will persevere, and will gladly take you up on the offer of advice.

Thanks!

Randy

 

[zauhar]

Shane, I could not go to sleep without making a successful roll.

I made numerous attempts with the bag - was able to get loading started, but always had the film balk about midway though.

Finally set up a little work area in the front of my basement, where it is absolutely dark. With some "breathing room", I could load the reel with no trouble, and use my big tank.

Now I have another nice set of negatives.

Next step is to start printing!

Thanks for the encouraging words.

Randy

 

[zauhar]

Thanks Shane! I need to get a scanner - I have been relying on the photo lab for scans.

(I am strongly considering Canon 9000, which will do negatives and prints.)

Will post soon.

Randy