Field Notes

Journal

Notes on film photography, darkroom chemistry, and building Analogly.

All Film Stocks In the Darkroom Technique

In the Darkroom · September 14, 2026
Darkroom Tip: Stand Development: Patience in a Jar
Rodinal 1+100, one hour, almost no agitation — compensating development with huge latitude.
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In the Darkroom · September 7, 2026
Darkroom Tip: Pushing Film Is Mostly Pushing Contrast
Extended development lifts the mid-tones and highlights — the shadows barely move.
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In the Darkroom · August 31, 2026
Darkroom Tip: Distilled Water for the Last Rinse
Drying marks are minerals, not bad luck.
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In the Darkroom · August 24, 2026
Darkroom Tip: Water Bath or Acid Stop?
Both work for film — what matters is that you always do the same one.
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In the Darkroom · August 17, 2026
Darkroom Tip: The Clip Test: Never Guess at Fixer
Fix for twice the clearing time — and retire fixer when clearing takes twice as long as fresh.
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In the Darkroom · August 10, 2026
Darkroom Tip: Agitate Like a Metronome
Over-agitation builds contrast and grain; inconsistent agitation builds surge marks.
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In the Darkroom · August 3, 2026
Darkroom Tip: Keep Every Bath Within a Degree
A warm developer and a cold wash is a recipe for reticulation and mottled grain.
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In the Darkroom · July 27, 2026
Darkroom Tip: One Thermometer to Rule Them All
Consistency beats accuracy: use the same thermometer for every bath, every session.
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