Calibrating
Ilford FP4+
A controlled
negative
This project studies the exposure and development of an Ilford FP4+ 4×5 negative in order to establish a reliable combination for a correctly exposed and developed negative.
The test scene was constructed according to the principles of the Zone System. Its tonal values were deliberately arranged and measured so that specific areas corresponded to predetermined zones. By comparing the planned placement with the densities recorded in the negative and the resulting print, the test makes the photographic process measurable rather than intuitive alone.
A sequence of development times reveals how contrast, effective film speed and density range change under controlled conditions. The three study plates document the relationship between negative density, print density and paper exposure scale, while the complete test report records the sensitometric curves and measurements.
Linhof Technikardan 45 · Linhof Schneider APO 210mm f/5.6 MC · Ilford FP4+ · ISO 100 · 4×5 sheet film · Ilford DD-X 1+7 · 20°C · 500 ml · Manual agitation
4 min · 5.5 min · 8 min · 11 min · 16 min · 22 min
I would like to thank Tim Hall, Fred Newman and Matthew Koller for their guidance and support in the development of this technical process.
Exposure and density studies
Sensitometric curves
and measurements
This ten-page PDF is the technical documentation for the Ilford FP4+ film test. It contains the complete density table, characteristic curves for each development time, average gradient, subject brightness range and effective film-speed calculations.
Paper response
and contrast
This eight-page PDF documents the sensitometric test of Ilford Multigrade FB Glossy photographic paper. It records the density measurements and response curves obtained with four filtration combinations, together with the effective paper grade and ISO range.
Custom
Test Strip
This custom test strip was developed as a practical instrument for photographic paper calibration. The original design was conceived by George Popovici and manufactured in the United States by Matt Koller.
Designed for use with both the Omega D2 Super Chromega D Dichroic II 4×5 Enlarger and the Leica Focomat V-35 for 35mm negatives, the test strip works in conjunction with the RH Designs Analyser Pro. It enables controlled and repeatable exposure tests, supporting accurate evaluation of paper response, exposure time and contrast during the darkroom printing process.
By bringing together precise design, fabrication and practical darkroom testing, the instrument forms part of a broader research process dedicated to establishing a consistent and reproducible analogue printing workflow.
Design: George Popovici · Manufactured in the USA by Matt Koller
Omega D2 Super Chromega D Dichroic II 4×5 Enlarger · Leica Focomat V-35 · RH Designs Analyser Pro