Digital BW, The Print

Hello Truman,

>My question is what is TriX like these days and how does it compair
>to TMax and what are the developer combinations/times that work well
>for TriX. I live in FL and it is difficult to get my water below 75 
>degrees and year round it is between 75 and 80 degrees so that 
>somewhat limits the developer.

I'm a Tri-X user too, and also live in Florida (WPB).  I shoot mostly
6x7, with some 6x6 and 35mm.  I keep jars of water in the fridge and
mix it with tap water to get the 68F.

For several years I tried most of the new BW films that came along but
always kept coming back to Tri-X.  I finally quit wasting time and
stuck with Tri-X.  T-Max in particular I didn't like because of its
"creamy" look.  Ugh.  I shoot 400 Tri-X at 200 and the 320 Pro stuff
(not as nice IMO) at 180.

My favorite results are from very dilute HC-110.  I use 5/8 oz to 30
oz water (2-reel tank - I use 30 oz to leave room for good air
movement durig agit; otherwise uneven development) at 68F.  One shot,
I stir it in a few ozs of tap water until dissolved, then add cold
from the jar with a dial thermometer - instant response.  Develop 5.5
minutes with gentle agit every 30 secs.  Increase/decrease time a bit
to push/pull.  Wonderful sharp, clear classic Tri-X look.  

I did some experiments some years ago and kept diluting the HC-110
more and more to see how far it could go.  Was amazed at the good
results and reduced grain at that much dilution.  This ratio was the
magic point.  Also gives you more rolls from one bottle.

Regards,
Clayton


Info on black and white digital printing at    
http://www.cjcom.net/digiprnarts.htm