Digital BW, The Print

Scott-

Exposure for the negative is roughly twice that for the print. You'll learn 
to evaluate the print for the negative with a little practice. Reciprocity for 
the negative is not the same for the print. The prints, by the way, can be 
stunning.

You can make the exposure for the negative and remove the film pack from the 
holder without processing. Mark the exposed packet, to avoid double exposing, 
and process everything when you return to the darkroom (or kitchen/bathroom).

Processing is very simple. Reinsert the packet into the Polaroid holder, flip 
the level to process, and pull. Depending on ambient temperature, development 
time is usually between 20-60 seconds. Peel apart, separate the film from the 
paper, and immerse immediately in a 18% sodium sulfite solution. You can use 
almost any container large enough to hold the film for clearing; Polaroid 
sells a plastic bucket with a nice insert. You'll see the negative begin to clear 
almost immediately. When cleared, you can simply wash and hang to dry.

Better yet, see if you can find a (rare) copy of the Ansel Adam's Polaroid 
book. The chapter on visualization is one of the best ever written on 
photographic practice.

One last thought: I'd be careful with the old Polaroid 4x5 scanners. You can 
probably do as well today with a new Epson or Microtek flatbed. You'll have 
firewire connectivity, better software, and technical support.



Bill Kennedy
Associate Professor of Photocommunications
St. Edward's University
512/448-8680


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