Developer shelf life

[Henry Ambrose]

Neil, Ansco 130 is a very long lasting developer and it makes excellent prints on all the Ilford, Bergger and Agfa papers I've tried in it. It is my favorite paper developer. I use a "semi-replenishment" method where I replace what carries out of the developer tray each session. I've used the same batch for months at a time. I keep two quarts and then each time I start a new session I add a bit of fresh working solution, perhaps half a pint. When I'm done it goes back in the bottles until next time. It is available as a powder from Photographers Formulary in varous size kits.

[neil poulsen]

Using a powder developer doesn't have to be that onerous. One of the neatest pieces of equipment in my darkroom is an automatic stirrer.

It comes with about a 2" magnetic rod that's covered in plastic that can be dropped in the mixing vessel (plastic container with top purchased at department store) along with the water and chemistry. I place this on the stirrer and come back in an hour. Everythings completely dissolved.

I purchased mine used for $150. For me, it's worth every dollar!

The most important aspect of using powder is the health hazard of breathing it in. I hold my breath as I pour it in the water. I leave, and come back when the dust has settled. Or, one can immerse the bag in the water when pouring.