Keep it simple. Your neg is in the ballpark and you want to adjust. Limit variables with a standard lens, film (EI 400), illumination (sunlight) , exposure (sunny 16), development (Rodinal dilution/temp/agitation/time) and print paper (grade 2). Lose the meter(s), lose the zone system, lose the grey card, lose other complications, graduate with Father Guido Sarducci's 5-minute sensitometry degree by understanding: expose for acceptable above-toe (above threshold) shadow density and develop for the sub-shoulder highlight density to print on, for example, a grade 2 paper.
First, adjust exposure variable. If too thin, add a stop or two. If too dense, reduce by a stop or two.
Second, adjust development time variable. If shadow density is acceptable and highlights are too dense for printing on grade 2 paper, then reduce D-76 development time by a minute or two (more or less). If shadow density is acceptable and highlights are too thin, then increase D-76 development time by a minute or two (more or less as needed).
After a few rounds you will arrive at what you like with no grey card, no meter, no zones, no complications and simply by applying the take-away from Father Guido Sarducci's 5-minute sensitometry degree.
Have fun out there and don't sweat the unnecessary.
Steve, zoneless
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