I currently shoot 4x5 TMax 100 EI at 83, developed in trays with D:76 1:1. I am pretty satisfied with my results on the whole but recently I feel that the tona l scale is too contrasty - the middle greys are not smooth (for back of better w ording). This could be my developing but I am considering trying a faster film, ISO 400, as my understanding is that the faster the film the less contrasty the y tend to be (also bigger grains). My biggest enlargements are 16x20. This leaves me with 4 (albeit more, but for my area and availability), options: TMax 400; Tri X; HP5 Plus & Delta 400. I am not a big fan of the speed and dev elopment testing procedures and I realize that I "should" shoot them all and fig ure out which one is for me. However, I am looking for some direction from thos e who might have had some experience with the above 4 films that I can draw upon without having to test each film for EI and development times.
Looking at the Characteristic Curves on these they all look fairly similar. Are any of the films better suited for certain situations? Delta and TMax are newe r and therefore might they have more limitations with regards to available devel opers or in other regards? Any nuances that anyone has noticed and can share wi th me would be most greatly appreciated.
I continue to benefit from reading the Q&A on this forum and enjoy it immensely. Thanks to all those in advance who contribute.
Bookmarks