BW Development > What time can I switch the lights on?

[l2oBiN]

I am in the process of developing my first BW photo. At what time point can I switch the lights on? As soon as it hits the fixing step?

[Pawlowski6132]

As soon as it's out of the stop.

[bob carnie]

No

give it at least 30 seconds to take hold in fix.
for final prints I do not turn on the lights until after 2mins.

As soon as it's out of the stop.

[l2oBiN]

let me be more clear, I am developing my first BW negative. When can I switch the lights on?

[bob carnie]

Then I would wait until a few minutes go by using a good fresh fix.

You can tell the fixing time by dipping a piece of film into your fix and seeing how long it takes to clear, I would then double or triple that time to be safe.

[l2oBiN]

Hmm. i am still unclear on this matter. Do I need to keep it in the dark while its in the fix?

[sanking]

Hmm. i am still unclear on this matter. Do I need to keep it in the dark while its in the fix?

No, once the film is in the stop bath, assuming a fresh and normal strength acetic acid stop bath, you can turn the lights on. No more development will take place once the film has been in the stop bath for 10-15 seconds.

Sandy King

[Sirius Glass]

What Sandy said if you are talking about regular lights; the safe lights can be on all the time.

Steve

[Lachlan 717]

What Sandy said if you are talking about regular lights; the safe lights can be on all the time.

Steve

Not for film.

[Brian Ellis]

When I used the BTZS tubes I turned the room lights on when I started developing. If you're using trays you should wait until the film hits the stop bath.