ilfotec hc mistake

[mark_lapolt___new_haven__c]

Well, I must have mis-clicked somewhere, because my latest shipment

from B&H contained Ilfotec HC instead of the DD-x that I thought I

ordered. I have two choices, either use it, or return it for the DD-

X, and eat the shipping back and forth.

 

I looked into HC on Ilford's web site, and it claims to be a general

purpose developer. The comparison chart lists the trade-off to be

sharpness at the expense of grain.

 

I was wondering if there were any HC users out there who can give me

an evaluative comparison of the two developers.

 

I typically use the Ilford Delta family of films. I have a project

coming up using Delta 3200, in a city (New Haven) at night under

moonlight and street lamps. I'm not interested too much in

controlling the grain in this instance, as grain is a vital component

of the look I'm going for. (I may even push to 6400 to accentuate the

grain, but this may not be needed with the HC)

 

I also use Delta 100 for studio portrais and landscapes and Delta 400

as a general purpose, walkin' around type film.

 

Thanks for you input.

[john_shriver]

Note that it is similar to, but not identical to, Kodak HC-110, so old comments on that will be appropriate.

[jimvanson]

Mark -- When I first started working in the darkroom there was a half case of Ilfotec HC sitting there. Needless to say I used it all.<P>Free it was alright BUT I'd never buy it as it turns out I'm more of an XTOL, Microphen & Rodinal guy. (I should mention I'm not too keen on HC110 either)<P>.If I was Shooting D3200 at more then 3200 I'd use Microphen.<P>3200 or less? Xtol 1+2.

[david_carper]

While the ILFOTEC HC is a good developer in its own right, it does not generally do too well with the Delta 3200 rated at 3200 or even 1600. It does not have the natural extra shadow detail that is obtained with the ILFOTEC DD-X, and is not as well suited for push-processing.

Of course, you'll never know for yourself unless you try, but I suspect that you'll prefer the ILFOTEC DD-X for your Delta 3200, even if you like the ILFOTEC HC for your other films.

 

David Carper

 

ILFORD Technical Service