randy_johnson5

Since many folks prefer to scan black & white negatives and print on a photo printer rather than print using an enlarger, I would like to propose a way to calibrate the Zone VIII film development test using a scanner and densitometer. Needed: A photo scanner & densitometer. (Note: it is possible that some scanners have a densitometer capability but I am not knowledgeable) A photographic film tablet (step wedge) – calibrated or not. Knowledge in how to do the Zone System film speed test. A photo printer Step 1. After completing the film speed test, then expose a negative for Zone VIII. Develop the film normally according to the manufacturers instructions. Step 2. Scan the photographic tablet (step wedge) and print it on your printer. Step 3. Choose the step that best represents a Zone VIII print value that has just a bit of tone before all other steps are pure white. Step 4. Measure the density of the step that prints Zone III. Step 5. Measure the density of your exposed Zone VIII negative and compare with the density of the step wedge in the previous step. If the step wedge density is greater than your exposed Zone III exposure increase development time by 25% and re-test as above. If the step wedge density is less than your exposed Zone VIII negative then reduce development time by 25% and re-test as above. I believe this system will yield Zone VIII negative values that will print as Zone VIII print values. If you don't have access to a densitometer you can try and eye ball the comparison between the step wedge and Zone VIII negative. It will at least get you in the "ball park." Thoughts?

I wouldn't recommend it. Too much agitation and possible damage to other negs banging around. Just use tray development.