How to Process Fiber-Based Photo Paper
Photographic paper is generally classified into fiber-based paper and resin-based paper. Fiber-based photo paper is used to make high-quality photographs for exhibition purposes. Fiber-based photo paper requires more care in processing but is easier to retouch than resin-based paper.
Items Needed:
- Developer
- Stop bath
- Fixer
- Hypo bath
- Tongs
- Fiber-based photo paper
- Mix the developer solution, stop bath solution, fixer solution and hypo solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Fill four film trays in a darkroom with the solutions.
- Grip the fiber-based photo paper with rubber-tipped tongs, and place it into the developer solution. Keep the photo paper in the developer for up to three minutes, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Film development time is typically standardized for a darkroom temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. A higher temperature reduces the development time such that a temperature of 80 degrees Fahrenheit will develop the film in about half the standard time.
- Transfer the photo paper from the developer solution to the stop bath with the tongs. Keep the photo paper in the stop bath for up to 30 seconds.
- Remove the photo paper from the stop bath with the tongs, and allow it to drain for a few seconds. Place the photo paper in the fixer solution for up to five minutes.
- Remove the photo paper from the fixer solution with the tongs, and rinse it in running water for about two minutes.
- Move the photo paper to the hypo bath and keep it there for up to two minutes. Remove the photo paper and dry it.