Re: KOdak Tri-X processing

Carl Weese (cjweese@wtco.net)
Sat, 02 Aug 1997 20:23:23 -0500

Philippe,

<<<What is seducing in tri-X of course is its tonal range, and I
wondered if it would better suit to platinotypy, just for that reason.
I noticed that one may have huge grain differences when processing tri-X
with different developpers.>>>

Bear in mind, the main wonder of Tri-X (roll film: the sheet film is a
completely different emulsion) is the generous shoulder that lets
highlights record in a way that can be printed in normal gelatine-silver
enlargement. This isn't especially important when you will be enlarging
(either digitally or traditionally) to a negative for the final contact
printing.

Tri-X has also changed dramatically over the thirty years I've been
using it, though with a certain family resemblance. I don't believe the
current incarnation is as changeable in grain structure with developer
choice as the ones I grew up with.

Bottom line: to shoot 35mm for silver enlargement, I still wouldn't use
anything but Tri-X. For negatives to be enlarged for Pt/Pd, I'd go
immediately to TMY.---Carl