Sandy,
As I mentioned in another post, it is very easy to achive a density range of
1.8. I can easily achieve 2.1 or 2.7. Since you are using continous-tone
negative as the first step, you should have no problem at all using APHS with
Dektol (unless for some other reason you prefer PMK). If you find that it is
still a little difficult to achive the density range that you need, the
easiest way is to increase the density range of your interpositive.
>> One quick observation I want to make from this experiment, after plotting
the interpositives made with FP4 in dilute D-23, is that the FP4/D23 1:3
combination produces a characteristic curve that is more straigh-lined
than any developer/film combination I am familiar with. I had not used D23
before so this particular finding was a real bonus from this work.
>>
That is the wonderful characteristic of Metol. It is slow working but develop
everything nicely and proportionally. On the other hand, hydroquinone boost up
the highlights (and so achieve the range faster) but doesn't allow enough time
for the shadows to develop so you get longer toe.
To increase the range of your interpositive, you can develop it longer in D23,
or add a small amount of hydroquinone, or use higher alkaline (borax-boric
acid combo or balanced alkali).
>> and have reached the point where I can definitely say that it is possible
to make
You sentence ended abruptly (or never ended). Were you disconnect before you
finished? :) With a continous-tone interpositive, I have no doubt *at
all* that APHS can give the density range since the film itself is capable of
giving density range much higher than we need. The problem I was trying to
solve was if one wants to use APHS also as interpositive.
Dave S