ABSTRACT
There are a wide range of possibilities to choose from in selecting a developer that is appropriate for the film and its intended application. A developer plays a vital role in determining a number of key factors in the making of the final negative. The developer formula selected — its dilution; degree of exhaustion; temperature of use; frequency, duration, and degree of agitation; and time the film is in the solution — are all adjustable controls each photographer can use to get the desired results from any developer. Developers contain four basic parts: developing agent; preservative, which slows the rate of developer oxidation; accelerator, which energizes the developer; and restrainer, which restricts the formation of excessive fog and/ or slows the rate of development. In chromogenic black-and-white film, as in most colour films, the developing process creates both silver particles and dyes.
