Rodinal 1:100
By Scott Sandler
28 Jan 2008
Rodinal is the oldest continuously produced developer in the world. Dr. Momme Andresen invented the product in 1891. It was one of the first liquid film developers. It became immensely popular. The main ingredient is a chemical called p-aminophenol. It's fast working, less temperature dependent and developing power remains strong at low dilutions. Rodinal eventually fell out of favor with the advent of 35mm films due to the fact that it was not a fine grain developer. It produced very thick unpleasant grain. Rodinal regained popularity when advances in 35mm film technology created much finer grain films.
Rodinal is the swiss army knife of black and white film developers. Known for its shelf life, high acutance (sharpness), gradation, reliability and low cost per roll. Rodinal's formula contains no silver solvent. The film after development remains in its natural state. Lack of softening by a silver solvent leaves the film grains with a sharp edge.
Rodinal lasts a long long time. I even improperly put the cap on the bottle and it sat exposed for two months. The stuff was a nasty blackish brown when it should of been a sweet purple/pink. It still worked like a charm! Rodinal can be diluted 1:25, 1:50, 1:100 and even 1:200.
Here's how it goes. I use the 1:100 ratio; that is 5 ml solution for 500 ml of water for one roll. At this weak dilution rate the development is very even, slow and steady. No matter what type of film or water temperature, I develop my films for 10 minutes. Its a magical system that gives excellent results time and time again.
Combined with the Holga's randomness it's a divine combination! Sit back and enjoy the photo essay brought to you by Grace Church, Rodinal, Kodak Tmax 100, the Holga, my Canon scanner and yours truly.
