How to Use an AP Developing Tank for Film Processing

Quick Answer

The AP Developing Tank is a straightforward tool for developing 35mm or 120 film at home. The key is loading the reel correctly in complete darkness and following a consistent agitation schedule.

Step-by-Step: Loading and Processing Film in the AP Tank

1. Prepare Your Workspace and Chemistry: Set up your developing tank, reels, scissors, and film in a completely dark room or changing bag. Mix your developer, stop bath, and fixer according to their instructions and bring them to the correct temperature (usually 20°C/68°F). Check that the reels are bone dry before you start; moisture causes film to stick and load unevenly.
2. Load the Film onto the Reel in Total Darkness: In complete darkness, open the film canister, cut off the leader, and feed the film into the reel's center. Gently ratchet the reel back and forth to draw the film fully onto the spiral. Place the loaded reel onto the center column and close the tank lid tightly. If the film jams, stop and re-trim the leader. Forcing it can crease the emulsion.
3. Pre-Wet and Add Developer: With the lights on, pour in water at the same temperature as your developer and agitate for 1 minute. Pour out the pre-wet water, then pour in the developer. Start your timer immediately. A pre-wet helps the developer flow evenly and reduces air bubbles on the film surface.
4. Agitate According to Your Developer's Instructions: Invert the tank gently for the first 30 seconds, then give 5 inversions every 30 seconds for the rest of the development time. Tap the tank on a counter after each agitation to dislodge bubbles. Too much or too vigorous agitation can cause uneven development; stick to the recommended schedule.
5. Pour Out Developer, Add Stop Bath and Fixer: Pour out the developer at the end of the time. Add stop bath and agitate for 30-60 seconds. Pour out the stop bath, then add fixer and agitate according to the fixer's instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Use a separate funnel or measuring cup for each chemical to avoid cross-contamination.
6. Wash and Dry the Film: After fixing, wash the film with running water for 5-10 minutes or use a hypo clearing agent. Add a few drops of wetting agent to the final rinse, then hang the film to dry in a dust-free area. Do not touch the emulsion side when hanging; use film clips and a weight to prevent curling.

Product Facts

• AP Developing Tank: Includes two film reels; can develop 2x 35mm or 1x 120mm at a time. You can process multiple rolls in one session, saving time and chemistry.