How to Develop 220 Film

There are many similarities between 220 film and 120 film, but 220 film does not have a paper backing. Because of this, the film is more sensitive to light. This tutorial will walk you through developing black and white 220 film.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 220 film
• Film canister
• Film spools
• Timer
• Developer
• Stop bath
• Fixer
• Water
• Hypoclearing agent
• Film developing bag
• Squeegee

1. In a pitch black space—either a completely dark room or inside a light tight bag—break open the film canister and find the film's edge. Pull the edge through the film spool and roll the film onto the spool. Insert the spools into the film canister.

2. Add developer to the film tank and shake for the length of time designated on the side of the film package. Make sure to agitate the tank for the first thirty seconds and for five seconds every 30 seconds.

3. Dump out the developer, and pour it in the stop bath.

4. Shake the stop bath in the 220 film tank for as long as the directions say to keep it in there, which should be about 30 seconds. If stop bath is not available, you can also run water in the tank for 30 seconds.

5. Dump out the stop bath and add the fixer. Shake the film canister with the fixer for the first 30 seconds and for five seconds every 30 seconds thereafter for four minutes. Do not shake the film tank in the last 30 seconds.

6. Dump out the fixer and add water with the hypoclearing agent. Shake the canister with the water and hypoclearing agent for the amount of time indicated on the package, about one minute. If you do not have hypoclearing agent, then use running water for about half an hour.

7. Open the canister and peel the film off the reel. Squeegee the film and hang it up to dry in a dust-free place. Your film is now ready.

Tips & Warnings

• If this is your first time developing film, it may be best to practice rolling the film onto the spool. It can be tricky, especially in the dark.
• Make sure to tap out air bubbles in each step. A good time to do this is after each shake. Bubbles can stick to your negative and ruin the picture.
• Most professional film processors will be able to develop 220 film. Do a little bit of research on film processors in the area before taking them in, as not all may do the process.
• Take care to make sure the 220 film does not get exposed to light. It is extra sensitive to light.

Resources

• The Essential Darkroom Book
• Black and white film processing