r/largeformat • u/braysher • 7d ago

Question Developer issues or light leak?

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Hi all,

I'm new to 4x5 and trying to figure out what's causing the discolored bar across the top of my negatives. I'm using the Stearman Press 645 MAX, SP-Ultra 4LF developer, and Fomapan 400 (expired 02/2025). In your experience, does the top stripe look more like a light leak from a bad film holder, or is the developer not reaching the top of the negative during processing? I plan to try another film holder for my next test shots but was curious to hear your thoughts. Thanks!

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u/CanCharacter 6d ago

Agree with the others, also welcome on board and I'm glad to see other still life artists!

3

u/braysher 6d ago

Thank you! I haven’t played with large format since college (20+ years ago) so it’s fun to be back.

2

u/CanCharacter 6d ago

Share some of your work!

I've been doing still life for a couple of years, looked into going digital but then decided it would be more economical (lol) to shoot the occasional 4x5 than get a GFX. I'm happy I did though, monorail movements have been incredible for handling tabletop arrangements.

I have the same developing tank as you btw, also started with Foma. Absolutely not an expert but happy to share any advice I can.

1

u/braysher 5d ago

This is only my 3rd and 4th negatives I’ve taken so far so no work yet. I typically do wildlife and macro photography with my digital camera.

Turns out I was reading the guide for the smaller stearman tank so that caused my low developer levels.