The Practical Zone System for Film and Digital Photography, 6th Edition

Appendix H Films, Developers, and Processing

With the digital revolution in full swing, it feels almost nostalgic to be writing about films and developers. But the fact remains that there are still many photographers for whom silver-based processes are the absolute standard for quality and the work they produce can be exquisite. A good example of the persistence of classic black-and-white photography is the reemergence of Rodinal, albeit with a new name, Adonal. In 2006, at the writing of the previous edition, I included a memoriam to the passing of this remarkable developer. Since then, in 2008, there was enough demand for its unique qualities that its formula has been revived, so I can once again recommend its use.

Despite what advertising ...