Push and Pull Processing

Push and Pull Processing

If you push your film (see Pushing film) to a higher speed, you must increase development time to avoid underexposure. If you push your films regularly, you know it costs a lot to have the lab push process your film. You can easily push process your own films if you do your own processing. The only difference between push processing and normal processing is the increased time in the first developer. At 38 degree C which is the ideal temperature for E-6 processing, normal first developing time is 6 1/2 min including the time it takes you to pour in and pour out the chemical. Change the time according to the chemical manufacturers instruction for push processing and you are done. I use 9 minutes with Tetenal and Photo Color processing kits for one stop push processing, and 13 minutes for two stops. The temperature can be raised higher to reduce develop time. The best way to push process your film is to start with suggested time and temperature given by chemical manufacturer. You will notice that each brand is different. Run a few tests with your equipment to find the best time and temperature that gives you good results.
Pull processing is the opposite of push processing used for correcting film speed that was accidentally rated at a higher speed or to reduce contrast for making duplicate slides with normal daylight films. First developer time is now reduced. Other steps including color developer and bleach-fix need not change. Normal processing requires exact timing. When you push process films, being off by several seconds is really meaningless. Experiment for best results.

Recommended Reading: Into Your Darkroom Step-By-Step

Provides information on equipment, setting up a darkroom, developing negatives, making proof sheets and enlargements, and special techniques for fine prints.

E-6 First Developer (Makes 1 gal.)

Kodak Professional First Developer Replenisher, Process E-6 and E-6AR, is an improved formulation for processing color reversal films in Professional applications. This new chemical has enhanced stability that reduces the formation of precipitates in the concentrate if it is accidentally exposed to cold temperatures during shipping and storage. It also provides better process consistency, a cleaner working solution, and reduced foaming in the tank solution. Replenishment rates are the same as those for the current Kodak First Developer Replenisher, Process E-6, but the new chemical reduces the chemical load in processing effluents. First-developer effluent will have lower levels of chemical and biological oxygen demand (COD and BOD), as well as reduced Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), to benefit the environment. In addition, clearly marked expiration dates on the packaging ensure the highest possible quality of the concentrate you purchase. Because of significant changes in the formulation, you'll need to use a new starter, Kodak Professional First Developer Starter, Process E-6, to prepare a working tank solution from replenisher. However, it is not necessary to replace your entire tank solution when you convert to the new developer. You can use your remaining supply of Kodak First Developer Replenisher, Process E-6, and then replenish the tank with the first developer replenisher.