Q&A for How to Develop Color Film

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  • Question
    Can I develop color film at home?
    Or Gozal
    Photographer
    Or Gozal has been an amateur photographer since 2007. Her work has been published in, most notably, National Geographic and Stanford University's Leland Quarterly.
    Photographer
    Expert Answer
    Yes, but you should be careful. I’d suggest labeling your baths very clearly to avoid mix-ups.
  • Question
    When hanging the film to dry, does the space need to be light proof?
    Community Answer
    No, after the film is developed and fixed, it is not light-sensitive. Just make sure it is hanging to dry somewhere where it will not collect dust, as it is very susceptible to that when wet.
  • Question
    Is the process/chemicals of developing black and white film vs. color film the same?
    Community Answer
    They are not the same. Developing color photos uses a different (and potentially dangerous) mix of chemicals and a more elaborate process, as you have to develop three "colors" - magenta, cyan, and yellow.
  • Question
    What is the sign that the developer is exhausted?
    Community Answer
    You should always dump the developer you've used after you use it and are cleaning up your darkroom. For stop bath, you can save it until it turns purple, and you should check your fixer with hypo-check before each use. If your fixer is spent, the water will get cloudy where you put the drop of hypo-check.
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