Quick answer
Mix Kodak HC-110 by diluting the concentrated syrup with water just before use, and treat it as a one-shot developer. For dilution B, use 1 part syrup to 31 parts water (about 16 ml per 500 ml). Store the undiluted syrup in a tightly capped, dark bottle at room temperature; it keeps for months, but always check for discoloration before mixing a working solution.
Why HC-110 is different from powder developers
HC-110 is a highly concentrated liquid, not a powder you mix into a stock solution. That means you skip the step of dissolving a large batch and instead measure a small amount of syrup for each tank. The concentrate is viscous, so you need a graduated cylinder or syringe that can handle small volumes accurately.
Because it is a one-shot developer, you dilute only what you need for a single development run and discard the used working solution. This avoids the variability of replenished systems and keeps your process simple, but it also means you must measure carefully every time.
Choosing a dilution: B, E, or something else
Kodak publishes several dilutions for HC-110, and the right one depends on your film, your desired contrast, and your development time. Dilution B (1:31) is the most common starting point for general black-and-white films and gives normal contrast with reasonable times. Dilution E (1:47) and other ratios are also used for different effects, but you should always follow the times published by Kodak or your film's datasheet for the specific dilution and temperature.
If you are new to HC-110, start with dilution B and a film you know well. Changing both dilution and developer at once makes it hard to judge what caused a change in your negatives.
Storage that actually protects the syrup
The concentrate is sensitive to oxygen and light. Keep it in its original bottle or a tightly capped dark glass bottle, and avoid leaving the cap off for long periods. A slight color change from pale yellow to darker amber is normal over time, but if the syrup turns very dark or shows sediment, discard it.
Do not store diluted working solution for reuse. Mix only what you need for the session and pour it out after development. This is the safest way to avoid inconsistent results and contamination.
Step-by-step: mixing and using HC-110
- Measure the concentrate accurately: Use a graduated cylinder or syringe to measure the syrup. For dilution B, measure 16 ml of syrup for every 500 ml of working solution. Common mistake: eyeballing the syrup or using a tablespoon, which leads to inconsistent dilution and development. Check your measurement tool is clean and dry before use.
- Add water at the correct temperature: Use water at the temperature specified in your development recipe (often 20°C/68°F). Add the measured syrup to the water and stir gently. Common mistake: mixing with water that is too warm or too cold, which affects development time and grain. Use a thermometer to confirm water temperature before mixing.
- Use the solution immediately and discard after use: Pour the working solution into your developing tank and develop according to your film's datasheet. After development, discard the used solution—do not store or reuse it. Common mistake: saving diluted developer for later, which can lead to inconsistent results or contamination. Label your tank with the dilution and time to avoid confusion.
- Store the concentrate properly: Wipe the bottle cap and threads clean, cap tightly, and store in a cool, dark place. Keep the bottle upright to avoid leaks. Common mistake: leaving the cap loose or storing in a hot area, which shortens the syrup's life. Write the date you opened the bottle on the label as a reference.
Product facts
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Kodak HC-110 Developer - 1L (BEST BEFORE 12/25): Kodak HC-110 Developer is a highly concentrated liquid intended for use with a variety of black-and-white films. This concentration means you use very small volumes per roll, so accurate measurement is essential for consistent results.
Kodak HC-110 Developer - 1L (BEST BEFORE 12/25)