Darkroom printing is a rewarding process, but it can also be frustrating when things don't go as planned. From density issues to dust spots, several common mistakes can plague the printing process. This guide will help you troubleshoot and fix these common darkroom printing problems, so you can achieve the beautiful prints you envision.

1. Density Problems (Too Dark or Too Light):

• Problem: Prints are coming out too dark or too light.
• Solution: This is usually related to exposure time.
  • Too Dark: Decrease the exposure time on the enlarger. Make test strips in small increments to find the sweet spot.
  • Too Light: Increase the exposure time. Again, use test strips to dial in the correct exposure. Remember, small changes in exposure can make a big difference in the final print.

2. Contrast Issues (Too Much or Too Little):

• Problem: Prints lack contrast (too gray overall) or have too much contrast (blacks are too black, whites are too white, and little in between).
• Solution: Contrast is controlled by the grade of your printing paper (or variable contrast filters if using multigrade paper).
  • Too Little Contrast: Use a higher contrast grade paper (or filter).
  • Too Much Contrast: Use a lower contrast grade paper (or filter). Multigrade filters offer finer control. Consider also your developing time.

3. Uneven Density:

• Problem: One part of the print is darker or lighter than the rest.
• Solution: This can be caused by several factors:
  • Uneven Illumination: Check your enlarger's light source for proper alignment and cleanliness.
  • Vignetting: Ensure the lens isn't being obstructed. Use the correct lens hood.
  • Paper Not Flat: Make sure the printing paper is lying flat on the easel.

4. Dust Spots and Scratches:

• Problem: Small white or black spots appear on the print.
• Solution: Dust is the enemy!
  • Cleanliness is Key: Keep your darkroom as clean as possible. Use a tack cloth or compressed air to remove dust from negatives, enlarger, and printing paper.
  • Negative Handling: Handle negatives with care to avoid scratches. Use cotton gloves.
  • Retouching: Small dust spots can be carefully retouched on the print using a spotting brush and retouching dyes.

5. Focus Issues:

• Problem: The print is blurry.
• Solution:
  • Enlarger Focus: Double-check the focus of your enlarger. Use a focusing magnifier for precision.
  • Negative Flatness: Ensure the negative is flat in the negative carrier.

6. Chemical Stains:

• Problem: Brown or other colored stains appear on the print.
• Solution:
  • Chemical Contamination: Use separate trays and tongs for each chemical. Ensure chemicals are fresh and properly diluted.
  • Insufficient Washing: Properly wash your prints to remove all residual chemicals.

7. Reticulation:

• Problem: A network of fine lines or a "cracked" appearance on the print.
• Solution: This is often caused by rapid temperature changes during processing. Ensure your chemicals and wash water are at a consistent temperature.

8. Fogging:

• Problem: The print has an overall gray or muddy appearance, even in the highlights.
• Solution: Fogging can be caused by several factors:
  • Light Leaks: Check your darkroom for light leaks.
  • Expired Paper: Use fresh printing paper.
  • Improper Storage: Store paper in a cool, dry place.
  • Overdevelopment: Reduce development time.

9. Poor Print Quality from a "Good" Negative:

• Problem: The negative looks good, but the print is lacking.
• Solution: Consider the entire printing process. Re-evaluate your exposure, contrast, and development. Sometimes a slight adjustment in one area can make a big difference. A "good" negative may require some "burning" or "dodging" to achieve the desired result.

10. Inconsistent Results:

• Problem: Prints from the same negative vary in quality.
• Solution: Consistency is crucial in the darkroom. Pay close attention to every step of the process, from exposure and development to washing and drying. Keep detailed notes of your settings for each negative.

Darkroom Printing requires patience and practice. Don't get discouraged by mistakes. Each error is a learning opportunity. By understanding the common problems and their solutions, you'll be well on your way to creating beautiful and satisfying prints. Keep a notebook handy to record your exposures, paper grades, and development times. This will help you reproduce successful prints and learn from your mistakes