We have been using Pyro based film developers for some time now. So, what is it about a Pyro negative that makes it so desirable? I have yet to completely understand the desirability of the Pyro negative, but I do know there is a depth that just isn’t there with other more popular film developers.
We used Kodak HC110 for years. We even had our own dilution, that we used based on years of experience with the developer. But once persuaded to try Pyro, the HC110 negatives soon became undesirable. I guess the question is, if you have tried one of the Pyro formulas, did anyone else find that little something extra? Or is it just the mystique of using one of the oldest known developers? There has to be something. I can see it in the negative and the print.
There is one thing I can say beyond a doubt that I share with Ansel Adams. We share the same birthday, though he was near five decades before me. My only real regret when I think of Ansel is that I never met the man. But, every year I salute his birthday, maybe only because it is one thing we share. Happy Birthday Ansel!
