Developing Tray High Quality (White) Size for Developing Photo Papers upto 12”x16”

This Developing Tray is constructed from hard, durable, chemical-resistant plastic and is available in three colors to help differentiate between chemicals under safelight conditions. Designed to fit all popular print sizes, this single white tray measures 12 x 16″ (30.5 x 40.6 cm) and accommodates prints up to 11 x 14″. The tray features a specially designed base that ensures maximum economy of solution and easy print removal, along with a convenient pouring lip for drip-free emptying. These trays are available individually or in sets of three, with one tray of each color.

How to Uses 

A Developing Tray is used in darkroom photography to process photographic prints. It holds various chemical solutions such as developer, stop bath, and fixer, which are essential for developing exposed photo paper. During the developing process, the photo paper is placed in these trays one after the other. Each tray allows the paper to react with a specific chemical for a set amount of time. This step-by-step chemical treatment helps in turning the latent image on the exposed paper into a visible and permanent photograph.

How to Use a photo developing tray

To use a photo developing tray, pour the required chemical solution into it—starting with the developer. Submerge the exposed photo paper in the tray and gently agitate it to ensure even coverage. After the recommended time, transfer the paper to the next tray (stop bath), and then to the fixer tray. Once the process is complete, rinse the print with clean water and allow it to dry. Each chemical should be used in a separate tray to avoid contamination.

Useful Links 

• Related Darkroom Trays
  https://onestopphoto.in/product/tray-high-quality-white-size-for-developing-photo-papers-upto-12×16-set-of-3/

• Stop Bath for Darkroom Printing
  https://onestopphoto.in/product-category/darkroom-chemistry/stop-bath/

• Film & Photo Paper Fixer
  https://onestopphoto.in/product-category/darkroom-chemistry/fixer/

• Black & White Photo Papers
  https://onestopphoto.in/product-category/photo-paper/bw-paper/

Useful Links

• Darkroom Printing Process – Wikipedia
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darkroom

• Photographic Paper – Understanding How It Works
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photographic_paper

• Film Developing Process (Silver-Based Photography)
  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photographic_processing

Why This Tray is Essential for Every Darkroom

Whether you’re printing black & white photographs at home or working in a professional lab, this developing tray ensures consistent, safe, and clean results. Its size, build quality, and user-friendly design make it an excellent choice for photographers who value precision and efficiency. The white color is especially helpful for viewing chemical reactions clearly under safelight, enhancing accuracy during development.

In addition to developing prints, a photo developing tray has several other uses in the darkroom. It can act as a print washing tray, rinse prints after fixing, or be used for mixing small batches of chemicals. The tray is also ideal for toning prints or applying special effects. For large-format photography, it can be used for sheet film development. It helps organize workflow with color coding and can store darkroom tools safely. The tray is also a valuable resource in photography workshops and can be repurposed by artists for creative processes like paper marbling or dye soaking.

This high-quality white developing tray is perfect for photo papers up to 12×16 inches. It’s a must-have for any darkroom setup. Learn more about darkroom equipment and the photo development process on Wikipedia.

Available Options

This listing includes one white tray. However, trays are also available in sets of three (white, red, and grey) to help photographers organize their workflow more effectively. Our New Product- https://onestopphoto.in/product/tray-high-quality-white-size-for-developing-photo-papers-upto-12×16-set-of-3/

FAQ SECTION

1. What is the main purpose of a photo developing tray?

A photo developing tray is used to hold darkroom chemicals such as developer, stop bath, and fixer. It allows even chemical coverage on the exposed photo paper to develop a clean and consistent print.

2. Can I use the same tray for all chemicals?

No. Each chemical must be kept in a separate tray to avoid contamination. That’s why trays are available in different colors—so photographers can easily distinguish between developer, stop bath, and fixer.

3. What print sizes can this developing tray handle?

This high-quality tray supports prints up to 11×14 inches and is designed to fit within a 12×16-inch layout, making it perfect for common darkroom paper sizes.

4. Is the tray chemical-resistant and durable?

Yes. It is made from hard, chemical-resistant plastic, ensuring long-lasting performance even with frequent use of strong darkroom chemicals.

5. What are the benefits of using a white tray?

A white tray improves visibility under a safelight, making it easier to monitor the development process and see tonal changes clearly while adjusting print exposure or development time.

6. Can this tray be used for other darkroom tasks?

Absolutely. Besides developing, it can be used for washing prints, toning, chemical mixing, sheet film development, or even creative processes like marbling and dye soaking.

Conclusion

The high-quality 12×16″ white developing tray is an essential tool for any darkroom setup, whether you are a beginner learning the basics of print development or a professional photographer working with precision. Its durable, chemical-resistant plastic construction, smooth base design, and easy-pour lip ensure clean, consistent, and efficient workflow during every print session. The white color enhances visibility under safelight, helping you monitor development accurately and avoid mistakes.

With multiple applications—from developing prints to washing, toning, and mixing chemicals—this tray remains one of the most reliable and versatile darkroom accessories. Whether used individually or as part of a three-tray color-coded system, it ensures a seamless and organized print-making experience.

If you’re building or upgrading your darkroom, this developing tray is a must-have for achieving professional-quality results every time.