FOMA Universal Developer – Powerful B&W Film & Paper Solution (5L)

Introduction

The FOMA Universal Developer is an essential darkroom chemical designed for high-quality development of black and white photographic materials. Whether you’re developing negatives or prints, this versatile 5-liter concentrate provides consistent, reliable, and fine-grain results. Suitable for both beginners and professionals, FOMA Universal Developer is a go-to choice for anyone seeking high performance in analog photography.

 What is FOMA Universal Developer?

FOMA Universal Developer is a liquid photographic developer used for processing black and white positive and negative materials, including films and papers. Manufactured by Foma Bohemia Ltd., a trusted Czech brand with decades of darkroom chemistry expertise, this developer is designed to handle:

• B&W negative films (35mm, 120, sheet film)
• B&W photographic papers (RC & fiber-based)

As the name suggests, it is “universal” — ideal for labs, schools, hobbyists, and fine-art photographers looking to streamline their workflow with a single reliable developer.

 Key Features of FOMA Universal Developer

• ✅ Powerful formula suitable for both films and papers
• ✅ Makes up to 5 liters of working solution from concentrate
• ✅ Excellent contrast control for both negatives and prints
• ✅ Produces fine grain and rich tonal gradation
• ✅ Works with all major B&W films (Foma, Ilford, Kodak, Kentmere, etc.)
• ✅ Ideal for manual tray or tank processing
• ✅ Long shelf life when stored properly

With the FOMA Universal Developer, you get consistent development, reduced fogging, and a clean working solution that suits both amateurs and experienced darkroom users.

 How to Use FOMA Universal Developer

Dilution:

• Standard dilution is 1+9 for general-purpose use.
• For softer contrast: use 1+14.
• For higher contrast: use 1+7.

Development Time:

• Film: Typically 6–10 minutes at 20°C depending on film brand/type.
• Paper: 60–90 seconds in tray processing at 20°C.

Tip: Always perform test strips and check manufacturer datasheets for ideal timings. Agitate gently for uniform results.

 Recommended Films & Papers

FOMA Universal Developer is compatible with:

B&W Films:

• Fomapan 100 / 200 / 400
• Ilford HP5 Plus, FP4 Plus
• Kodak Tri-X, T-Max
• Kentmere 100 / 400

B&W Papers:

• Foma Variant 111 & 112
• Ilford Multigrade RC/FB
• ADOX MCC 110
• Kentmere VC Select

This universal developer gives neutral tones on most papers, with slight warm or cool shifts depending on processing time and dilution.

 How It Compares to Other Developers

Compared to other developers like Kodak D-76, Ilford ID-11, or Fomadon LQR, FOMA Universal Developer offers excellent tonal balance, easier mixing, and more flexibility in processing both films and papers. It is less aggressive, allowing for greater control and reduced risk of overdevelopment. Ideal for those wanting a cleaner workflow with fewer chemicals.

 Tips for Best Results

• Always use distilled water for mixing the working solution.
• Maintain a consistent temperature (20°C) throughout development.
• Pre-soak your film for 1 minute for even development.
• Gently agitate every 30 seconds to prevent unevenness.
• Use fresh fixer and stop bath for optimal archival quality.

 Ideal for Education and Labs

FOMA Universal Developer is highly recommended for photography schools, workshops, and darkroom labs. Its universal application reduces the number of chemicals required, simplifies training, and saves money. Students can learn film and paper processing with a single, safe, and reliable developer.

 Scanning Negatives After Development

Negatives developed in FOMA Universal Developer are known for their excellent density and tonal range, making them perfect for scanning with flatbed scanners like Epson V600, V850, or DSLR scanning rigs. The resulting digital files are clean, with minimal retouching required.

 Safety & Storage

• Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight
• Keep tightly sealed after opening
• Use gloves and eye protection when handling
• Dispose of chemicals as per local waste guidelines

Shelf Life: Unopened concentrate: up to 2 years. Once opened: up to 6 months if stored properly.

 Internal Product Links

Explore related B&W darkroom products:

• FOMA Fix P U1 Fixer – Powder
• All Film Paper Chemistry Products
• All Photographic Papers Category
• All Film Chemistry Products

 Explore More from Trusted Sources

For official specifications and darkroom tips:

• Foma Bohemia Official Website –
• Ilford Photo – Darkroom Guides –
• Kodak Professional Film Resources –

 Final Thoughts

The FOMA Universal Developer offers a smart, cost-effective, and highly flexible solution for photographers who demand excellent image quality from both films and papers. With its powerful processing capabilities, ease of use, and compatibility with leading B&W materials, it deserves a permanent place in your darkroom.

Whether you’re developing negatives for scanning or fine art prints for exhibition, the FOMA Universal Developer ensures reliable results every time. It’s ideal for photographers who value control, tonal accuracy, and archival permanence.

Upgrade your workflow today with this trusted, all-in-one developer from FOMA and experience the satisfaction of crafting each image with precision.