FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper – 7×9.5”, Premium Quality, 10 Sheets

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper – 7×9.5”, Premium Quality, 10 Sheets

Introduction:

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper is a high-quality black and white resin-coated photographic paper designed for photographers who value consistency, speed, and creative control in the darkroom. Manufactured by Foma Bohemia, a respected European brand with over a century of photographic expertise, this paper is ideal for both beginners and experienced darkroom printers.

With its variable contrast (multigrade) emulsion, smooth surface, and fast processing characteristics, FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper is perfectly suited for contact prints, test strips, small enlargements, and final exhibition prints. The compact 7×9.5 inch (17.8×24 cm) size and 10-sheet pack make it a practical choice for experimentation, education, and everyday darkroom workflows.

What Is FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper?

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper is a resin-coated (RC) variable contrast black & white photographic paper optimized for enlarger printing. Unlike fixed-grade papers, it allows photographers to control image contrast using standard multigrade filters (grades 00–5). The RC base ensures faster washing and drying compared to fiber-based papers, making this RC Paper ideal for photographers who want efficient processing without compromising print quality.

Key Features of FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper

• Variable contrast (multigrade) black & white paper
• Resin-coated base for quick processing and drying
• Smooth surface for clean, detailed prints
• Excellent tonal separation with deep blacks
• Consistent contrast response across grades 00–5
• Compact 7×9.5” size for test prints and small enlargements
• Pack of 10 sheets – ideal for practice and controlled printing

Why Choose FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper?

1. Variable Contrast Control

One of the strongest advantages of FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper is its multigrade emulsion. By using contrast filters, you can fine-tune highlights, midtones, and shadows without switching paper types. This flexibility is essential for photographers who print negatives with varying densities.

2. Fast and Efficient Darkroom Workflow

Thanks to its resin-coated base, this RC Paper requires significantly less washing time than fiber papers. Prints dry flat and quickly, allowing you to evaluate results almost immediately—perfect for learning environments and production workflows.

3. Consistent and Predictable Results

Foma Bohemia is known for quality control, and FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper delivers repeatable results across batches. This consistency is crucial when printing series, portfolios, or exhibition sets.

Tonal Performance and Image Quality

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper produces:

• Rich, deep blacks
• Clean whites with controlled highlight detail
• Smooth midtone transitions
• Strong edge definition and sharpness

The paper responds beautifully to both soft and high-contrast negatives, making it suitable for portraits, landscapes, architecture, and documentary photography.

Ideal Applications

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper is commonly used for:

• Test prints and contact sheets
• Small-format enlargements
• Photography education and workshops
• Everyday darkroom printing
• Portfolio proofing
• Quick turnaround projects

The 10-sheet pack is especially useful when you want to test exposure, contrast, and chemistry before committing to larger paper boxes.

Recommended Darkroom Chemistry

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper works well with most standard black & white paper developers.

Recommended developers:

• Ilford Multigrade Developer
• Fomadon P
• ADOX Neutol Liquid NE

Processing steps:

1. Develop: 60–120 seconds (depending on developer dilution)
2. Stop bath: 30 seconds
3. Fix: 60–120 seconds
4. Wash: 2–3 minutes (RC paper)

Optional toning with selenium or sepia can enhance image permanence and tonal depth.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh chemistry for clean whites
• Keep contrast filters clean for accurate grading
• Store FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper in a cool, dry place
• Use appropriate safelight conditions for RC papers
• Handle with clean, dry hands to avoid marks

Comparison with Other Papers

When compared to similar RC papers:

• FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper vs Fiber Paper: Faster processing, easier handling
• Vs Fomaspeed Fixed Grade: More creative control
• Vs Ilford RC Papers: Comparable quality at a more accessible price point

If you require quick results and flexibility, this RC Paper is an excellent choice.

Useful Links (Recommended)

• Darkroom Chemicals Collection
• Explore Multigrade Filter Sets
• Enlargers & Darkroom Equipment
• Archival Photo Storage Sleeves

Learn More

• Foma Bohemia Official Website – Technical data sheets
• Ilford Photo Darkroom Learning Hub
• Photrio Darkroom Community Forums

Who Should Use FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper?

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper is ideal for:

• Photography students
• Home darkroom enthusiasts
• Educators and workshops
• Analog photographers testing negatives
• Anyone seeking reliable RC paper with creative flexibility

Final Thoughts

FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper combines affordability, quality, and ease of use in a compact 7×9.5” format. Its variable contrast emulsion, fast RC base, and dependable tonal performance make it a smart choice for both learning and everyday printing. Whether you’re refining exposure, experimenting with contrast, or producing small final prints, This RC Paper delivers consistent, professional-looking results every time.

If you want a trusted multigrade RC paper that performs reliably in any darkroom, this RC Paper deserves a place in your workflow.

 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What type of photo paper is FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper?
This RC Paper is a black and white variable contrast (multigrade) resin-coated photographic paper designed for darkroom enlarging.

Q2: Is FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper suitable for beginners?
Yes, its resin-coated base allows quick processing and fast drying, making it ideal for beginners, students, and home darkrooms.

Q3: What finish does FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper have?
This paper features a smooth matte finish, which reduces reflections and gives prints a soft, professional appearance.

Q4: Can I use multigrade filters with FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper?
Yes, it works perfectly with standard multigrade filters (grades 00–5) to control image contrast during printing.

Q5: Which developers are recommended for this paper?
It is compatible with most standard B&W paper developers such as Ilford Multigrade Developer, Fomadon P, and Adox Neutol.

Q6: Is FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper suitable for contact sheets?
Yes, its size and fast processing make it excellent for contact sheets, test prints, and small final enlargements.

Q7: Does RC paper offer archival quality?
Resin-coated paper provides good longevity for everyday prints. For maximum archival permanence, fiber-based papers are preferred.

Q8: How should FOMASPEED VAR 312 RC Paper be stored?
Store it in a cool, dry place away from light and humidity to maintain consistent printing quality.