FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets – Premium Quality RC Paper

Introduction

When it comes to professional-grade black-and-white photo papers, FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets stands out as a trusted favorite among darkroom photographers. Known for its premium resin-coated (RC) surface, neutral image tone, and variable contrast, this paper ensures every print displays remarkable detail, excellent tonal range, and exceptional stability. Manufactured by FOMA Bohemia, one of Europe’s oldest photographic material producers, it combines traditional craftsmanship with modern coating technology for consistent and reliable performance.

Whether you’re a darkroom enthusiast, professional printer, or photography student, FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets offers superb quality that meets the expectations of both beginners and experts in analog printing.

Key Features of FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets

1. Variable Contrast Capability

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets is a variable contrast black-and-white photo paper, meaning its contrast level can be easily controlled during the printing process using multigrade filters. This flexibility allows photographers to achieve a soft or hard tonal range depending on their creative intent. With a contrast range equivalent to grades 00 to 5, it’s an ideal paper for all types of negatives and artistic visions.

2. Resin-Coated (RC) Surface

This paper features a resin-coated base that provides shorter washing and drying times compared to traditional fiber-based papers. The RC surface ensures a smooth, glossy finish that enhances image depth, making it suitable for exhibition-quality prints and high-volume printing tasks.

3. Neutral Image Tone

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets produces a neutral black-and-white tone—neither too warm nor too cold. This makes it versatile for various printing styles, from portraits to landscapes, where maintaining natural gray tones is crucial. It also responds beautifully to toning processes, such as selenium or sepia toning, allowing creative photographers to enhance image depth and archival stability.

4. Excellent Image Stability

Thanks to FOMA’s proprietary emulsion formula, FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets delivers excellent image stability and sharpness. The emulsion coating ensures smooth gradation between shadows, midtones, and highlights, while maintaining fine detail and high resolution in every print.

5. Consistent Performance Across Developers

This paper is compatible with a wide range of B&W paper developers, including popular choices like FOMA LQN, Ilford Multigrade, and Kodak Dektol. It delivers consistent results across different developing systems, ensuring predictable tonal output and easy control during darkroom printing sessions.

Why Choose FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets?

If you’re looking for a paper that balances quality, consistency, and affordability, FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets is an excellent choice. Its premium RC base ensures fast drying, minimal curling, and easy handling—perfect for photographers who value efficiency without compromising image quality.

Additionally, its versatility in contrast control and compatibility with all enlarger systems make it one of the most reliable RC papers in modern analog printing.

Key benefits:

• Premium neutral tone with deep blacks and clean whites
• Compatible with all variable contrast filter systems
• Archival-quality resin-coated base
• Ideal for both educational and professional darkrooms
• Easy to process and wash
• Excellent for portrait, landscape, and fine art photography

Technical Specifications

Usage Tips for Best Results

1. Use with Multigrade Filters:
   For maximum tonal control, use FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets with a multigrade filter system (e.g., Ilford Multigrade filters).
   👉 Learn more about multigrade printing techniques

2. Development Recommendations:
   Develop using FOMA LQN or any high-quality paper developer for 90–120 seconds at 20°C (68°F). Proper development time ensures consistent tonal quality and detail.

3. Fixing and Washing:
   Fix for 60 seconds using a rapid fixer like FOMA Fomafix or Ilford Rapid Fixer, followed by a short wash cycle (2–3 minutes). The RC coating allows for quick drying and reduced processing time.

4. Archival Toning:
   For enhanced durability, use selenium toner to increase print longevity and deepen blacks.
   👉 Explore Kodak Selenium Toner options.

Perfect Applications for FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets

• Fine Art Prints: Achieve gallery-quality images with rich contrast and smooth gradation.

• Portrait Photography: Capture expressive skin tones and subtle tonal transitions.

• Educational Use: Excellent for students learning darkroom printing due to its forgiving exposure latitude.

• Commercial Use: Great for photographers producing proofs or high-volume prints.

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets adapts easily to any darkroom workflow, providing reliable, repeatable outcomes every time.

About FOMA Bohemia

Founded in 1921 in the Czech Republic, FOMA Bohemia has a century-long legacy in manufacturing analog photographic materials, including films, papers, and chemicals. Their FOMASPEED line is celebrated globally for its quality, affordability, and dedication to traditional darkroom processes.
👉 Visit FOMA Bohemia’s official website.

Some Useful Links (Onestopphoto.in)

For best darkroom results, pair FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets with these complementary products available on Onestopphoto.in:

• FOMA LQN Developer
• FOMA Fomafix – 1L Rapid Fixer
•  Multigrade Filter Set
• Paterson Universal Developing Tank
• Kaiser Darkroom Safe Light

These accessories ensure optimal darkroom efficiency and consistent print quality.

Conclusion

The FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets remains a benchmark in black-and-white RC photo papers, blending flexibility, consistency, and affordability. Its variable contrast feature, neutral tone, and archival quality make it ideal for both professionals and students exploring the timeless art of analog photography. Whether you’re printing portraits, fine art, or landscapes, this paper guarantees impressive results with minimal effort.

If you value precision, quality, and reliability, then FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets deserves a place in your darkroom workflow.

Top 6 FAQs About FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets

Q1: What is the difference between FOMASPEED VAR 313 and VAR 312?
A: The FOMASPEED VAR 313 has a glossy surface, while VAR 312 offers a matte finish. Both share the same emulsion and image tone characteristics.

Q2: Can I use FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets with any enlarger?
A: Yes, it’s compatible with all enlargers and filter systems designed for variable contrast papers.

Q3: Is this paper suitable for beginners?
A: Absolutely. Its forgiving exposure latitude and fast processing make it ideal for learning darkroom printing.

Q4: How should I store the paper?
A: Keep the box sealed in a cool, dry, and light-proof place. Avoid humidity to prevent fogging.

Q5: What toner works best with FOMASPEED VAR 313 8×10” 100 Sheets?
A: Selenium toner enhances deep blacks and increases print permanence, while sepia toners provide a warm vintage tone.

Q6: Is FOMASPEED VAR 313 archival quality?
A: Yes, when properly processed and stored, the RC paper ensures long-term image stability and archival performance.