FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper 9.5×12” – Pro Quality 10 Sheets

FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper 9.5×12” – Pro Quality 10 Sheets

FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper is a high-quality black and white resin-coated photographic paper designed for photographers who value consistency, tonal control, and efficiency in the darkroom. Manufactured by Foma Bohemia, a respected European brand with decades of expertise in analog photographic materials, this paper is ideal for both learning and professional printing workflows.

With its variable contrast (multigrade) emulsion, smooth velvet surface, and fast RC base, FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper delivers excellent image quality while remaining easy to process. The 9.5×12 inch (24×30.5 cm) size and 10-sheet pack make it perfect for test prints, portfolio images, and controlled darkroom sessions.

What Is FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper?

FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper is a black and white variable contrast photographic paper with a resin-coated (RC) base and a velvet/matte surface finish. It is designed for use with enlargers and responds accurately to standard multigrade filters, allowing photographers to control contrast from soft to hard grades without changing paper types.

The RC base ensures quick processing, faster drying, and easy handling, making it especially suitable for photographers who want reliable results without long wash times. This makes FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper an excellent choice for educational darkrooms, home setups, and high-volume printing environments.

Key Features of FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper

• Black & white variable contrast (multigrade) RC paper
• Velvet / matte surface for reduced glare and soft tonal rendering
• Resin-coated base for fast processing and drying
• Excellent tonal range and contrast control
• Compatible with all standard B&W paper developers
• Sheet size: 9.5×12 inches (24×30.5 cm)
• Pack contains 10 sheets
• Ideal for enlargements, test prints, and scanning

Why Choose FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper?

1. Variable Contrast Control

One of the strongest advantages of this RC Paper is its wide contrast response. By using multigrade filters (grades 00–5), photographers can fine-tune contrast without switching papers. This allows precise creative control over highlights, midtones, and shadows.

2. Smooth Velvet Finish

The velvet/matte surface reduces reflections and fingerprints, making prints easier to view under strong lighting. This surface is especially appreciated for portraits, documentary photography, architectural work, and prints intended for scanning or framing without glass glare.

3. Fast RC Processing

Compared to fiber-based papers, FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper requires significantly shorter washing and drying times. Prints dry flat, making them easy to handle, store, and present—perfect for photographers who value efficiency.

4. Consistent, Reliable Results

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced printer, FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper provides repeatable and predictable results. This consistency is why it is widely used in photography schools and professional labs.

Darkroom Processing Recommendations

FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper works well with all standard black and white paper chemistry.

Recommended Workflow:

• Developer: Fomadon P, Ilford Multigrade Developer, Adox Neutol
• Stop Bath: Standard acetic acid stop bath
• Fixer: FOMA Fix P or Ilford Rapid Fixer
• Wash Time: 2–3 minutes (RC paper)
• Drying: Air dry or squeegee dry

For optimal results, always use fresh chemicals and consistent temperatures.

Creative Applications

FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper is suitable for a wide range of photographic styles:

• Portrait photography with soft tonal transitions
• Architectural and urban photography with controlled contrast
• Still life and product photography
• Contact sheets and proof prints
• Student and teaching darkrooms
• Exhibition test prints before final fiber printing

The paper’s surface and tonal response allow photographers to achieve both subtle and bold visual interpretations.

Comparison With Other Papers

Compared to fiber-based baryta papers, FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper offers faster workflow and easier handling, though with slightly less depth than baryta papers. Compared to glossy RC papers, the velvet finish of this RC Paper provides a softer, more refined look with minimal reflections. If you want speed, affordability, and flexibility, this RC Paper is a smart choice.

Useful Links

• Explore Darkroom Chemicals for developers and fixers
• View Multigrade Filter Sets for contrast control
• Browse Darkroom Equipment & Enlargers
• Shop all types Photo Papers Collection

External Resources

• Foma Bohemia Official Website – Technical data sheets and product guidance
• Ilford Photo Learning Zone – Darkroom printing tutorials
• Photrio Community Forum – Darkroom tips and user experiences

Storage & Handling Tips

• Store FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper in a cool, dry place
• Avoid humidity and temperature fluctuations
• Handle with clean, dry hands
• Use appropriate safelight for RC papers

Proper storage ensures consistent results and long shelf life.

Who Should Use FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper?

• Photography students learning darkroom techniques
• Home darkroom photographers
• Educators and institutions
• Professional photographers creating test or final RC prints
• Anyone seeking reliable, affordable B&W printing paper

Final Thoughts

FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper is a dependable and versatile choice for black and white darkroom printing. Its variable contrast control, smooth velvet surface, and fast RC processing make it suitable for both creative exploration and professional use. If you want consistent results, efficient workflow, and excellent tonal quality in a compact 10-sheet pack, this RC Paper is an excellent addition to your darkroom.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. What type of photographic paper is FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper?
FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper is a black & white resin-coated (RC) photographic paper with variable contrast, designed for enlarger-based darkroom printing.

Q2. What finish does FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper have?
This paper features a velvet (semi-matt) finish, which reduces reflections while maintaining excellent detail, contrast, and tonal smoothness.

Q3. Is FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper compatible with multigrade filters?
Yes, FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper fully supports multigrade and variable contrast filters (grades 00–5), allowing precise contrast control during printing.

Q4. What size and quantity does this pack include?
The pack contains 10 sheets of 9.5×12 inch (24×30.5 cm) photographic paper, ideal for medium-format enlargements and exhibition prints.

Q5. Which developers work best with FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper?
It works well with standard black & white paper developers such as Ilford Multigrade Developer, Fomadon P, ADOX Neutol, and similar RC-compatible chemistry.

Q6. Is this paper suitable for beginners?
Yes, the RC base allows quick processing, fast drying, and easy handling, making FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper suitable for both beginners and experienced darkroom users.

Q7. Can prints made on FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper be toned?
Yes, prints can be toned using selenium or sepia toners to enhance image tone and improve archival stability.

Q8. How should unused paper be stored?
Store FOMASPEED VAR 313 RC Paper in a cool, dry place, away from heat, moisture, and light, preferably in its original packaging to maintain quality.