Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M Superior Multigrade RC Paper 50.8×61cm (50)

Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M Superior Multigrade RC Paper (50)

The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M Superior Multigrade RC Paper is a professional-grade black and white photographic paper designed for photographers who demand consistent results, smooth tonal transitions, and reliable darkroom performance. With its large 20×24 inch (50.8×61 cm) format and resin-coated pearl surface, this paper is ideal for exhibition prints, portfolio work, and high-quality enlargements.

Ilford has been a trusted name in black and white photography for more than 140 years, and the MG4RC series represents one of its most widely used multigrade RC paper ranges. The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M variant offers the perfect balance between professional image quality and practical darkroom efficiency.

Designed for Professional Darkroom Printing

The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M uses advanced variable contrast (VC) emulsion technology. This allows photographers to control image contrast easily by using multigrade filters or a colour enlarger head. Whether you are working with flat negatives or high-contrast scenes, this paper adapts smoothly to your printing needs. The Multigrade system eliminates the need to store multiple paper grades. Instead, one paper handles a full contrast range from soft (grade 00) to hard (grade 5), making darkroom workflow faster and more flexible.

Large 20×24 Inch Format for Impactful Prints

The 20×24 inch size is particularly popular among fine-art photographers, exhibition printers, and advanced darkroom users. The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M format allows you to create large, visually impactful prints that retain detail, sharpness, and tonal balance.

This size is ideal for:

• Gallery and exhibition prints
• Portfolio presentation
• Studio display work
• Large-format enlargements from medium and large format negatives

Despite its large size, the resin-coated base keeps handling simple and manageable during processing.

Resin-Coated (RC) Convenience

One of the key advantages of the Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M is its RC (resin-coated) base. RC papers are designed for efficiency without compromising print quality.

Benefits of RC paper include:

• Faster processing times
• Shorter washing requirements
• Quick and flat drying
• Reduced chemical and water usage

This makes the paper ideal not only for professionals but also for educational institutions, shared darkrooms, and photographers who print frequently.

Pearl Surface for Balanced Visual Appeal

The MG4RC 44M features a pearl surface, which sits between glossy and matte finishes. This surface reduces unwanted reflections while maintaining excellent image depth and contrast.

The pearl finish is especially suitable for:

• Display under mixed lighting
• Framed prints behind glass
• Detailed images where glare control matters

Prints made on Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M show rich blacks, clean highlights, and smooth mid-tones, making them visually pleasing in both controlled and ambient lighting conditions.

Tonal Range and Image Quality

Ilford’s fourth-generation Multigrade emulsion ensures outstanding tonal reproduction. The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M delivers:

• Deep, neutral blacks
• Clean whites without muddy highlights
• Smooth tonal gradation in mid-tones
• Excellent edge sharpness

This makes the paper suitable for a wide range of photographic styles, including portraits, landscapes, architecture, documentary work, and fine-art photography.

Compatibility with Developers and Chemicals

The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M is fully compatible with standard black and white paper developers. For best results, Ilford recommends:

• Ilford Multigrade Developer
• Ilford PQ Universal
• Ilford Bromophen

The paper responds predictably to changes in development time and filtration, allowing experienced printers to fine-tune contrast and density with confidence.

Archival Performance and Print Stability

When processed correctly—using fresh chemicals, proper fixing, and adequate washing—prints made on Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M offer excellent image stability. While RC papers are not identical to fibre-based papers in archival handling, modern Ilford RC papers provide long-lasting prints suitable for display and long-term storage. Proper storage in archival sleeves and controlled environments further enhances print longevity.

Who Should Choose Ilford MG4RC 44M?

The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M is ideal for:

• Professional photographers
• Fine-art printers
• Photography schools and universities
• Advanced darkroom enthusiasts
• Exhibition and gallery print makers

Its combination of large size, reliable contrast control, and efficient processing makes it a practical yet high-quality choice.

Useful Links

• Ilford Multigrade Developer for RC Papers
• Ilford Rapid Fixer – Black & White Chemistry
• Explore Our All Darkroom Equipment
• Explore all Photographic Paper

Learn More (Authoritative Resources)

These trusted Ilford resources help users understand correct paper usage and darkroom techniques:

• Preparing to Print – Ilford Darkroom Guide (Beginner Intro & Paper Advice)
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com/preparing-to-print/
  This page explains essential darkroom setup and paper choice, including multigrade RC suggestions for beginners and advanced printers.
• Ilford Technical PDF – MULTIGRADE RC Papers Overview
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/MULTIGRADE-IV-RC-Papers-060619.pdf:- Official downloadable paper technical info from Ilford.

• Ilford Paper Technical Downloads (Multigrade RC Technical PDFs)
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com/technical-downloads
  This official Ilford hub contains technical information about Multigrade RC papers and other support documents.

Conclusion

The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M Superior Multigrade RC Paper is a dependable, high-quality solution for photographers who want large-format black and white prints without the complexity of fibre-based processing. With its pearl surface, wide contrast control, and efficient RC handling, it delivers professional results consistently. Whether you are producing exhibition prints or refining your darkroom workflow, this paper offers reliability, quality, and creative flexibility.

FAQs – Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M

1. Is Ilford MG4RC 44M suitable for beginners?

Yes. Although it is a professional paper, the RC base and predictable contrast response make it easy to use for learners as well.

2. Can I use this paper with a colour enlarger?

Yes. The Ilford 20×24 inch MG4RC 44M works perfectly with colour enlargers using filtration to control contrast.

3. What finish does MG4RC 44M have?

It has a pearl surface, which reduces glare while maintaining strong contrast and detail.

4. How long does RC paper take to dry?

RC paper typically dries flat within 30–60 minutes under normal darkroom conditions.

5. Is this paper suitable for exhibition prints?

Yes. The large 20×24 inch size and pearl finish make it ideal for exhibition and display prints.

6. Which developer is best for this paper?

Ilford Multigrade Developer and PQ Universal are both excellent choices.

7. Can this paper be toned?

Yes. Selenium and other black and white toners can be used, though toning effects are subtler than on fibre paper.

8. How many sheets are included?

Each pack contains 50 sheets of 20×24 inch (50.8×61 cm) paper.