Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml – Fine Grain Developer for Film

Introduction

The Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is a high-quality liquid film developer, specially formulated to deliver fine grain, sharp detail, and rich tonality in black and white photography. Designed by Ilford, one of the world’s most respected names in photographic chemistry, this developer is ideal for photographers who demand consistent results with both 35mm and medium format films. Whether you’re developing at home or in a professional darkroom, the Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml offers an efficient and user-friendly solution for processing all traditional black and white films.

Why Choose Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml?

The Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is renowned for its fine grain rendering and balanced contrast, making it a favorite among photographers who want detail-rich negatives with smooth tonal transitions. Its liquid concentrate form makes mixing easy and eliminates the need for powder preparation, ensuring convenience for every level of user.

Key benefits of using Ilfosol 500ml:

• Fine grain developer – ideal for sharp, clean negatives
• Liquid concentrate – easy to mix and measure
• Excellent image detail with smooth tonal range
• Reliable performance with all B&W films
• Cost-effective for small to medium volume processing

Features and Specifications

• Volume: 500ml liquid concentrate
• Dilution Options: 1+9 (standard) or 1+14 (economy)
• Film Compatibility: Works with all B&W films, including Ilford HP5 Plus, Delta 100, Kentmere 400, and more
• Processing Method: Suitable for tank, tray, or rotary processor use
• Shelf Life: Long shelf life when sealed; once opened, store in a cool, dark place

The Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml provides flexibility in dilution to suit your workflow and preferences. The 1+9 dilution gives full contrast and sharpness, while 1+14 is ideal for extended economy use with slightly lower contrast.

How to Use Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml

1. Mixing: Dilute Ilfosol 3 developer with water to the desired ratio (1+9 or 1+14).
2. Development Time: Typically 6–8 minutes at 20°C, depending on film type and dilution.
3. Agitation: Use standard inversion or rotary agitation for even results.
4. Stop Bath & Fixer: Follow development with a stop bath and Ilford Rapid Fixer for best archival quality.

The Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is especially useful for photographers who develop film at home and require a quick, reliable chemical that doesn’t compromise on quality.

Film Compatibility

The Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is optimized for medium and slow speed films, such as Ilford FP4 Plus, Delta 100, and Kentmere 100. However, it also works well with higher speed films like Ilford HP5 Plus or Fomapan 400, delivering fine grain and balanced contrast even with faster emulsions. By choosing Ilfosol 3 developer, you ensure that your film negatives are clean, detailed, and ready for scanning or enlarging.

Safe Handling and Storage

Like all Ilford chemistry, Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is designed for safe use in a controlled environment. Always wear gloves and work in a well-ventilated area. Dispose of used developer according to local regulations. Once opened, tightly reseal the Ilfosol 3 developer bottle and store in a cool, dark place. For best results, use within 3–6 months of opening.

Why Photographers Trust Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml

Photographers worldwide trust Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml for its ease of use, reliable results, and fine grain performance. It is a go-to choice for beginners learning the film process as well as professionals who need consistent quality. Many photography schools recommend this developer because it simplifies the learning process while still delivering professional-level negatives.

Useful Links (Onestopphoto.in)

• ADOX Adofix P 500ml – A reliable fixer to use after Ilfosol 3 for archival black and white negatives.
• B&W Film Chemistry – Full range of B&W developers and fixers
• FOMA Ortho 400/120 is a premium 6×9 cm black and white film roll
• Film Developing Accessories – Trays, measuring cylinders, and timers etc.

Learn More

• Ilford Ilfosol 3 Developer – Official PDF Guide
• Ilford Development Times PDF – Timings for Ilfosol 3 and various films
• Beginner’s Guide to Film Developing – Ideal for first-time users of Ilfosol 3

Conclusion

The Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is a powerful yet easy-to-use liquid developer that offers fine grain, excellent tonal control, and consistent performance for all B&W films. Perfect for home darkrooms and professional labs, it simplifies the film developing process without sacrificing quality. With its liquid format, flexible dilution options, and trusted Ilford formulation, Ilfosol 3 developer is an essential addition to any darkroom setup. Experience clean, sharp, and archival-quality negatives with every roll.

FAQs – Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml

1. What is Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml used for?

Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is a liquid black & white film developer designed to produce fine grain, sharp detail, and smooth tonality. It is suitable for developing all traditional B&W films, making it ideal for home darkrooms and professional labs.

2. Which films work best with Ilford Ilfosol 3 developer?

Ilfosol 3 works exceptionally well with medium- and slow-speed films such as Ilford FP4 Plus, Delta 100, Kentmere 100, and Foma 100. It also provides reliable results with faster films like Ilford HP5 Plus and Fomapan 400.

3. What is the recommended dilution for Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml?

The standard dilution is 1+9 for maximum sharpness and full contrast. For more economical use, 1+14 dilution is recommended, producing slightly lower contrast but excellent tonality.

4. How long is the development time for Ilfosol 3?

Typical development time is 6–8 minutes at 20°C, depending on the film you’re using and your chosen dilution. Always refer to the official Ilford development chart for exact timings.

5. How long does Ilford Ilfosol 3 last after opening?

Once opened, Ilfosol 3 should be used within 3–6 months for best results. Store the bottle tightly sealed in a cool, dark place to maximize shelf life.

6. Is Ilford Ilfosol 3 safe for beginners?

Yes, Ilfosol 3 is an excellent choice for beginners because it is a liquid concentrate (easy to mix), gives predictable results, and works with all common B&W films. Photography schools frequently recommend it for learning film development.

7. Can Ilfosol 3 be used for both 35mm and 120 film?

Absolutely. Ilford Ilfosol 3 500ml is compatible with 35mm, 120 (medium format), and sheet films, making it a versatile developer for all black & white film photographers.

8. Do I need a stop bath and fixer after using Ilfosol 3 developer?

Yes. After developing with Ilfosol 3, you should use an acid stop bath (or water rinse) followed by a reliable fixer such as Ilford Rapid Fixer or ADOX Adofix P for archival-quality negatives.