Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch Pro Quality RC Paper (100)

Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch Pro Quality RC Paper (100 Sheets)

Black and white darkroom printing demands consistency, tonal accuracy, and reliable materials that respond predictably to different enlargers, developers, and contrast controls. Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch Pro Quality RC Paper is designed precisely for photographers who value professional-level results without compromising efficiency or archival standards. This paper is part of Ilford’s trusted resin-coated (RC) range, offering dependable performance for both learning environments and serious darkroom workflows.

Whether you are producing exhibition prints, contact sheets, or high-quality enlargements, this paper delivers the balance of speed, tonal control, and image stability that has made Ilford a benchmark brand in black-and-white photographic printing.

Professional RC Paper Designed for Darkroom Efficiency

The Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch paper features a resin-coated base, which significantly reduces processing time compared to fiber-based papers. RC paper is sealed with polyethylene layers on both sides, allowing chemicals to work efficiently on the emulsion while preventing deep absorption into the paper base.

This construction means:

• Faster development and fixing
• Shorter wash times
• Quicker drying with minimal curling

For photographers who print frequently or work in shared darkrooms, these characteristics translate directly into higher productivity and more consistent output.

Multigrade Emulsion for Precise Contrast Control

At the core of the Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch paper is Ilford’s Multigrade emulsion technology. This variable-contrast system allows you to control image contrast using multigrade filters or compatible color enlarger heads.

Key benefits of multigrade printing include:

• Fine control over highlight and shadow separation
• Flexibility when working with negatives of varying densities
• Reduced need to stock multiple fixed-grade papers

This makes the paper especially suitable for photographers who work with mixed film stocks or negatives developed under different conditions.

Pearl Surface for Balanced Image Presentation

The “M” in ISRC344M denotes a pearl (semi-matte) surface finish, which offers a refined balance between glossy and matte papers. The pearl surface reduces glare while maintaining excellent perceived sharpness and contrast.

Advantages of the pearl finish include:

• Improved viewing under mixed lighting conditions
• Reduced fingerprints compared to glossy paper
• Enhanced detail visibility in mid-tones

For portrait, documentary, and fine-art prints, the pearl finish often provides the most versatile presentation style.

Tonal Range and Image Sharpness

One of the defining qualities of Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch paper is its wide tonal range. From deep, rich blacks to clean, detailed highlights, the paper responds smoothly across the tonal scale.

Photographers will notice:

• Strong D-max (maximum black density)
• Smooth highlight transitions
• Crisp edge definition without harshness

This makes it an excellent choice for negatives exposed and developed using standard black-and-white workflows, including films from Ilford, Kodak, Foma, and other manufacturers.

Compatibility with Popular Developers

The Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch RC paper performs reliably with a wide range of commonly used paper developers. Recommended developers include:

• Ilford Multigrade Developer – balanced contrast and consistent tones
• Ilford PQ Universal – enhanced blacks and crisp image structure

Development times are short and predictable, which is especially useful in teaching labs, home darkrooms, and professional print environments.

Ideal 8×10 Inch Format for Versatile Printing

The 8×10 inch format is one of the most widely used print sizes in black-and-white photography. Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch paper is perfectly suited for:

• Standard enlargements from 35mm and 120 film
• Contact printing medium-format negatives
• Portfolio prints and proofing
• Archival documentation and educational use

The pack of 100 sheets ensures long printing sessions without frequent restocking, making it cost-effective for serious printers.

Archival Stability and Image Longevity

When processed correctly according to Ilford’s recommendations, Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch prints exhibit excellent image stability. RC papers are designed to maintain image integrity while simplifying washing and drying.

For optimal longevity:

• Use fresh fixer and proper fixing times
• Follow recommended wash durations
• Allow prints to dry fully before storage

While fiber papers are often chosen for museum-grade archival work, modern RC papers like this one are widely accepted for long-term storage and professional presentation.

Who Should Use This Paper?

The Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch Pro Quality RC Paper is ideal for:

• Darkroom beginners learning contrast control
• Advanced photographers producing consistent prints
• Photography schools and institutions
• Professionals needing reliable, repeatable results
• Film photographers printing at home or commercially

Its forgiving nature, combined with professional image quality, makes it suitable across skill levels.

Useful Links

• Ilford Multigrade Developer – Darkroom Paper Developer
• Ilford PQ Universal Paper Developer
• Paterson Universal Developing Tank
• Ilford MG4 RC Paper Range
• Check out all Ilford Photographic Paper

Learn More (Authoritative Resources)

These trusted resources help users understand correct darkroom practices and paper handling:

• Preparing to Print – Ilford Photo Guide (Darkroom Basics)
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com/preparing-to-print/ :- This beginner-friendly Ilford page explains essentials of darkroom printing, mixing chemistry, and RC paper recommendations from Ilford’s official materials.
• Multigrade RC Paper Technical Information (PDF)
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/MULTIGRADE-IV-RC-Papers-060619.pdf
• Ilford Paper Technical Downloads (Contrast, Wash & Filters) https://www.ilfordphoto.com/paper-technical/:- This is Ilford’s official technical hub where you can download genuine RC paper contrast control charts, wash guides, and processing sheets.

Conclusion

Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch Pro Quality RC Paper (100 Sheets) is a dependable choice for photographers who demand consistent black-and-white results with efficient processing. Its multigrade emulsion, pearl surface, and RC construction combine to deliver professional-quality prints with minimal workflow complexity. Whether used for learning, production printing, or refined personal work, this paper continues Ilford’s legacy of darkroom excellence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch suitable for beginners?

Yes. Its RC base and multigrade emulsion make it forgiving and easy to process, ideal for beginners learning darkroom printing.

2. Can this paper be used with color enlargers?

Yes. The multigrade emulsion works perfectly with color enlarger heads using standard filtration.

3. What surface finish does this paper have?

It has a pearl (semi-matte) finish, offering reduced glare with excellent sharpness.

4. Is Ilford ISRC344M 8×10 inch archival?

When properly processed and stored, prints have very good long-term stability suitable for professional use.

5. Which developer works best with this paper?

Ilford Multigrade Developer and Ilford PQ Universal are both highly recommended for optimal tonal results.

6. How long does this RC paper take to wash?

Wash times are short—typically 2 to 5 minutes—making it faster than fiber-based papers.

7. Can this paper be used for contact printing?

Yes, it is well suited for contact sheets and medium-format contact prints.

8. Is this paper compatible with other film brands?

Absolutely. It works well with negatives from Kodak, Ilford, Foma, and other black-and-white film manufacturers.