Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch Pro Quality RC Paper (100)

Professional Black & White Printing with Consistent Results

The Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch Pro Quality RC Paper is a trusted choice among darkroom photographers who demand consistent tonal control, excellent sharpness, and professional results in every print. Designed for black and white enlargements, contact sheets, and test prints, this resin-coated photographic paper combines Ilford’s renowned emulsion technology with the convenience of a fast-processing RC base.

Whether you are a professional darkroom printer, fine art photographer, or an enthusiast perfecting traditional printing techniques, Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch paper delivers dependable performance and refined image quality across a wide range of subjects and contrast levels.

What Makes Ilford MG4RC44M Special?

Ilford’s Multigrade IV RC Deluxe series has long been respected in the analog photography community. The Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch version features a pearl (semi-matte) surface that reduces glare while maintaining crisp detail and deep blacks. This balance makes it ideal for both exhibition prints and practical darkroom workflows. Unlike fiber-based papers that require extended washing and drying times, RC paper allows photographers to work efficiently without sacrificing quality. With this paper, you get the best of both worlds—professional image characteristics and everyday usability.

Optimized Size for Versatile Darkroom Use

The 5×7 inch (12.7 × 17.8 cm) format is one of the most versatile sizes in black and white printing. The Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch paper is perfect for:

• Contact sheets for 35mm and medium format negatives
• Test prints during exposure and contrast evaluation
• Small exhibition prints
• Portfolio building and proofing
• Educational darkroom environments

Because the paper is easy to handle and economical, it is especially popular among photography students and professionals who print frequently.

Multigrade Technology for Creative Control

One of the strongest advantages of Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch paper is its compatibility with multigrade contrast control. By using multigrade filters or a color enlarger head, photographers can precisely adjust contrast without changing paper types.

This allows you to:

• Recover highlight and shadow detail
• Fine-tune midtone separation
• Print negatives with varying densities on the same paper

From soft, delicate tones to punchy, high-contrast images, Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch adapts effortlessly to your creative intent.

Pearl Surface: The Ideal Balance

The 44M pearl surface offers a refined finish that sits between glossy and matte. This makes Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch especially suitable for professional presentation:

• Reduced reflections compared to glossy paper
• Better fingerprint resistance
• Enhanced perceived sharpness
• Elegant appearance for framing and portfolios

This surface is widely preferred by photographers who want a premium look without the drawbacks of high gloss.

Consistent Tonal Range & Sharp Detail

Ilford’s emulsion technology ensures that Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch paper produces:

• Deep, rich blacks
• Clean highlights
• Smooth midtone transitions
• Excellent edge sharpness

These qualities are critical when printing detailed negatives, architectural photography, portraits, and fine art work where tonal subtlety matters.

Fast Processing for Efficient Workflow

As a resin-coated paper, Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch is designed for speed and consistency in the darkroom:

• Short development times
• Minimal washing requirements
• Quick drying with flat results
• Reduced risk of chemical retention

This makes it ideal for photographers who print in high volumes or work in limited darkroom spaces.

Compatible with Standard Darkroom Chemistry

The Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch paper works seamlessly with all major black and white paper developers, fixers, and toners. It is especially well-suited for use with Ilford chemistry.

Recommended developers:

• Ilford Multigrade Developer
• Ilford Multigrade Developer Plus
• Ilford PQ Universal

You can learn more about Ilford’s official paper chemistry recommendations on Ilford Photo’s website: https://www.ilfordphoto.com/black-and-white-paper/

Ideal Applications

The Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch paper is widely used for:

• Darkroom proofing and test strips
• Professional contact sheets
• Exhibition-quality small prints
• Educational and institutional darkrooms
• Home darkroom setups

Its reliability and forgiving nature make it suitable for beginners, while its tonal depth satisfies experienced printers.

Why Choose Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch Over Other RC Papers?

Compared to generic RC papers, Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch stands out due to:

• Decades of Ilford manufacturing expertise
• Superior emulsion consistency
• Better contrast control
• Predictable results across batches

Ilford’s reputation in analog photography is built on trust, and this paper reflects that heritage.

Storage & Handling Tips

To maintain optimal results with Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch, store the paper:

• In a cool, dry place
• Away from light and moisture
• In its original packaging

Allow the paper to acclimate to room temperature before opening to prevent condensation.

Useful Links

• Ilford Multigrade Filters – Contrast Control for B&W Printing
• Paterson Universal Developing Tank – Reliable Film Processing
• Kaiser Enlarger Easel – Precise Print Borders
• Ilford Multigrade Developer – Consistent Paper Development.

External Learning Resources

For photographers looking to deepen their darkroom knowledge, these authoritative resources are highly recommended:

• Ilford Photo – Black & White Printing Guides
  https://www.ilfordphoto.com
• Darkroom Printing Basics – Ilford-Compatible Workflow (Photrio)
  https://www.photrio.com/forum/threads/darkroom-printing-basics.19147/

Conclusion

The Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch Pro Quality RC Paper is a dependable, high-performance choice for black and white darkroom printing. With its pearl surface, wide tonal range, multigrade flexibility, and fast processing characteristics, it meets the needs of both professionals and serious enthusiasts. If you value consistency, creative control, and professional results in a compact format, Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch is an excellent addition to your darkroom workflow.

FAQs – Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch

1. Is Ilford MG4RC44M suitable for beginners?

Yes, it is very forgiving and easy to process, making it ideal for beginners and students.

2. Can I use this paper with any enlarger?

Yes, Ilford MG4RC44M 5×7 inch works with all standard black and white enlargers.

3. What surface finish does this paper have?

It features a pearl (44M) surface that balances contrast and glare reduction.

4. Does this paper require long washing times?

No, as an RC paper it requires minimal washing compared to fiber-based papers.

5. Can I tone prints made on this paper?

Yes, it is compatible with selenium and other black and white toners.

6. Is it suitable for contact sheets?

Absolutely. The 5×7 inch size is ideal for contact sheets and proof prints.

7. How many sheets are included?

This pack contains 100 sheets of Ilford MG4RC44M paper.

8. Is this paper archival?

When processed and stored correctly, RC papers offer good longevity for professional use.