Last Updated on January 22, 2023
You finally found that perfect box of darkroom paper at a garage sale, but how can you be sure it’s still good? Darkroom paper can last a long time if stored properly, but it’s always best to test a sheet before using it for your project. Here’s how to test darkroom paper to see if it’s still good.
Darkroom paper can last a long time if stored properly. However, it is always best to test the paper before using it to make sure it is still good. To test the paper, simply expose it to light and thendevelop it.
If the paper turns black, then it is still good. If the paper turns white or silver, then it has lost its light-sensitive properties and should be discarded.
How Long Can Darkroom Paper Last
darkroom paper can last for a very long time if it is stored in a cool, dry place. However, if the paper is exposed to light or heat, it will begin to degrade and yellow over time.
How to Test If Darkroom Paper is Still Good
If you’ve been storing darkroom paper and are unsure if it’s still good, there’s a simple test you can do to find out. First, cut a small square of the paper off and place it in a dish of water. Leave it for a few minutes before taking it out and holding it up to the light.
If the paper is still white, then it’s still good. If it’s discolored or has changed texture, then it’s time to get new paper.
Darkroom Diary – Testing Lodima & Lupex Contact Papers in Dektol Using a Shanghai GP3 100 Negative
Conclusion
This blog post covers the topic of how long darkroom paper can last, as well as how to test it to see if it is still viable. The author notes that darkroom paper has a shelf life of around two years, but this can vary depending on the manufacturer and type of paper. They recommend doing a test strip before using any old paper to make sure it will still produce quality results.
Overall, this is a helpful post for anyone who uses or plans to use darkroom paper in their photography workflow.