This formula repository is for darkroom workers who want to understand what a formula does, not just copy a recipe from a list.
Each post breaks down a traditional darkroom formula in plain English. I explain what each chemical does, how the formula works, how to mix and use it safely, and what kind of visual result you can expect in real prints.
My main focus is silver gelatin paper negatives, fiber-based contact prints, warm-tone developers, bleaching, toning, and variable thiocarbamide sepia redevelopment. These are practical formulas for people working with paper, chemistry, trays, time, and judgment in a real darkroom.
This is not meant to replace current safety data sheets, manufacturer instructions, or good darkroom practice. Chemistry changes, products change, and every darkroom is different. Always check current SDS documents, use proper ventilation and protection, label everything clearly, and test carefully before using any formula on important work.
The goal is simple: help you understand the chemistry well enough to make better decisions in your own darkroom.
Darkroom Diary Premium members get deeper testing notes, practical print observations, workflow refinements, and behind-the-scenes darkroom experiments as this repository grows.
NOTE: I have over 200 formulas to share with you. My plan is to try and publish 2 to 3 per week and over time, we will have a comprehensive reference library. As I shared above, this formula repository is difference because I break down the role and purpose of each chemical in the formula and in the Darkroom Diary Premium version, I go much deeper on testing insights, chemistry, and my personal notes.
PRINT DEVELOPER FORMULAS
Agfa/Ansco 135 Warmtone Paper Developer – [Formula & Article] [YouTube Video]
Agfa/Ansco 130 Warm-Black Paper Developer – [Formula & Article] [YouTube Video]
FILM DEVELOPER FORMULAS
Kodak D-76 Film Developer – [Formula & Article] [YouTube Video]
Ilford ID-11 Film Developer – [Formula & Article] [YouTube Video]
Kodak D-23 – [Formula & Article] [YouTube Video]
Rodinal (Substitute) – [Formula & Article] [YouTube Video]