Photography by Maria Savidis

The process

The black and white prints offered for sale on this website are custom printed using archival standards.  A fiber-based paper is used.  A seven-step process is followed.  The negative is inserted into the enlarger, light is transmitted through the transparent and semi-transparent areas, “exposing” the paper and “burning” an image on to it. Once exposed, the paper is immersed in a 1:3 Dektol developing solution. It is agitated continuously for two minutes.  The paper is then placed in acidic acid indicator stop bath solution for 30-60 seconds, a primary fixing bath for 4-5 minutes, a secondary fixing bath for 4-5 minutes, a water rinse for 5-10 minutes, and a photo flow bath for 2-3 minutes (to reduce final washing time). The chemicals are checked continuously to ensure stability.  A final wash for a minimum of 15 minutes removes all chemical residue. Once thoroughly washed, excess water is removed and the print is placed on a fiberglass screen to air dry.  The print is now ready to be matted, framed and displayed. This archival print should last indefinitely without fading.