In article ,
"Liopleurodon" wrote:

Hi all,

I'm just starting out on the B&W develope and process road, and am slowly
gathering the gear to start a basic darkroom.

Everything I've read states that unexposed film (I'll be using B&W 35mm)
needs to be handled in complete darkness, you can't even use a safelight
with it. So I have to practice loading the bulk film loader and then the
developing tank in complete darkness.

My two questions a

Has anyone found a way of not doing this in complete darkness, eg.
night-vision, infra-red or special safelight filter?

You could certainly use night vision goggles, certain older emulsions
will tolerate the use of a dark green safe light for short durations.
The safe light is used for development inspection after the film has been
shot and is in the developer.


When handling the film, how important is it to keep your fingers off the
actual film face?

Its a very good idea not to touch the film, but unless your really man
handling it the places you touch probably won't appear on the final
product.

Obviously handling on the edges would be better, but in
complete darkness with my clumsy fingers, I can imagine when loading the
developing reel I'm gonna grab the film face at least once.Would this ruin
that patch, or is it ok as long as the touch is light?

With thanks.