id-11 stock vs id-11 diluted

Stefano Bramato wrote:
I'm now experimenting in developing my negatives with id-11. Usually
I use the ilford hp5 and fp4 films.

Is it better to develop id-11 in stock solution or in diluted
solution (1:1) as most (as i read for short time in google) I read?
I'm temptating to develop in stock to reuse for about 5 times,
because usually I store 4-5 films until i develop in spiral tanks.
And of course, i develop 4-5 rolls at the same time.
(please sorry for my italian...)

Please, suggestions?


You'll get more answers in rec.photo.darkroom. When you dilute the
developer you change it. The chemicals are now reduced for the volume of
developer. Basically less of everything in every litre of water. This can
change how the developer works and how the negatives look. The most obvious
change is the times get longer. Longer times are actually a good thing. If
you're using say 10 minutes then being off by 1minute in your timing is 10%.
If you use 5 minutes then being off 1minute is 20%. Now you should be able
to time things better then that but some tanks fill or empty slowly.

Basically choose your dilution because of how the negatives look. It's
false economy to try and reuse your developer and end up with negatives you
don't like.

Nick