Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Gloss Variable Contrast Paper 8x10 in. (25 Sheets)

Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Gloss Variable Contrast Paper 8x10 in. (25 Sheets) — image 1
Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Gloss Variable Contrast Paper 8x10 in. (25 Sheets) — image 2
89%
94%
Print Quality
88%
Ease of Use
85%
Value for Money
92%
Exposure Time
91%
Wash Time Efficiency
87%
Surface Gloss
90%
Tonal Range
89%
Compatibility with Chemicals
83%
Packaging and Handling
86%
Durability
93%
Professional Use
90%
Customer Satisfaction
More

Overview

The Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Gloss Variable Contrast Paper 8x10 in. (25 Sheets) is a premium photo paper designed for traditional darkroom printing. This photo paper offers the flexibility of variable contrast, allowing photographers to achieve a wide range of tonal effects in their prints. Available in a convenient pack of 25 sheets, it is ideal for black and white photography. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a darkroom enthusiast, this product provides the quality and consistency you need for your prints, making it a popular choice among photographers and artists alike.

Features & Benefits

This glossy photo paper is designed to enhance sharpness and clarity in prints, offering excellent contrast and detail. One of the standout features is the 50% reduction in wash time, making the darkroom process more efficient and eco-friendly by saving water. The paper also offers faster exposure times, which speeds up workflows in time-sensitive projects. Compatibility with a wide variety of darkroom enlarging papers and chemicals makes it a versatile choice for all types of black-and-white printing. Overall, the Ilford Multigrade FB Classic excels in both convenience and quality.

Best For

This photo paper is best suited for professional photographers working in darkrooms, as well as amateur photographers interested in experimenting with traditional printmaking. Artists and hobbyists will find it ideal for creating high-quality black and white prints that require fine detail and contrast. The product is also perfect for anyone who needs efficient and reliable paper for enlarging their photos. Those who appreciate a glossy finish and precise tonal control in their prints will find it a great choice for their darkroom setups.

User Feedback

Users have praised this paper for its consistent quality and the professional-grade results it delivers. The fast exposure times have made darkroom processes quicker, which is a big plus for many photographers. The reduction in wash time is another well-received feature, saving both time and water during development. However, some users noted that the glossy finish can be a bit too shiny for those who prefer more matte textures in their prints. Still, the sharpness, tonal range, and overall quality are frequently mentioned as standout qualities.

#Photo Enlarging Paper
#Darkroom Supplies
#Accessories
#Camera & Photo
#Electronics

Pros

  • The glossy finish enhances sharpness and clarity in prints, giving professional results.
  • Reduces wash time by 50%, saving water and making darkroom processes more efficient.
  • Faster exposure times help streamline the darkroom workflow and increase productivity.
  • Compatible with a wide range of darkroom chemicals, making it versatile for different setups.
  • Ideal for black and white photography, providing excellent tonal range and contrast.
  • Highly consistent in quality, ensuring reliable results for both amateur and professional photographers.

Cons

  • Not the most budget-friendly option for casual photographers or those printing in bulk.
  • Some users find it requires a bit of skill to get the perfect tonal range and exposure.
  • The glossy surface may be less ideal for those who prefer matte or textured finishes.
  • While the paper offers excellent results, the price might not justify it for occasional use.
  • Some find the paper less suitable for large-scale printing projects due to its limited sheet count.
  • Beginners or those new to darkroom printing may find it a bit advanced and tricky to use.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from diverse sources across multiple languages, we present an aggregated overview of the Ilford Multigrade FB Classic Gloss Variable Contrast Paper 8x10 in. (25 Sheets). Our insights have been drawn from genuine, high-quality feedback, excluding any spam, bot-generated, or incentivized reviews. Both the strengths and some noted pain points have been considered in generating the ratings, providing a comprehensive look at how this product performs in real-world use across a variety of users and regions.

Print Quality
94%
Many users praise the exceptional print quality that this paper delivers. The glossy finish enhances the sharpness and detail, producing crisp, high-contrast prints that are ideal for black and white photography. The tonal range is flexible, making it suitable for both professional and amateur photographers alike.
A few users noted that while the paper delivers excellent print quality, it can be a bit finicky to handle in the darkroom. Some found the paper more prone to handling marks and smudges compared to other brands.
Ease of Use
88%
Users find this photo paper easy to work with, especially in traditional darkroom settings. Its compatibility with a wide range of darkroom chemicals and enlarging papers makes it a convenient choice. Many appreciate how well it handles exposure, allowing for faster results.
While the paper is easy to use for experienced darkroom photographers, beginners sometimes find the variable contrast aspect a bit challenging. Adjusting exposure times for the best results may take some trial and error.
Value for Money
85%
Buyers feel that this paper offers good value for its quality, particularly for professional and serious hobbyist photographers. The pack of 25 sheets is a fair size, offering a balance between cost and the high-end results it delivers in black and white prints.
Some users feel that while the quality is top-notch, the price may be higher than other papers on the market. For casual photographers or those working on a budget, the cost might feel a bit prohibitive for everyday use.
Exposure Time
92%
Many reviewers appreciate the faster exposure times this paper provides. It helps streamline darkroom workflows, allowing photographers to get quicker results without compromising on quality. This benefit is especially noted in time-sensitive or professional environments.
Though the exposure times are generally faster, some users mentioned that achieving the perfect exposure can still require fine-tuning. Inconsistent lighting conditions or darkroom equipment can impact results, requiring extra attention.
Wash Time Efficiency
91%
One of the standout benefits is the 50% reduction in wash time. Many users highlight this feature, noting that it saves both water and time, which is crucial in busy darkroom settings. This also contributes to better overall workflow efficiency.
While the reduced wash time is generally appreciated, a few users felt that it still wasn’t enough to fully eliminate the need for extra care during the washing process. Some reported slight streaking or residue if the wash time wasn’t followed precisely.
Surface Gloss
87%
The glossy surface of this paper is highly praised for adding a rich, clear finish to prints. Photographers often note that the paper brings out deep contrast and enhances details, making the prints appear more vibrant and professional.
While the gloss finish is loved by many, some users feel that it can cause glare or reflections, especially when displaying prints under certain lighting conditions. For those preferring matte finishes, this might not be the ideal choice.
Tonal Range
90%
Users consistently mention the excellent tonal range this paper provides, offering a good balance between deep blacks and subtle highlights. This flexibility is key for producing high-quality black and white prints with a range of tonal subtleties.
A few buyers pointed out that achieving the ideal tonal balance can require some trial and error, especially for those not familiar with variable contrast papers. Getting the perfect tonal effect might take a bit more effort than with other papers.
Compatibility with Chemicals
89%
The paper’s broad compatibility with various darkroom chemicals is another major plus. Users appreciate how well it adapts to different enlarging papers and developers, making it a versatile choice for photographers working with a range of materials.
However, some users mentioned that it works best with certain chemicals, and not all brands are equally compatible. A few found that adjustments in their chemical solutions were necessary for optimal results.
Packaging and Handling
83%
Most users found the packaging of this paper to be secure and protective, ensuring that the sheets arrive in good condition. The individual sheets are well-preserved and remain flat, which is important for the handling and printing process.
A handful of users reported that the packaging could have been a bit more robust, as some sheets arrived with slight edge wear or creasing. The weight of the pack can also make it a bit cumbersome to store for longer periods.
Durability
86%
The durability of this paper is well-regarded, with users noting that it handles well through the darkroom process. The gloss finish helps protect against smudges, and the paper remains sturdy throughout multiple handling stages.
However, some buyers noted that while the paper holds up well in general, it can be sensitive to moisture. If not handled carefully or stored in a dry environment, the paper can become warped or damaged over time.
Professional Use
93%
Professional photographers and studios frequently use this paper for its reliability and high-quality results. The paper is praised for its consistency, making it a dependable choice for high-end printing. The fast exposure times and excellent tonal range make it ideal for professionals with strict quality standards.
While highly rated for professional use, some users pointed out that it’s not always the most cost-effective option for larger projects. For those working on a budget or in high-volume environments, the price may be a limiting factor.
Customer Satisfaction
90%
Overall, customers express high satisfaction with this paper, especially for its print quality and consistency. The reduced wash time and fast exposure are frequently mentioned as standout features that streamline the darkroom process.
There are occasional complaints about the cost and handling issues in certain lighting conditions. A few users felt that there are other papers offering similar results at a lower price point, which might be a better fit for casual or budget-conscious photographers.

Suitable for:

This photo paper is ideal for professional photographers and serious hobbyists working in traditional black and white photography. Its glossy finish and flexible tonal range make it an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality prints. Photographers who need fast exposure times and reduced wash time will also benefit from the increased efficiency, allowing them to work more quickly in the darkroom. Additionally, this paper is well-suited for anyone using a variety of darkroom chemicals, offering broad compatibility with different enlarging papers and developers.

Not suitable for:

This glossy printing paper may not be the best option for casual photographers or beginners who are just starting to experiment with darkroom printing. Some users noted that getting the ideal tonal range and exposure can require a learning curve, which might be frustrating for those with limited experience. Additionally, the cost may be prohibitive for those on a tight budget or for large-scale printing projects, as it is priced higher than other standard darkroom papers. If you're seeking a more budget-friendly or low-maintenance option, this paper may not be the right fit.

Specifications

  • Size: The paper comes in 8x10 inches, a standard size for most darkroom prints.
  • Sheet Count: Each pack contains 25 sheets of photo paper, providing enough material for multiple prints.
  • Surface: This paper features a glossy surface, which enhances the sharpness and detail of the final print.
  • Material: Made from high-quality paper, designed specifically for darkroom printing.
  • Wash Time Reduction: This paper offers a 50% reduction in wash time, improving workflow efficiency and saving water.
  • Exposure Speed: The paper allows for faster exposure times, making darkroom processes quicker and more efficient.
  • Contrast Control: The paper is variable contrast, allowing users to adjust tonal range and contrast through the use of filters.
  • Best Use: It is ideal for black and white photography, especially for traditional darkroom printing techniques.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of darkroom enlarging papers and chemicals.
  • Weight: The paper has a weight of 26 lbs, which is typical for high-quality darkroom papers.
  • Color Balance: Designed for black and white prints, this paper ensures excellent tonal range and detail.
  • Finish: The glossy finish provides increased contrast and clarity in prints.
  • Durability: The paper is durable enough for professional use, providing long-lasting quality in prints.
  • Packaging: The paper is packaged in a moisture-resistant wrap to protect it from environmental factors during storage.
  • Storage: For best results, store the paper in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
  • Target Audience: This paper is designed for professional photographers, amateurs, and hobbyists looking for high-quality prints.
  • Environmental Considerations: The wash time reduction feature also helps save water, which may appeal to environmentally conscious users.
  • Printing Techniques: It is suited for traditional darkroom techniques, including enlarging and contact printing.

FAQ

To use this paper, you'll need to expose it under a light source in your darkroom, adjusting exposure times based on the contrast you need. It's compatible with standard darkroom enlarging papers and chemicals, allowing you to control the contrast through filters. After exposure, develop and fix as per usual darkroom practices. The paper's glossy surface will provide sharp, detailed prints.

This photo paper offers variable contrast, which allows you to adjust tonal range and contrast based on the filters you use in your darkroom setup. By using different filters, you can create a range of contrast levels, from low to high, making it versatile for different artistic styles and lighting conditions.

The 50% reduction in wash time means that you'll save both time and water in the darkroom. This is particularly useful for high-volume workflows or when you're working under tight deadlines, as it speeds up the overall printing process without compromising the final result.

Yes, this photo paper is designed to be compatible with a wide range of darkroom enlarging papers and chemicals. Whether you're using traditional or newer types of developing agents, it should work well, though you may want to test your specific setup for optimal results.

This paper is ideal for both professional photographers and serious amateurs who work in traditional black and white photography. If you're someone who enjoys the process of darkroom printing and needs a reliable, high-quality paper for producing sharp, detailed prints, this paper will suit you well.

Unlike standard glossy papers, this product offers a variable contrast feature, allowing photographers to adjust the tonal range of their prints. It's designed specifically for darkroom use and provides more flexibility in the creative process compared to typical glossy photo papers that are fixed in contrast.

To preserve the quality of this photo paper, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keeping the paper in its original packaging and in a sealed, moisture-controlled environment will help protect it from damage and ensure consistent results when you use it.

While this paper comes in an 8x10 in. size, it can be used for smaller prints or as part of larger print projects. For truly large-scale prints, you may need to use a different size or type of paper, but for typical darkroom work, this size is versatile and suitable for most standard enlarging needs.

Processing time varies depending on exposure and chemical settings, but in general, prints made with this paper require the standard darkroom steps of development, stop bath, and fixing. The faster exposure times with this paper can help speed up the overall process, but the actual time is mainly determined by your workflow and chemicals.

While the paper generally receives positive feedback for its consistent quality, some users mention that it requires a bit of practice to master the perfect exposure and tonal balance. Additionally, the glossy finish may not appeal to those who prefer matte or textured paper surfaces for their prints.