Our archival process - Each image is hand processed in a single tray utilizing a completely acid-free method, which keeps handling of the print to a bare minimum.
- The image is first exposed on double weight fiber base paper -AGFA CLASSIC- then placed in a dry developing tray.
- Developer is then poured in, allowing the image to develop for approximately 2 min.
- The developer is poured back into the container and the print is rinsed for 3 min. with four changes of water.
- The first fixing bath is added to the tray, for 4-5 min (the fix I use is based on Ansel Adams' 'plain fix' recipe, which contains no acid).
- It is then poured back into its container and the second fixing bath is added to the tray for another 4-5 min.
- After the second fix has been put back into its container, selenium toner (mixed 30:1) is added for 3 min. (Note about toning: since I do not use a stop bath or fix that contains acid, my print can go directly into the selenium toner without fear of staining. Also, since acid is not present in the process, washing after the second fix (usual practice before toning) is not necessary. Thus the print only requires one final wash.)
- The toner is then put back into its container and the print is rinsed with 3 changes of water (approx 2 min).
- Hypo clearing agent is then added for 3-4 min, put back into its container and the print is rinsed with 3 changes of water and put into the print washer.
The print is then washed for 90 min, then taped, face up to a pane of glass (to ensure it remains flat while it air dries) and the pane put in an upright rack. This drying method yields a perfectly flat print that stays flat over time, making it ideal for mounting with linen tape. OUR PHOTOGRAPHS ARE NEVER DRY MOUNTED!
Finally it is mounted on Bainbridge Alpharag Artcare 4-ply 100% cotton acid-free rag board with archival linen tape. A window mat is cut and overlaid (same as backing board) then it is packaged in archival crystal bags.