Ilford Delta 400. Better than HP5? Different...

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About This Video -
I ordered a brick of Ilford Delta 400 to give it a try and see if I can get on with it. My fav film is Ilford HP5 but I can't use if for any of my scapes. It's too grainy in the sky but is great for my street photography and portraits too. To see if Ilford Delta 400 would suit my scapes and portraits I thought I'd try it out. I like it.
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www.rogerlowe.co.uk
FACEBOOK
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INSTAGRAM
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EQUIPMENT USED IN THIS VIDEO
CAMERA - Mamiya RZ
FILM - Ilford Delta 400
DEVELOPER - ADOX FX39, 1:9, 10 mins
STOP & FIX - Ilford
ENLARGER - DURST M605
PAPER - Kentmere VC Gloss
DEVELOPER - Ilford MG
STOP & FIX - Ilford
PRODUCTION GEAR
CANON 6D, GOPRO 7 BLACK, TASCAM DR10L MIC, SENHEISSER SHOTGUN MIC,
NEEWER LED PANELS, GVM COLOUR PANELS, Valoi 360 Film Holder System for scanes, Zeapon Micro 2 Motor Slider,
Editing - FCP, PHOTOSHOP, LIGHTROOM,
ABOUT MY VIDEOS
If my videos inspire, create ideas and help others in film photography and darkroom work then it's worth making them.
I always welcome comments that are useful towards the video subject that will help others understand the process within.
Keep shooting and thanks for watching.
MUSIC CREDITING
KZbin Studio Music

[@odukar2315]

Two years ago I switched from HP5 to Delta 400. I like the less graininess and sharpness of this film. Thx for sharing!

[@Normanskie]

With regards to your photography, to the world you are one person but to one elderly couple your are the world.

[@texas3540]

I changed to Delta 400 when I bought my Xpan II back in 2008 and I was so pleased with it that I used it for SLR work as well. I follow Ilford's guide by developing it in stock ID11 for 9.5 minutes.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I was going to go ID-11. That will be my next

[@rickyzagalo]

On b&w I clearly chose Ilford Delta, for what I'm looking for. But very recently I tried Ilford XP2 and, I'm really pleased, it gives very good contrast and latitude. I feel that it may become my Asa 400 choice. Any way Ilford deserves all our respect and esteem, for what they work and provides to us, pro or amateur photographers, a full and very good b&w film range, at "real" prices, and no supply disruption.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Ilford are commited to the community, socially as well! XP2 is a awesome film. I develop it in BW chemistry with good results.

[@arty2917]

Always love seeing your videos in my feed!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Glad you like them!

[@kormakur]

My go to film is delta 100 and rodinal is my developer. I just love that combo. Great video as always ! Cheers from Iceland

[@ebrien01]

Nice work. I always enjoy watching your adventures. Cheers!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Cheers.

[@richardsimms251]

Educational video. Plus great fun. Thank you very much. RS. Canada

[@yetanotherbassdude]

I'm pretty settled on HP5 in 35mm as for that I *want* the grain, but for 120 I just love Ilford Delta, both the 100 and the 400. It's just so smooth! Love these still life shots you took with it, too. Kind of reminded me of some of Edward Weston's still lifes, just really drawing your eye into an object that you'd otherwise only glance at.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks!

[@robertosinglemalt]

Wonderful work!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@chrispickett6069]

I have to say that Delta 400 is now my Go To Roger. I like it very much and have shot portraits and landscapes. It develops very well in Ilford DDX and I've also found its good in HC110 developer dilution B. Glad you like it, I use it a lot and it just delivers, have fun mate, good vid as always

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Cheers Chris. I did read it is less forgiving than HP5 with regards to errors. Time will tell!

[@ianhand5006]

I used to service Mamiya gear, the RZ67 was my favourite.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

It's solid as far as build and quality goes. Never fails to deliver. (yet)

[@mdanie4756]

Ian, your expertise and input would be very welcome on the Learn Camera Repair facebook group when members have queries about repairing vintage Mamiya gear, if you're interested.

[@JonnyEnglish-gu1cs]

After watching this video a month ago I ordered some to try out in my new ETRS looking forward to seeing the results as I have never shot it before

[@milodermick2981]

You are really the boss !

[@GirdHerd]

This test helped convince me that I should switch over to Delta 400 from HP5 for my landscape photography. Thanks.

[@rdmckeever7645]

As always, enjoyed the video. I've been using Ortho & FP4 for serious photography (well, not too serious). HP5 is what I use to test old cameras I've bought (boring standard target pictures). You have convinced me to try Delta 400...

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Ortho is fantastic.

[@JonnyEnglish-gu1cs]

Hi Roger I have never shot delta 400 shot most other film HP5 and TRI X T MAX etc interesting to see the results I like what I see may have to give it good 👍🏻

[@m00dawg]

Heya I got a shoutout! Thanks Roger! Also those prints turned out lovely! I rather like Delta 400 as well. It was actually among the first films I shot when I got back into film a few years ago. I really like how it handles wood and texture and kinda consider it sort of in the middle of HP5 and T-Max 400. It kinda has the best of both in a way.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Cheers Tim! Now I have that glass I have spare templates lol

[@m00dawg]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss I'm also experimenting around with glass for my Omega D2. Even just using glass on top I found the negatives are impressively flat. The dust has always kept me away from it though (in fact that's why I made those templates - so I could remove the glass that came with my Durst carrier ;) ). I don't recall you saying how you liked the glass in video - but sounds like it was a success? Interested to hear the results!

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

@@m00dawg Well I didn't get any dust on the print Tim so I was pleased. lol

[@jacopotassinari]

Thank for the video, I like very much the looks you obtained in your indoor photos (fake leaves are really fake... ;D). I'll get some rolls asap to try.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Have fun!

[@Bartuul]

I use HP5 for 120 and Delta for 35mm. I've tried Delta on 120 once and loved it... still have about 10 frozen HP5 rolls though. But once I chew through them I'll have a tough decision to make. :)

[@digitalrex5]

Kentmere vs hp5 the eternal question, can’t wait!

[@espenbjrkvold5119]

Interesting video this. For some reason I prefer HP5 over Delta 400. Not that it’s anything wrong with the Delta 400, but I find it easier to get the results I want with HP5. Thank you for another video. They’re always very inspiring.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yes Espen, HP5 is solid film and more forgiving than D400.

[@BarwickGreen]

I use Delta 400 when I'm out for a walk with my wife and the dog, so a tripod isn't permitted. It's a really versatile film letting me grab hand-held shots in shady locations, and I love the way it handles the tones in woodland.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Delta range are a very good film. New technology emulsion as Ilford say

[@stephendeakin2714]

Used Delta 400 for years and years, always developed in DD-X. Rewards careful metering.

[@devroombagchus7460]

Thanks again. I used to avoid grain, but lately I have come to appreciate it more in certain images. More photo-like? I Don't know, except it can add to character.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Grain can make a print. I like it in some aspects. Especially street.

[@devroombagchus7460]

Actually, Ribsy made me question my “grown-up with” dislike of grain. Thanks Ribsy!

[@TrashTheLens]

Delta is good stuff. But if it is the ultimate grainlessness in 400 speed what you're after, then TMAX developed in its dedicated T-max dev or in DDX is what you might want to give a try. Both TMAX and Delta work nicely in situations where you want the least noticeable grain, so seascapes is one example, but also scenes in thick, textureless fog.

[@cessna1511]

Some great shots there. HP5+ is my favourite too but the reduced grain on delta 400 is lovely. I like delta 400 developed in DDX.

[@jameslane3846]

Have you tried it in 510 Pyro yet Daniel? 😜 it blew Ilford's own executives' minds when I showed Delta 400 in 510 Pyro 😄

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

One I shall have to try James.

[@cessna1511]

@@jameslane3846 not yet. I’m planning on shooting a roll next weekend so I’ll give it a go.

[@MrZosh]

Thank you for another great video!!! I'm a huge fan of Delta 400 (especially developed in DD-X). One question: Who is the manufacturer of the negative carrier?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Ne carrier is a Durst MrZosh

[@horatiueduard]

I always loved Kodak Tmax 100 but now, with Kodak's cheeky price raise (which I understand), I started using Ilford Delta 100 and this video gives me reassurance. I didn't develop any of it yet but I think Delta 100 will be as good as Tmax.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

The Deltas are very good and price too

[@barrieanthony952]

Not all heros wear capes

[@petervanorsouw2858]

If you like fine grain and sharpness, then try Ilford Delta 400 at ISO 320 in Perceptol 1+1 20c 15.5 minutes. Nice 🥂

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Thanks for the tip Peter.

[@adriancullen8159]

great video. I prefer the look of HP5's grain compared to D400. HP5 in Perceptol rated at 250 has very fine grain and sharpness in 35mm and 120. At 400 ISO I prefer to use FX39ii for both D400 and HP5

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Hp5 has good grain I find for street photography.

[@faraz2498]

HP5+ for the grain!! long live grain!

[@ianlainchbury]

Inspirational as usual! I've just shot a roll of Delta 400, and processed in Ilfosol 3. I'm reading all sorts on line, and as I don't get as much time as I'd like, I'm reluctant to buy more developer. I seem to be processing a roll of something, every 2-3 weeks, so keeping a stock of differing chems isn't financially viable really, not to mention shelf life. I'm tempted though, to go for Rodinol, and Fotospeed fixer for the next batch. Wondering what the thoughts are, when I'm shooting FP4, HP5, Delta, Rollei IR? Best all round developer? Thanks Roger :)

[@nelsonm.5044]

I very rarely use HP5 preferring from far the Delta 400 for my landscape photography

[@kdj.imagery4317]

I know this vid's a bit old, however I've just watched it and it's funny this film is the very roll that I have started shooting with since starting to shoot with medium format film. That's if I haven't fogged it! Ever use a blue filter? In Nik's collection of film presets in Silver Effects Pro they have a blue filter and when I click on it my images get really dark. Was wondering if it had similar effects on film.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I've never used a blue filter. Obviously it would lighten blues such as sky. And blue eyes maybe for portraiture would be light

[@filmismorefun]

ULAB (Uber Like a Boss). I prefer HP5 over Delta most times, but these Delta images turned out nice.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I had to think for a moment if I took an Uber in that vid ! Ha, cheers

[@node547]

Delta 400 is a fantastic film indeed. Tmax 400 as well btw.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Tmax is great, costs more

[@ronaldmoravec2692]

Fantastic beautiful film IF developed in Ilford DDX or Kodak Xtol. D76 gives horrid grain and is my developer of choice.

[@bcegerton]

I’m just starting out with Film Photography, first roll didn’t go well with it coming out blank, probably user error. Got some FP4 in one of my Minoltas so will see how they turn out, if they do that is. I’ve always said I’ve no interest in developing my own, that was before I started shooting film and found out what the costs are these days so if I do find I enjoy more and more I’ll look into processing my own but doubt I’ll go as far as printing from film, not for a good while at least. Any tips for starting out with processing will be greatly appreciated

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Just stick to the films recommendation for the developer you use. Fp4 and Ilford DDX was my first attempt. DDX is a good developer and easy to use. If you follow the Ilford guide. Email me if you need a hand. Blank films. If the film is totally clear with no edge numbers you have fixed your film before developing. Easy to do starting out if you don't label your jugs. If your leader is black and the rest of your film is clear and you can see the edge numbers then the development was fine but no images were exposed. Possible camera issue, lens cap was on (doubtful), or your film slipped off the spall and you were taking photos without knowing. Another easy mistake.

[@bcegerton]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss Thanks for the info, I think it came down to being loaded wrongly

[@lloydgarland4667]

Back in the day I used to use almost exclusively Kodak's Tri X with the odd roll of Tmax if Jessop's ran out. HP5 just didn't compare. Now Tri-X is 10 quid a roll, I re-visited Ilford's HP5 plus and hated it. MUCH prefer Ilford Delta in ID-11! I've yet to try Kentmere but to be honest, why try to fix what isn't broken? Delta for the win, and I'm pleased that you like it so much. May I suggest you give it a go in ID-11? You won't be sorry, I'm sure.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Yes ID-11 is my next try Lloyd. I was going to use it for this video but went for the FX39.

[@lensman5762]

Don't underestimate the HP5. It is one of the most versatiles films available with huge dynamic range. It also responds very differently to different developers , so one can tailor the response curve to suit. Tri X, particularly the 320 Pro can be magical in 4X5 and HC 110 Dilution H, but otherwise it is a little too contrasty and grainy if not handled well.

[@jonnoMoto]

My go to in 120. It's ok in 35mm and prefer it over hp5+. Not as fined grained as tmax but much cheaper. Develop it it ddx.

[@jeromemichaud.youtube]

Thanks mate for your experience, I really love Delta 400 and I know now why The grain is really fine, I push it to 1600 sometimes and it's really amazing Delta400 rules ! Best regards

[@Marius-Cristian]

Hey Roger, when are you planing to start using colour film?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Not sure if I will MC. Maybe one day I will get more curious.

[@analogueandy8x10]

I use both films. They are different. HP5 is traditional grain, whereas Delta 400 is T-grained. HP5's spectral sensitivity drops significantly at 650nm, like most conventional B/W films, whereas Delta 400 drops at 700nm. That little boost in the reds can make a big difference. For pushing, they are both very good. At the end of the day, I prefer the traditional grained HP5. I wish though that Ilford still made Delta 400 in sheet film sizes, but most likely that would impact with the sale if HP5...

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Interesting thought over the 4x5 Andy

[@andrey_mika]

Delta 100 is my favourite if I don’t want grain. Used 400 only once, I think… I wonder how it compares to 100 pushed to 400

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Give it a try Andrey :)

[@Dangoldmedia]

You lovely man. Sure I love the videos for the photography, but what a top chap you are.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Cheers 😊

[@FlosBlog]

I really like 6 by 7 as a format (I crop quite allot of my digital images that way) it still has the harmoniousness of square format yet retains a bit of dynamism

[@stefan_becker]

I'm now waiting on part 2: Is TMAX400 better than Delta 400? 😅

[@YoYoYo]

What BW film is your favourite?

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

ORWO UN54. As it's about £50 for 100ft and I've had great results.

[@lensman5762]

In all my 40 years of film photography, I have never shot Delta 400. This being a T grain emulsion, I'd be interested to see how it compared with Kodak TMY2, now that Kodak have sold off their chemical division.

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I may have to grab a roll and see for myself Lensman. You see I was trying to compare K400 and HP5. Ideally I would have used the same camera. The only way to have done that would have been a controlled indoor shoot where the light wouldn't change on the same subject. Shoot k400, then the hp5. But I chose two similar lenses on two different cameras. I was disappointed the Chinon CE5 failed on the shutter. I only noticed when one scene was 1/30th. The Chinon seemed to slap like 1/500... Any recommendations how to test two films outside?

[@lensman5762]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss You need an extra back for the Mamiya. This way no matter what the lighting or the tonal range of the scenery. you'd get a good idea of what these film are like.

[@brineb58]

Were the cinnamin sticks real? 😉

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Ha Ha, yes they were real Brian.

[@matthewwierzbowski1697]

Got my first few rolls of D400, I'm loving. Much more forgiving that HP5

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

I think you'll find hp5 is more forgiving for exposure errors.

[@f800gt76]

Theme of T-grain vs classic. HP5+ is classic while Delta is T-grain.

[@terrywbreedlove]

I really don't like HP5. Much prefer TRI-X contrast and yes grain. Even Tmax 400 has better contrast HP5 just looks muddy IMHO. I haven't shot Delta 400 yet so i might give it a try I already shoot Delta 100.

[@yetanotherbassdude]

What were you developing the HP5 in?

[@terrywbreedlove]

@@yetanotherbassdude D76

[@ShootFilmLikeaBoss]

Ive not shot much Tri-x Terry. I've only seen HP5 muddy once with a out of date brick I bought. Must have been stored in the dessert! It was awful.

[@terrywbreedlove]

@@ShootFilmLikeaBoss That sounds like a good video idea. Shoot them together and see :)

[@ggaffrey8573]

What hair?!?!

[@yakovkhalip9714]

never liked HP5+ - for me it seems to be low contrast. Even cheap Ilford PAN 400 is much better imho)