I loaded in a roll of Ilford HP5 as I was going inside Osbourne House on the Isle of Wight. It was the rural/holiday/summer residence of Queen Victoria and was designed by her beloved husband Albert. They purchased the estate together in 1845, she used it for the rest of her life, and died there in 1901. As such, the items inside are considered to be part of the Royal Collection and are therefore treated as such.
As I’ve said before I’m not one for looking at pots, plates and busts, although I do enjoy the architecture. It had been suggested by John Finch over at Pictorial Planet, that FX21 is a good match for HP5. I’m not a fan of grain per-se, and therefore tend to stick with slower films, that said when you need some film speed then you do! As a Royal Collection no flash is allowed and they are keen to remind you on entry – fair enough. These days I tend to develop HP5 in D23 as I’ve tried and tested it, and like the results, but with John’s recommendation I thought I’d give this roll a try in FX21. I’d say there is a little more grain, not much but a little. I think this does also make it a little sharper however, and I like the tones. I may be converted!
S.H.O.U.T. 