---
title: "What are push and pull development? | Neo Analog Lab"
url: https://shop.neoanaloglab.com/en/news/faq-push-pull
language: en
description: "Compensating in development for film that was shot at a different ISO - e.g. ISO 400 film exposed at 800 or 1600 needs a push."
---

# What are push and pull development?

Compensating in development for film that was shot at a different ISO - e.g. ISO 400 film exposed at 800 or 1600 needs a push.

faq Neo Analog Lab Published July 9, 2026 Updated July 11, 2026

faq developing

**Push development** extends the development time for film exposed above its box speed - for example ISO 400 film shot at 1600 in low light is "pushed 2 stops." Expect stronger contrast and more pronounced grain; many photographers love the look.

**Pull development** is the opposite: shortened development for film that was overexposed (shot below box speed).

When ordering, tell us the difference in stops between the ISO you actually set and the film's box speed. Push/pull applies to the whole roll, so **you cannot change ISO mid-roll**. We support ±1-5 stops.

## Sources

- [Kodak's Tri-X technical data sheet (F-4017)](https://business.kodakmoments.com/sites/default/files/files/resources/f4017_TriX.pdf)
- [ILFORD's official guide to processing black & white film](https://www.ilfordphoto.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Processing-your-first-black-and-white-film.pdf)
- [ISO 6:1993 film speed standard](https://www.iso.org/standard/3580.html)

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