Film monogamists and polygamists

[giganova]

I only use HP5 @ 800, developed in DD-X, because I know exactly how the film will respond to all sorts of light situations. It takes guessing out of the equation.

 

[Chromacomaphoto]

I think in general it perhaps help to be a monogamist early on so that one can get a base foundation that is tried and true and produces 100% consistent results every time.

It eliminates variables and allows for better understanding and progress in your work. Once that has been achieved, well I think it's then ok to slut around a bit sometimes.😛

I also agree that it's perhaps easier for people who tend to shoot similar things in similar situations all the time to be sticking to one film. If you are more varied in where and what you shoot, it might be better to have a couple of 'go to' combos.

 

[John Bragg]

I like the continuity and reliability of one developer and one emulsion. HP5+ in HC-110 is my staple diet and I know what it does inside out. I rate it at ei200 and develop in Dilution H and the results are 100% reliable and predictable for my style of shooting. There is a certain freedom that comes from shooting with tried and tested materials in that there is no doubt what the look will be and that look will suit my taste and vision. By all means try what is out there, but when you find what works well, have the confidence to stick with it.

 

[bence8810]

I find it easier to just shoot one film - no variables and no mistakes.

I started with TMAX400 which I shot for about a year then I moved to TriX simply because I was curious to try it and I gave that up quickly for the fact it curls like there's no tomorrow.

Since then I only shoot Eastman 5222 and have been at it for 90 rolls now and have another 150 in the fridge. Couldn't be happier.

For MF I shoot only Tmax100 and it would amount to 5% of my total photography.

Double X I develop in Rodinal and Tmax100 in TMAX Developer.

Ben