I'd like to start doing my own printing...equipment suggestions?

[SixSeven]

I've been doing my own B&W development for a couple of months now, admittedly I don't have much experience at it. Well, I'm already tired of driving to a lab and having them scanned, so I'd like to start doing traditional prints.

I'm shooting 6x7. I'd like to print in the 16x20 range most of the time.

Most of the searching I've done turns up technique-related articles, but I haven't been able to find a good source of info for the actual equipment I need for 6x7. Lots of stuff on 35mm.

Example, what focal length lens (lenses?) do I need for the given negative size and print size? Where is a good place to get a used enlarger aside from the usual craigslist route? I know darkroom equipment is going for less than pennies on the dollar so obviously I would be stupid to buy new (right?). If someone can give a list of the basic equipment they are using for 6x7 I would appreciate it.

Thanks,

Nick

 

[tj01]

1. Focal length - something like 80mm, but 105mm is also ok for 6X7 to print your 16X20 size ( which is quite big actually ).
2. While it's quite hard to give any recommendations of what model/make that will best suite your requirements, I think the big names will go no harm. More importantly, those 'less than pennies on the dollar' type should have all the necessary accessories when you buy yours. This includes important components like lensboard, negative carrier, condenser(or diffuser) and light bulb.

 

[PMCC]

For 6x7 I use an Omega 2V with an 80mm EL-Nikkor. It covers. As for pennies on the dollar, many a mickle makes a muckle, as the old lady used to say, so try to get the whole enchilada in one fell swoop.

 

[shimokita]

I picked up a book titled: "Black and White Printing - The Complete Guide to Effective Darkroom Techniques" by Geroge Schaub at a second hand shop for like US 1.00. He identifies all the equipment needed and goes thru the basics, paper selection etc. Seems that he was teaching at the New School in NYCity.

You might be interested in the chapter on setting up a darkroom that addresses some of your questions. It's not rocket science, but he covers all the basics... There are other publications for sure...

Casey