Might Try darkroom priniting

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scottyb70

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I have been researching the internet and there are so many options on starting a darkroom. I don't want to get too involved but want to purchase good equipment just in case I like it.

On craigslist there is a Beseler 67cs with accessories for 120.00 us, a vivitar vi for 225 in box and a Omega chromega 4x5 for 150. I don't know which on is the better? I can' seem to find any reviews on enlargers.

I like to do B & W first then move to color. I like using 120 and 35mm films.

I just ordered some film developers that I think will also work for the paper. I have hc110, rodinal, formulary pmk pyro, rollei rls. I think I can use the hc110 and rodinal for paper.

Is there a basic paper/film/film developer, stop and fixer combo that I could try to get me started?

I have ilford, kodak and fuji arcos negatives.
 
In the beginning it is probably best to stick to products from one manufacturer. Kodak in the US, Ilford or Johnson in the UK...
 
Hi,

I suggest to start with RC papers to learn and experiment.
I find all Ilford products (multigrade papers, multigrade developer, ilfostop and rapid fixer) very good.

Have fun !
 
Use whatever paper/chemicals you can get cheaply as it doesn't make too much difference in the end - especially at the learning phase. RC papers to start with though.
 
scottyb70 said:
On craigslist there is a Beseler 67cs with accessories for 120.00 us, a vivitar vi for 225 in box and a Omega chromega 4x5 for 150. I don't know which on is the better? I can' seem to find any reviews on enlargers.

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Click to expand...
I think enlarger reviews have long since been consigned to history - I can't speak for U.S.A but over here, a decent one can almost be had for nothing!, A mint Durst M670 with all the goodies has sat idle on my bench for about three years.....alas - nobody wants to take it away! :(
Dave.
 
My school just put in 25 of these. I had 4 hours last Wednesday to play with one. Delightful!

Dialing in the contrast filter was almost as easy as putting the filter in ... ;)
 
Is there a local school or club that offers a darkroom printing course? That might be a better way to see if you like it. Setting up a lightproofed room can be a significant effort, and it is really helpful to have guidance from someone with experience when starting out.
 
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