Might Try darkroom priniting

[scottyb70]

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.

 

[payasam]

In the beginning it is probably best to stick to products from one manufacturer. Kodak in the US, Ilford or Johnson in the UK...

 

[Henk]

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 !

 

[Schlapp]

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.

 

[Dave Wilkinson]

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 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.

 

[Chris101]

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 ... 😉

 

[robklurfield]

very cool. where do you teach and at what level??? have fun.

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 ... 😉

 

[ChrisN]

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.

 

[Mauros]

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! 🙁

I can pick it up, no problem. Deal?

 

[Dave Wilkinson]

I can pick it up, no problem. Deal?

PM sent.
Dave.