Time To take The Plunge

Andysnap

Andysnap

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Andy Grant
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OK, I know that these questions have been asked before and I know that there is a 'how to thread' (which I shall read thoroughly before I start) and I know that I have had a couple of practice runs in the Uni darkroom courtesy of Rob Hooley but I just need some reassurance and some general advice.

Firstly, I intend to buy the AP starter kit from AG Photo as it seems to have everything in it and is a reasonable price but is there anything else that I really need?

Secondly, there are a fair few different chemicals out there so are there any I should be thinking of getting that are a good all around bet for the hard of thinking?

Ta very glad

Andy
 
Don't know about the ag pack but I replaced the plastic measuring beakers from my paterson kit with jug type ones as I find them much easier to use.

As for chemicals, there's loads! Everyone has their favourites. I started with rodinal which I love for stand development but not for much else. I mostly use d76 1+1 as I mostly shoot 400 speed film and I have got boss results with it. I plan on trying xtol next though as I am very contrary!
 
Andy,

where abouts in Cheshire are you. I could help you out and test some chemicals with you if you want?

Mart
 
My mistakes were:

Mixing chemicals at room temp. Needs to be the temperature on the box!
Tap your canister! Otherwise you get little spots on your negatives.
Don't use Fomapan. Ever. Just don't. So curly.
 
Andy, if you fancy another run through as a refresher, drop me a PM and we can sort something out. :thumbs:
 
Andy, take the plunge!

A liquid developer might be an easier starting point, but in many respects it might be more about just buying one of the big name classic Developers and having a go. You can refine your choice over time.

I used a HP5 and ID11 combo for years but have recently moved to using Perceptol (which comes as a powder), it has rekindled my love of HP5, others will I am sure offer other options but as I say just getting something and taking the plunge might be the best way forward.
 
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use hp5 in id 11 ,,,you cant go wrong and will have ansel adams like prints hanging from your wall in no time

go Andy,,,,,,go Andy,,,,,,,,,,,go Andy
 
Plunge deeper Andy and go Tetenal C-41 kit!!!!:D :D :D

Good to hear you're joining the "dev sniffing club"...it's the only way to remain reasonably sane in f&c :D

As for chems, like has already been said, there's lots to choose from and it comes down to personal preference over time tbh.

I've used Ilfords LC29 and Rodinal both of which offer good results, however I've recently picked up a bottle of HC-110 to experiment with.

They all have slightly different properties offering slightly different results but of course there are so many variables depending on film, time, temperature etc etc.

My advice, pick up something that is popular....D76, Rodinal, ID11 or whatever and simply have a play ...then go from there.

Enjoy and be sure to let us know how you go on!
 
Thanks for all the replies folks, I'm feeling a lot happier about it now, just need to get the kit sorted.

Mart, I'm in Crewe. I'd love to meet up sometime, I'll be in touch.

Rob, I'm definitely up for a refresher. I'll PM you later.

Cheers

Andy
 
Once you've started, you'll wonder why it took you so long to do it, as the process is trivial and rewarding, not to mention quite frugal.
 
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