Re: Need Advice on B&W films

[wilcox@umcc.umich.edu (Ken Wilcox)]

All IMHO of course...
>
>1) Which is the best slow film? Tech Pan, Agfa Pan 25 or anything else?

Ilford PanF
>
>2) Which is the best medium speed film (100 ASA)? Is it T-Max 100, Ilford
>Delta 100, Plus X or anything else?

Ilford FP4+
>
>3) Which is the best fast speed film (400+ ASA)? Tri-X? Whab about C-41
>T-Max400CN?

Tri-X
>
>I want to able to use one each from the above three and then stick with
>those, so that I can learn them. In each case I am looking for the best in
>sharpness, good contrast, fine grain and not too difficult development.
>
>4) I hope to buy film in bulk. Is it easy to load myself?
>
Yes

>5) Will I need three different bulk loaders if I am using three different
>films? Or can one just easily change the film in a loader?
>
A loader isn't required although it can make things easier. You can change
films mid-roll without a problem if you do use one.

>6) Does one need to keep B&W film refrigerated?

I freeze mine as a matter of practice.
>
>7) How long will unexposed B&W film last with or without refrigeration?

Several years with reasonable storage conditions.
>
>8) I have seen that all bulk loaders are for 100 ft rolls of film. But
>Tech Pan is available in only 150 ft rolls. So how does one get around
>that problem?
>
Not a problem.

>9) Which developers are better powder or liquid?
>
Liquid or powder is not the best criteria, but liquids are cleaner to mix
(no dust) and can be prepared in any quantity easily.

>10) Do developers and other chemicals need to be refrigerated?

No, but keep the bottles full by replacing used liquid with marbles to help
minimize oxidiation.
>
>11) How long do they last?
>
Varies with type and concentration. Edwal FG7 concentrate will last for YEARS!

Cheers!

kw


- ----
Ken Wilcox                                Carolyn's Personal Touch Portraits
Davison Middle School                  preferred---> <wilcox@umcc.umich.edu>
600 Dayton, Davison, MI 48423
<kwilcox@genesee.freenet.org>