hey. another newbie

[jisk8]

Hi.I have been looking for photography for some time and I was already into it, I always take pictures of skateboarding.I still prefer the 35 mm with the manual zoom than the digital.I want to make my own pictures in black/white.I think I will buy that book to start :The Darkroom Cookbook , Stephen G. Anchell . Can someone tell me about how much it can cost me to start just with the basic chemicals?

Thanks

 

[Kevin Caulfield]

Welcome. I'd suggest that a much easier start would be to buy premixed chemicals, rather than trying to mix your own recipes. There are several good sources for the basic information you need. One good one is the Ilford site, and they are an APUG sponsor. You can always get into mixing things up later once you know the basics.

 

[johnnywalker]

Welcome!
The Darkroom Cookbook is basically about making your own chemicals. You might want to start with bought chemicals instead, until you get the hang of the process. I would look for a more basic darkroom book - I think Kodak published one in the past. The Ilford site I think also has the basic methodology. There are lots of people here who know much more than I do who I'm sure will chime in with some more concrete suggestions. Looking around used bookstores for a basic darkroom manual would be a good place to start, or the library.
In any case, the basics of darkroom work aren't hard or complicated, but after the basics it's a never-ending learning curve - for me anyway.

 

[singram]

Get this book:
"Black and White Photography: A Basic Manual by Henry Horenstein," Third Revised Edition

I teach a traditional black and white photo class on the college level and we use this book in class. It is a really good book at a really good price (20 bucks) from Amazon or Freestyle and many other places.

This is the perfect time to get into black and white film and printing, since there are so many choices in new and used equipment. It is far cheaper than buying a digital camera and computer and it won't be outdated in two years!

Plus developing and printing your own photographs is one of the most self satisfying things you will ever accomplish. Good Luck!

Steve

 

[jisk8]

Thanks for the reply, I think I will start with pre mixed chemical beacause it is probably more easy and I want to learn the process. I'm still looking forward to make my own chemical.

 

[Black Dog]

See also 'The Darkroom Handbook' by Michael Langford and 'John Blakemore's Black And White Photography Workshop'.