With the price of film going up and almost constant unexplained processing issues I am looking to make the shift to digital negs at least part time. Processing problems come with 8x10 and 5x7 film. 4x5 never caused a problem.
For those of you doing them what is needed to start? I have a MAC mini and an older MAC Book. Inherited an Epson printer, 2200 I think. A Nikon DSLR as well as access to a scanner.
COntact printing in carbon is the goal.
You are pretty good to go if your 2200 is in good shape. You may wish to swap all of the inks with Cone color inks and refillable carts to save money for the long term.
Aristo/Inkpress transparency will also help reduce consumable cost. Learn how to use QTR and limit your software expense to $50. This is also a great investment for making great hi-quality ink jet prints with your 2200.
If you choose QTR then if possible run the Windows version on your Mac, the interface is much superior and easier to interface the RIP, at least for the begginer and probably for the experienced user.
I will also recommend that you consider purchasing some inexpensive RC ink jet paper like the Costco-Kirkland/Ilford paper for creating digi-negs to make gelatin silver prints. Start with some affordable paper from Freestyle and you will enable your self to learn the technology and techniques in an affordable manner.
Search the archives here for posts by Ron Reeder and Clay Harmon for info relating to how to use QTR.
Don't be afraid to ask questions, even the most basic ones. This stuff can be pretty opaque to begin with.
If you want to scan your sheet film look for an Epson flat bed like the 4990, V700, V750 but even the older 2400/3200s can be used if your negs aren't too dense. Used 2400/3200 can be purchased for about $50 used. You will also need a flatbed scanner to build your curves for digi-negs.
Join Sandy Kings Yahoo group for information covering Carbon printing as he has now left the building and only posts there.
Good luck,
Don Bryant
