RC Paper of Choice

[aaronmichael]

I know this has been discussed on the forum before but I have a particular situation in which it applies. I've been using leftover RC paper (Ilford MGIV RC Satin) for film in my pinhole camera and then more recently for solargraphy experiments, but I'm almost out. In the intermediate class I'm taking next semester we're using fiber based paper. I'm pretty sure I'm going to buy ortho-litho film for my pinhole cameras but I would still need some RC paper for solargraphy. And I would possibly use it in my pinhole cameras when I didn't feel like making enlargements with film. This brings up the question, is there another (cheaper (but possibly better)) brand rather than Ilford that would be a good choice for using RC paper simply for paper negatives and solargraphy? I've read online that Adox is a good choice. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Slixtiesix]

As you do not need a multigrade paper for in-camera exposure, I would recommend Fomabrom. Pretty cheap. Adox is also worth a try. However, Ilford does offer a new direct positive paper now, maybe it would also suit your purpose.

 

[Schlapp]

Silverprint proof. Cheap as chips

 

[R gould]

For your pinholes Ilford direct/positive, purpose made for the job, other than than try the foma RC papers, very cheap and excelent quality, or for pinhole just use whatever is the cheapest, in the UK try Silverprint Proof, the cheapest stuff around, or you could try Kentmere RC, as good as the Ilford but about half the price,Richard

 

[aaronmichael]

Thanks for the replies. I'll check out the Ilford direct positive, Adox, Fomabrom, and Kentmere. Unfortunately I don't live in the UK so I'm thinking the shipping for the Silverprint Proof would outweigh the cost savings on it.

 

[Nicholas Lindan]

Get the cheapest Freestyle has to offer. Also don't neglect picking up surplus paper on ebay.

 

[bdial]

Since you are within driving distance of Freesyle, their Arista line has always been a great value for paper and film. They also carry most all of the other brands you'll see mentioned.

 

[MattKing]

Watch out for back-printing. I don't know if any current paper has it, but some of the old Kodak papers did.

 

[PiGraf]

How would you compare the Arista papers to Ilford? I have been using Ilford IV RC Pearl paper and am thinking of trying Arista Ultra VCRD Pearl.