Returning to darkroom, could use paper and developer suggestions

I last developed my own B&W prints over 10 years ago while in college. Back then, we used some sort of Kodak RC paper and T-Max developer (I think). While that worked, I'd like to try something different like FB paper. Based on what I've read and seen, I think I'd like the results.

My preferences for prints lean towards warm tones with moderate contrast. I like the look of Ilford's Pearl RC papers based on the test prints at the local photography shop. If I understand correctly, drying FB glossy prints "face up" will result in a similar finish. I'll be drying either by hanging or on a screen. I do not have access to presses or other mechanisms other than a standard household iron to flatten the print. I plan to use 5x7 for test prints and 8x10 for final prints deemed worthy of displaying at home. I'm not too concerned with price since this isn't a high volume hobby, but I still like to keep it reasonable.

My local shop carries Kodak and Ilford products. I'd like to avoid mail ordering supplies for the time being.

I know it's a difficult request, but I am a bit overwhelmed by the choices and would like some guidance to get me started.

Thanks,
Chris

Get the Ilford papers. Ilford MG RC or FB is great.
If you can also get a small "envelope" of the Warmtone version (brugundy envelopes)

As per developer for paper, see if they have Ethol LPD

I'm aware that you are currently opposed to mail ordering supplies and that cost is not a paramount concern, but if that should change I have a suggestion. I've been using Adorama's house brand of papers for a while now and find them to be an excellent value. The warm tone FB paper especially impressed me the first time I used it and continues to be a favorite. They have a reasonably good selection, but nothing too fancy. It's worth a look.

I did some research on the Ethol LPD. It sounds quite interesting. I like how simply changing the dilution can change the tone of the print.

I've heard good things about Adorama's papers. At the moment, they're backordered on the papers I'd use. I'll definately keep them in mind though.

Chris

I personally never got the kind of blacks I wanted with LPD. (Just my opinion) There's nothing wrong with good old Dektol, and I think Ilford Multi FB is one of the best papers around. Both are easy to come by, and are proven workhorses. If you're out of practice, it helps to keep things simple and consistent.

LPD is really versatile, have not tried it as film developer yet though.
With the neutral Ilford paper, altering the dilution doesn;t do any good first, but later if you decide to try toning the image it maybe beneficial.

Fresstyle paper is rebranded Ilford or Foma or Forte or????
So should the Adorama.

My local store carries a rebranded Ilford that I love to buy because is a lot cheaper.

mtnbkr said:

I did some research on the Ethol LPD. It sounds quite interesting. I like how simply changing the dilution can change the tone of the print.

Chris

Click to expand...

Dektol is great but at Ohio State University when I worked there, we used hundreds of gallons of Ethol LPD in the student labs and it was fantastic! You are right, just by changing dilution, you could change the basic tone of the print from warm to cool.

Smells interesting too!

I use it at 1:4. I just leave the tray out all weekend without any problem. It is fairly economical too.

mtnbkr said:

I did some research on the Ethol LPD. It sounds quite interesting. I like how simply changing the dilution can change the tone of the print.

Click to expand...