suggestions for new paper

[omalley]

Well, it looks as though Luminos has finally kicked the can. After using their paper for years, I guess I'll have to find a new one. How disappointing. I usually use 11x14 FB semi-matte. I'm considering trying out Kentmere printing paper. I need a paper that is cool-tone, VC, and has a finish like pearl or semi-matte (I loathe glossy and matte finishes). Please help me with advice. I'd rather not use Kodak Polymax, as it seems unduly expensive.

 

[David A. Goldfarb]

Luminos was rebranding Kentmere papers. Some of the Kentmere papers have been discontinued because the stock was discontinued, but if you liked Luminos, Kentmere would be the obvious place to look next.

 

[jim appleyard]

Yes, Kentmere made the paper, Luminos simply stuck their label on the box. If I'm not mistaken, Freestyle will handle the Kentmere papers.

If you want cool-tone, I think Ilford makes one.

 

[Peter Schrager]

Paper

Mr. Omalley-you know what I'd do if I was searching for a new paper? I'd march myself down to B+H and buy as many different papers as I could carry home that day. Then I'd go into the darkroom and try to make print(s) with everyone of them. I've actualy done this. Only you can make the decision which paper suits your mood. Polymax is an extremely underated paper. It might cost more than the luminos you were using but if you never TRY it how are you going to know? That's why it's ANALOG photography. You actually get to SEE what works. People that always take the lazy way out and rely on so and so's recommendation are going through life with one eye open. Besides; welcome to the changing situation with our materials. If you find something you like think about buying a freezer!! I think Kentmere is also available at B+H.
Regards, Peter

 

[omalley]

Wow, I had no idea that Luminos was just repackaging someone else's paper. How strange.

 

[fschifano]

Wow, I had no idea that Luminos was just repackaging someone else's paper. How strange.

Actually, not strange at all. It goes on all the time. Freestyle had repackaged Forte papers as their Arista.edu brand. With a new line coming out soon, their house brand will be repackaged something else. Adorama has a house brand of paper that's rumored to be rebranded Ilford, but I don't think that runor is true. I'm certain that someone made it for them and is probably sold under several different brands. These outfits are retailers, not manufacturers.

I'll second that vote for Kodak's papers. Good stuff, but a bit more pricey than some of the other offerings out there. Good strong blacks along with good separation in the shadow areas while still holding detail in the highligts are this paper's real strengths.

 

[Phillip P. Dimor]

I was an Ilford paper guy for years until I purchased a 500ft roll of either Kodak Polymax or Polycontrast (the latest incantations of which one, I can't remember and am away from the darkroom) and was floored once I managed to get used to it.

I really liked Oriental FB and Forte FB Glossy as well.. Would love to try Forte's warmtone FB but have only tried Ilfords warmtone RC (which is nice but tones not so well)

 

[jcausey]

Let me also jump onto the Kodak paper bandwagon.

Every now and again when I'm feeling chintzy I buy other papers, but none of them make me happy like Kodak Polymax.

 

[titrisol]

AGFA is my choice