What paper?

[MartinCrabtree]

I'll be taking a course in darkroom soon. I've printed but that was over 30 years ago and I feel a little guidance would help a bit. I must supply my own paper so the question is what would be an inexpensive easy paper to use for beginning? I would imagine a few mistakes will be made so forgiveness and low cost would be primary factors.

 

[jp498]

rc glossy multigrade from ilford/seagull/arista/foma

 

[Nathan Riehl]

rc glossy multigrade from ilford/seagull/arista/foma

I used Ilford of this variety, I believe. When I took my class in black and white, at least. I found that Ilford has packs of 25 pieces of paper and 2 rolls of HP5+ all bundled together at my local photography store.

 

[jovo]

The Arista.edu papers are specifically intended for use by those learning to print. Here:

http://www.freestylephoto.biz/category/7-Paper/Black-and-White-Paper?mfg[]=211&attr[]=8-129&attr[]=7-29

 

[MartinCrabtree]

Thanks Jovo. That's what I was seeking. I love glossy B&W is there any reason not to use it?

 

[jovo]

Thanks Jovo. That's what I was seeking. I love glossy B&W is there any reason not to use it?

At this point, use whatever you like best. As you progress, you may find another 'look' you prefer, but for now glossy is fine.

 

[Jeff Kubach]

You might try RC pearl. Also look up Freestyle for good prices.

Jeff

 

[Rick A]

I'm with Jeff on Pearl surface, RC glossy is soooo plast(icky) looking. I do love FB glossy though.

 

[jim appleyard]

the cheapest paper I've found is at Ultrafineonline.com. It's not great paper, but good for students to learn on.

 

[TheFlyingCamera]

Another vote for the Arista.EDU papers, and a second on avoiding glossy RC paper because it looks like a piece of plastic (which in fact it is). Get your feet wet with RC, but as soon as you feel some confidence in your work, switch to fiber paper. After you make your first good prints on fiber, you'll never go back, but fiber paper isn't as cheap as RC and it has additional quirks of handling that will make you feel the pain of your mistakes all the more deeply.