Jumped in head first

[Gary A.]

^5

I develop and scan. So much easier with so much additional control over the edits. But you're after the experience not just the final image ... but scanning is so much easier than printing.

 

[binga63]

[
I'll be developing film myself...SNIP>>> the only thing missing are tanks that will fit 4x5...thinking of the dip method to develop.

If you Google around, you'll find references to rubber band devloping method, or cylinder developing, for developing 4x5 inch sheet film inside of a standard 120 rollfilm or 35mm rollfilm tank. developing 4x5 sheet film in 120 roll-film tank

I have also heard of a way of developing sheet films being called "the taco method".

A number of people have resorted to making their own PVC pipe cylinders for developing sheet film, and using these cylinders inside of regular "daylight" type steel or plastic developing tanks, which sounds like a good way to soup sheet film.

I was lucky that my area has one of the oldest continuously operated film-based camera and photo stores in the state, and I was able to get a new old stock sheet film developing tank, the type that uses the rectangular, metal "hangers".

I haven't decided how I'm going to develop as yet, there are sooooo many varied ways of doing it, it will be based on cost and cleanliness ..... I'm looking at a 4x5 enlarger but I'm not sure if it is G.A.S. or if it's a bargain needing a new home...Omega Universal Photo Enlarger D5500 4x5 $400. It's hard not to be caught up in the romance of film....

Can't believe it cheaper to buy the film in the US!! As to chemicals you could always make your own eg caffenol

here is a snapshot of B&H USA compared to Michaels Camera House Australia....Ilford HP5 $89.95 AUD vs $32.95 USD given the current exchange rate including shipping $60 AUD....so yes I'll be buying from the states