Step 1 is over

Well, the rest of my starter outfit is on eBay. (dpconsult.com)
Taking on 8x10 was an interesting experiment. I learned some things.

1. The film handling (carrying & processing) was the big change from
4x5.
At least for me. The rest of the equipment was certainly bigger but
really
not much more hassle than 4x5.

2. Processing for the negs I like was limited by the film types
available.
I always liked Plus-X in 135 and my favorite 4x5 neg is Plus-X.
(Ya, it's not perfect but it makes me happy)
I just can't find plus-x for 8x10. Focus has it listed, but with a
long order delay.

3. Print 8x10 contacts requires the same, as needed, dodging and
burning that I'd do when enlarging. But it's a bit more difficult as
it's harder to see the exact areas to dodge. (Might 11x14 might
actually be easier in this regard??)

4. A good 4x5 neg still provides a very nice 11x14 print with a lot
less expense than getting an 11x14 from 8x10. (Enlarging to 11x14 as
my standard size makes me want to just to pick up an old RB and not
worry about 4x5 -- it's hard to tell the diff @ that size.)

Anyway, that's my blog for the week.

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