Hi, I hope that you can give me some info. on how to learn to do basic picture developing at home. What I need, where to get it and basic costs. My family takes alot of pictures and it is getting increasing costly to take them in for commercial developing, I would like to try my hand at it if it is not a major undertaking. Thank-you you for your time and consideration in reading this e-mail. I hope to hear from you. Sharon M. Plasterer

-- Sharon M. Plasterer (pendragon@inernet.net), July 22, 2001

Answers

You didn't specify whether you were talking about color or b&w, but I'll make the assumption that you are part of the 98% of picture takers that are taking color prints. That said, you will find that if your reason for wanting to print your own pictures is to save money, what you spend on decent equipment and chemicals/paper will cost you far more than what you spend to have many many rolls of color print film developed and printed through your local Wal-Mart/K- Mart. You will also find that the time involved in printing many rolls of film is prohibitive, even after you become experienced at it. However, if you want to have a go at it, plan on spending at least $500 for the basic equipment needed (second-hand). I suggest a book on photography/darkroom from your local library, in lieu of trying to capture this much information in this forum. Most basic books with chapters on home darkrooms will tell you everything you need to get started. In my opinion, personal darkrooms are great for expressive photography, both color and b&w, but generally don't work from an economic perspective.

-- Larry Rudy (ljrgcr@cetlink.net), July 22, 2001.

I agree with Larry - you are not going to save any money doing your own. You might also want to consider the digital route since you apparently already have a computer.

chris

-- Christian Harkness (chris.harkness@eudoramail.com), July 22, 2001.