Andy, jump in with both feet and just do it. Put the drive into your mind, and never give up.
You don't need to enlarge the print yourself. There are plenty of good labs that can make huge prints for you. You just need to supply the negative.
The 4x5 negative has the most cameras, films and accessories for it. I have seen 30x40 prints from 4x5 negatives, and heck, I even saw a 6x8, Ilford 3200 to boot, enlarged at that size look excellent.
It isn't difficult to develop film yourself. If you don't do it, then there are a number of labs which do a lot of mail order business. The process is to "soup" the film in a succession of three chemicals, and then you're done. It's quick and easy.
For a 4x5 negative, you can get the HP CombiPlan tank for daylight development. This means you don't have to have a dedicated darkroom, just a large changing bag to load the film into the tank. Me, I blacked out my bathroom and develop in there. I use both trays and a Jobo processor.
First, get a camera and a lens. High quality cameras and lenses can be purchased for not much money at all. Even what is regarded as "bottom of the barrel" can produced absolutely stunning results. I have a Graflex Super Graphic, and the 135mm Optar lens can resolve bicycle spokes at two blocks. Years ago this package cost me $500, and I've seen them for less. A Calumet Orbit is a very cheap view camera, and Ansel Adams did in fact use one. Put a decent lens on it and go to work, no problem.
If you want instant feedback, you can use Fuji instant films. The PA-45 holder is currently available for $200, and the film packs cost $25 or so. The packs can also be used in the Polaroid 550 holder.
You'll need at least a couple of film holders, a changing bag, and a light meter. Oh, yes, and a good tripod.
Enjoy!
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