Hey Raffay,
Use what you can. When I first got started in LF a few years ago, I went the "cheap" route. Boy, what a load of rubbish that was. In the past year I've tossed out/given away all my "cheap" films, since I want to make photographs, and not futz with "this and that"... I just want to make pictures. Being in the USA, I have more "options" at my disposal, but frankly, I'd recommend Kodak, Fuji or Ilford for b/w before anyone else. Kodak being MY favorite. Ya, it ain't "cheap" anymore, but neither is food(for the most part), gas, utilities, etc... Everything is more expensive now. MAKE EVERY FRAME COUNT. Use your brain to check yourself/your equipment before tripping that shutter. LF will MAKE YOU MORE METHODICAL!
X-ray film has gained popularity lately, I'm guessing b/c it's cheap to acquire(at least here in the USA). Personally, the "spray and pray" method towards LF photography is the antithesis of it all. Use (1) frame, maybe 2. Wait. Be patient, be ready
. Using more expensive(and probably higher quality) film thats DESIGNED for photographic use first-and-foremost will deliver repeatable, quality results all the time.
I've never used D-23, but I know that "The Negative"(Ansel Adams) references it regulary. DIY developer is fine, but I'd stick with something SIMPLE TO MIX, AND SIMPLE TO USE, at least until you have your feet "soaked"(with experience)
Hence my mention of HC-110(or D-76). There are lots of DIY developers you can make that are very simple to use. However, getting the raw materials might prove to be a little bit harder, especially since you're in Pakistan? Just a thought, not sure. You live there, I don't
Anyhow, keep the "K.I.S.S."("
Keep-
It-
Simple-
Stupid") method close to heart as you progress
. It doesn't have to be complex to be good. Simple is usually the best way!
-Dan
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