Digital BW, The Print

>For those of you using film, scanning and printing B&W, what is your
>favorite film and why?

slower films:  Ilford FP4 and Delta 100

I prefer Delta 100 for landscapes, and for most of my daytime shots.  The 
sharpness and its expansion of middle tones works well with what I like to 
shoot.  I use FP4 a lot for night time photography.  I just ordered bulk 
rolls of each and will be doing more and more playing around with them now 
that I've committed to them.  I use both in 35mm format, FP4 only in 120 
(cheaper for now to stick with just 1).

I develop both just in ID-11 for the time being, though I am playing with 
Rodinal for the FP4 as well.  For night shots, I've had some stunning 
results with Perceptol on the 2 times I've used it with FP4.

Medium speeds:  Tri-X

I like the contrasty look of Tri-X vs., say, what I've gotten with 
HP5.  The grain structure and other characteristics just look right to 
me.  That, plus it's become a very versatile film for me.  I use it 
anywhere from EI 250-320 in ID-11, and up to 1600 in straight 
Microphen.  I'm actually still trying to pin down a time for EI 800.  I use 
this in both 35mm and 120 formats.

High speeds:  Delta 3200

yes, it's grainy, but I like the look.  If I need more than 1600 speed, 
I'll use this film.  I've rated it from 1600 to 6400 in somewhat limited 
use so far and have had good success with it.  I don't really need this 
speed in 120 so I am currently only shooting it in 35mm formats.

allan

ps-I'm going to leave the debate on desaturating, etc, to others...

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