Response to I want to start taking pictures, preferably black and white, where should I start?

There are already many good replies to your question and I agree with them all. One thing to also keep in mind is that most of the really great well-known B&W images are done from large format negatives (4x5 or larger). If you are on budget and need to use 35mm film like me, you will soon find out that with 35 mm it is possible to get very good images enlarged to 8x10 or even slightly larger but it is not realistic to compare your images made from 35mm negatives to images made from an 8x10 negative. The tonal range with 35 mm is just not as good no matter what film or camera or lens you use. I say this to keep things in perspective and prevent disappointment and unrealistic expectations. Having said this, if you learn good darkroom technique (which I'm still mastering), you can get some pretty satisfying B&W results from 35mm and not have to spend a fortune to do it. Have fun.

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