Two common developers for black and white film are D-76 and HC-110 by Kodak. You may also want to try T-MAX developer if you shoot T-MAX films. They will all accomplish the same thing. My preference is the HC-110 developer with Tri-X film. Read the directions on how to dilute it - you do not want to use it full strength! Normal dilution for HC-110 is known as Dilution B.

Download a chart for the processing times for your film and developers here.

You will need an accurate measuring cup to mix the developer and a thermometer to check its temperature. The developer should be at cool 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 C) for most films. A higher temperature can be used if you shorten the development time, but don't go under 5 minutes. Most films require about 6-7 minutes of processing time at 68 degrees. To change the temperature of the agent, set it in a sink full of water either hotter or cooler (depending on which direction the temp needs to go). Be sure not to let any water get into the developer.

After mixing the developer and getting it to the right temperature you can mix up the fixer. Fixer can come in powder or liquid form. If you chose the powder mix it with hot water and cool it down using the cold water in the sink method.