For example in portraiture dark lipstick is recommended for better separation of the mouth, if it's called for. Exceedingly sharp pictorial results can be achieved without going to large format. In support of large format, recent developments in optics have produced extremely wide angle lenses for 4x5 format. High quality optics are a must for that type of work. To process roll film, load film onto reels in total darkness.
Sheet film requires tray processing for more even development.
Because the layer is so thin, completion of development is rapid. Therefore the first minute of development is the most critical. The edge effect is responsible for higher acutance and is exaggerated with less agitation intervals, or no agitation at all, but then you risk uneven development. Eastman Kodak's No. P-255 publication is extremely helpful. I have found their Technidol Liquid , using their recommendations to give the most speed with the smoothest grain pattern.