For a first medium-format setup, start simple: camera, lens, film, and a basic developing workflow.

The easiest path is black-and-white. Home B&W processing is much simpler than color: fewer chemicals, room-temperature processing, and much easier printing. B&W paper can be handled under a safelight; color printing usually requires complete darkness plus tighter time/temperature control.

If you want to print at home, you’ll need an enlarger that handles medium format, trays/tanks, chemistry, and paper. A common beginner-friendly choice is multigrade/polycontrast B&W paper plus a set of contrast filters. Some enlargers have filters built in; others take them below the lens or in a filter drawer.

If you mainly want to explore film without building a full darkroom immediately, consider shooting slide or other film and scanning it with a good film scanner. That gives you the film look while keeping a digital workflow.

Used darkroom gear is often inexpensive, so a second-hand enlarger and accessories can be a practical way to start. In short: begin with B&W film and B&W printing or scanning, then move to color later if you enjoy the process.